John Lee meets President of Supreme People's Court, pledge boosting HK role as global legal hub

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu affirmed his commitment to enhancing Hong Kong's position as a leading international center for legal and dispute resolution services during a high-profile meeting with Zhang Jun, President of China's Supreme People's Court (SPC), held at Government House on Tuesday, October 14th.

Lee expressed his appreciation for the SPC's ongoing support, which he emphasized has been essential for the Hong Kong Department of Justice. This support includes the establishment of comprehensive mutual legal assistance mechanisms between Hong Kong and mainland China in civil and commercial affairs.

A central topic of discussion was the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Lee emphasized the creation of a permanent platform to facilitate judicial and legal cooperation within the region.

Lee further noted that significant provisions allowing Hong Kong-invested companies to utilize Hong Kong law and choose Hong Kong as the location for arbitration proceedings have been integrated into the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement. He stated that this reflects the central government's strong commitment to and support for Hong Kong's legal framework.

"Hong Kong will continue to capitalize on its unique strengths," Lee stated, referring to the city's internationally recognized common law system and its robust dispute resolution offerings. His goal is to solidify Hong Kong's role as a bidirectional platform, both for companies expanding their operations globally and for attracting foreign investment.

Lee also underscored the significance of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) establishing its headquarters in Hong Kong, adding that the city would support IOMed in delivering adaptable and effective mediation services to reinforce Hong Kong's standing as a premier hub for international legal services.

Also present at the meeting were Deng Xiuming, Executive Vice-president of the SPC, Mao Zhonghua, Vice-president, and Hong Kong's Secretary for Justice, Paul Lam Ting-kwok.