Swiss delegation begins visit to China, first stop in Hong Kong to deepen cooperation in digital innovation.

On May 10, a delegation of more than 25 representatives from academia and private institutions from Switzerland arrived in Hong Kong to begin a week-long visit to China, spanning Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and Shanghai. The aim of the visit is to promote international partnerships, expand bilateral exchanges, and gain a deeper understanding of the innovation ecosystem in the Greater China region. The Swiss delegation started their visit in Hong Kong, where on May 12, a seminar hosted by the Swiss Digital Security Alliance was held under the theme "Hong Kong - Gateway to China and Asia", focusing on digital transformation, cybersecurity, and cross-border investments in the age of artificial intelligence. During the seminar, Acting Director-General of Invest Hong Kong, Jimmy Choo, highlighted Hong Kong's advantages as conducive for international tech companies to establish and expand their businesses. He stated, "Switzerland is one of the most promising partners for Hong Kong in Europe. The impressive innovation strength of Switzerland in key areas such as life sciences, Shenzhen Kaifa Technology, fintech, education, and creative industries aligns well with our focus areas." He also mentioned, "With the flourishing digital technology and enhanced regulatory framework, Hong Kong is witnessing a new round of international business opportunities. The recent passage of the new computer system security law strengthens the protection of computer systems for critical infrastructure in Hong Kong, allowing businesses to operate in a more secure environment with increased confidence. Furthermore, the launch of the Greater Bay Area standard contract enables companies to securely and efficiently transfer personal data within the Greater Bay Area, promoting cross-border collaboration and facilitating the seamless development of digital services. These developments further consolidate Hong Kong's position as a trusted and forward-looking digital innovation hub, bringing immense opportunities to Swiss and global businesses." Chairman of the Swiss Digital Security Alliance and member of the Swiss Federal Council's Foreign Affairs Committee, Franz Grter, expressed, "We are in Hong Kong not only to showcase Switzerland's strengths in digital innovation, cybersecurity, and education, but also to establish truly sustainable collaborative relationships. As the connection point between the international and Chinese markets, Hong Kong holds great strategic value for Swiss companies, and future cross-border cooperation will drive mutual growth in the digital economy." Abel Cheung, Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO), shared Hong Kong's digital policies and strategies for digital infrastructure and AI ecosystem development at the seminar. He stated, "In the digital age, governance models must keep pace with the times. As an international digital hub, we need not only technological upgrades but also policy innovations. Hong Kong is actively promoting data interoperability, process reengineering, and the introduction of AI and other cutting-edge technologies to provide more convenient and efficient digital services to citizens and businesses." The seminar also featured panel discussions moderated by Violet Chow, Vice President of Information and Communication Technology at Invest Hong Kong, inviting experts from Thales, Swire Coca-Cola, and the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park to delve into cybersecurity challenges in the age of artificial intelligence. Invest Hong Kong will actively follow up and maintain close contacts with relevant organizations and companies such as the Consulate General of Switzerland in Hong Kong and the Swiss Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong to assist Swiss companies in Hong Kong in establishing and expanding their businesses. At the same time, collaboration with relevant departments and organizations such as the OGCIO and the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park will be strengthened to promote the development of Hong Kong's innovation and technology ecosystem. Through cross-departmental and cross-disciplinary cooperation, continued deepening of international exchanges and cooperation, and commitment to enhancing support services for businesses, promoting the application of innovative technologies, and solidifying Hong Kong's leading position as an international innovation hub and smart city.