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Long weekend read: Hong Kong’s first female chief executive

(para. 1) To mark Caixin’s 15th anniversary, a series of interviews with influential figures in China are being republished, reflecting on important modern issues such as climate change and the China-US technology battle. (para. 2) A revival of Carrie Lam, Hong Kong’s former chief executive, shows her unassuming presence in a museum exhibition. Lam blending into the crowd symbolizes her discreet post-leadership life since stepping down on June 30, 2022. (para. 3) Carrie Lam was Hong Kong’s first female chief executive and was known for her pragmatic approach and public trust at the start of her term from July 1, 2017. Despite a large budget surplus, she was aware of the social divisions in the region and saw early signs of challenges during her leadership. (para. 4) During her tenure, Hong Kong faced numerous challenges, resulting in Lam focusing solely on her duties as the city faced political and social unrest. (para. 5) Her role proved to be one of the most difficult in the world. Lam has been deeply involved in managing Hong Kong’s pandemic response, leading daily briefings and steering the post-pandemic recovery. (para. 6) Nicknamed the “good fighter,” Lam was both praised and criticized for his determination. After her resignation, she opted for a secluded family life, but remained visible locally. (para. 7) Since 1997, five chief executives, including Lam, have been involved in addressing complex political and social issues in Hong Kong as geopolitical challenges persist, forcing Hong Kong to further negotiate its way forward amid these tensions. (para. 8) Hong Kong’s traditional economic model is facing a challenge as the country seeks reforms to diversify its economy and uphold the “one country, two systems” principle that is crucial to high-quality growth. (para. 9) Finance Minister Paul Chan cited efforts to boost short-term tourism and consumer spending while attracting businesses and encouraging innovation to spur future development. (para. 10) In Beijing, Chan received assurances from Xia Baolong of the State Council, who reiterated his support for Hong Kong’s strategic advantages and strengthened its global brand under the motto “One Country, Two Systems.” (para. 11) Looking back on her 2017 interview, Lam outlined her plan for Hong Kong’s industrial transformation and regional cooperation, particularly in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. (para. 12) Before leaving office, Lam emphasized the uniqueness of the “one country, two systems” framework and attributed Hong Kong’s autonomy and mixed governance systems to its complexity and challenges. (para. 13) Lam keeps her promise and advocates for the framework through lectures at major universities. (para. 14) The original interview was published in Caixin Weekly in November 2017 and covered topics such as legal reform for the new economy in Hong Kong. (para. 15) Lam proposed regulatory updates for new economy models that are inconsistent with existing laws and particularly impact the sharing economy, while calling for a government shift toward innovation. (para. 16) Reflecting on President Xi Jinping’s support for “One Country, Two Systems,” Lam reiterated its successful implementation, citing Hong Kong’s unique autonomy and resilience to financial crises. (para. 17) Criticism of Hong Kong’s real estate sector has been addressed by new land supply policies aimed at supporting entrepreneurship through affordable jobs initiatives. (para. 18) The collaboration with Shenzhen highlighted the ambition to develop an international innovation center together with regional partners. (para. 19) Despite a mature public housing system, there remains an urgent need for social housing due to land availability issues and high property prices. (para. 20) Hong Kong’s budget surplus is seen as a resource for infrastructure investment and social support, contradicting recent criticism of the government’s austerity. (para. 21) Significant social investments have been made, although inequality remains a critical issue, and efforts have been made to alleviate poverty and support disadvantaged groups. (para. 22) Social tensions and youth discontent remain and require government solutions and open channels for participation and expression. (para. 23) Lam admitted that her position as Hong Kong’s first female leader did not pose any particular institutional challenges; However, social expectations regarding women-specific measures predominate. (para. 24) The translation of this article was assisted by Lu Zhenhua, and editorial contact was provided by Joshua Dummer.

AI generated, for reference only

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