VRC hosts Panel Discussion at the Science Summit at UNGA78 on Sept 25, 16:00 to 18:30 JST, to discuss UN SDGs and the Value Model
How can purpose, value, and impact measurement serve as a guide for building a post-SDGs model?
At this year’s UN General Assembly Science Summit (SSUNGA78), Prof. Philip Sugai, Director of the Value Research Center (VRC) at Doshisha University, Dr. Victoria Hurth from the Cambridge Institute of Sustainable Leadership (CISL), Dr. Mario Abela from the Value Balancing Alliance (VBA), and Prof. Haruko Satoh from Osaka University’s ESG Integration Research and Education Center (ESG-IREC) will hold individual presentations and a panel discussion about these questions as well as their answers.
The objective of this Science Summit is “to develop and launch science collaborations to demonstrate global science mechanisms and activities to support the attainment of the UN SDGs, Agenda 2030 and Local2030.” This event brings together scientists, academics, government leaders and citizens from around the world to participate in a series of workshops, presentations and discussions.
The 9th annual Science Summit is being held live in New York and online and it is free to attend. This presentation is one of four events hosted by the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) and co-host, the Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations.
“Beyond the wording on corporate websites, beyond the awards and sustainability scores, businesses have clear impacts on their stakeholders,” said Prof. Sugai. “The purpose of this workshop is to go beyond the talk surrounding sustainability issues to arrive at a useful, holistic model that is founded on purpose and offers a goal-based, objective, transparent approach for measuring and accounting for impacts and the value that they create. Not only for the world’s largest corporations in developed economies, but for businesses of all sizes anywhere in the world.”
This workshop will begin with opening remarks from Prof. Toshiya Hoshino, Director of the ESG Integration Research and Education Center (ESG-IREC), OSIPP, Osaka University, followed by individual presentations from:
– Dr. Victoria Hurth, Fellow and Advisory Board Member, Cambridge Institute for Sustainable Leadership (CISL)
– Dr. Mario Abela, Strategic Advisor, Value Balancing Alliance (VBA)
– Prof. Philip Sugai, Director, Value Research Center (VRC), Doshisha University
– Prof. Haruko Satoh, Co-Director, OSIPP-IAFOR Research Centre, Osaka University
This half-day workshop will be held online on, Monday, Sept 25, from 16:00 – 18:30 JST
The Value Research Center (VRC) at Doshisha University in Kyoto, Japan was established in November 2021. Its mission: to develop a practical system, a Value Model, for organizations to measure, monitor, assess and report their impacts on 7 key stakeholders: the organization itself, its shareholders, employees, customers, partners, society, and the planet.
The VRC enhances its Value Model continuously, integrating new frameworks as they are introduced, bringing greater transparency, objectivity and measurability to value creation – in ways we often didn’t see. The VRC Value Model gives government and industry eyes to see impacts they’re actually having, and the ability to fix what’s broken and enhance what they’re doing well. Learn more at www.valueresearchcenter.com
About the ESG-IREC Research Center
The Osaka University Graduate School of International Public Policy – ESG Integration Research and Education Center (ESG-IREC) conducts research on practical implementable “ESG integration” models in corporate and business activities for the creation of a more sustainable future. Visit www.osipp.osaka-u.ac.jp/en/.
Former Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr George Yeo paid tribute to 103-year-old Captain Ho Weng Toh, who he described “as a man with a strong sense of moral purpose”. Captain Ho is one of the last survivors of the “Flying Tigers”, comprising of a group of volunteer American and overseas Chinese pilots who fought against the Japanese in World War II.
Ribbon Cutting Flying Tiger Short Film George Yeo, Philip Von Wulffen, Shervin Pishervar, Ivan Lew Decode Global, Singapore Airlines
More than 100 guests celebrated Captain Ho’s accomplishments at A Last Parade of the Flying Tigers. It also marked the commencement of the production of a short film based on his life, co-sponsored by Decode Group and Singapore’s IMDA.
Decode Group is honoured to sponsor this milestone event, as Captain Ho is an exemplary figure and his spirit of resilience should be remembered for generations. “Sponsoring this event reflects Decode’s dedication to making a positive impact in our community. We believe the short film will allow the younger generation to reflect on Ho’s values and inspire them to continue pursuing their dreams bravely and with pride. For Decode, we affirm our commitment to building a stronger financial future together with our partners and clients,” said Mr. Ivan Lew, CEO of Decode Global Capital.
Captain Quay Chew Eng, former Senior VP of Singapore Airlines, commended that “Captain Ho’s accomplishment contributed immensely to the success of Singapore Airlines. His reputation as the Chief Pilot of the 737 fleet preceded him and he was deeply admired.”
The Flying Tigers are revered in China for their heroic efforts to defend China. “I feel really honoured that Decode and the organisers are letting the people of Singapore know what we have achieved in the past,” acknowledged Captain Ho.
Captain Ho attributed his survival in the war to “tenacity in the face of adversity”. The FamilyOffice Symposium discussed how this value is especially relevant to the private wealth industry today. Mr. George Yeo shared how the financial industry can navigate the future with resilience amidst heightened tensions between nations such as U.S.-China and Russia-Ukraine. He posed some thought-provoking considerations for family offices when making investment decisions. “Does it lead to a positive sum? Does it make human life fuller and more abundant or does it take away from us?”
Speakers at the symposium included international speakers including Mr. Ivan Lew, CEO of Decode Global Capital, Mr. Philip Von Wullfen, co-head of JAB Consumer Fund and Mr. Shervin Pishevar, a super angel investor named by the FORBES Midas List.
The event is co-organised and supported by Decode Group, Grid Synergy, the Family Office Alliance and Singapore Airlines.
About Decode Global
Decode Global is a top-tier global financial services group, founded in 2004 with its headquarters based in Sydney, Australia. We offer a diversified range of financial products, to protect and grow the estates and capital of family offices. To date, Decode Global has served thousands of high net worth clients. In early 2023, the Singapore office was set up to better service clients in Asia and the Middle East.
After a four-year absence due to the pandemic, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) once again organised the annual Hong Kong Dinner in London to celebrate Hong Kong-UK ties and promote business opportunities and growth globally.
Speaking at the Hong Kong Dinner in London, HKTDC Chairman Dr Peter K N Lam said that the HKTDC looks forward to strengthening ties between the UK and Hong Kong business communities in the years ahead.
Hong Kong and the UK have long shared strong bilateral economic and business relations. In spite of the disruptions of the past few years, the partnership remained strong, with the UK becoming Hong Kong’s second-largest trading partner in Europe in 2022.
With this dinner, the HKTDC, also aimed to reaffirm Hong Kong’s position as a leading international finance, business and investment hub and gateway between Mainland China and the UK and beyond.
At the dinner, Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC, delivered his opening remarks to some 400 business leaders from the UK and Hong Kong: “Hong Kong’s fundamental strengths continue to position it as the go-to platform for UK businesses to access the vast China and Asia markets. Hong Kong is a key city in the rapidly growing Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. The HKTDC will continue to help UK businesses succeed in Asia by connecting them with arising opportunities in the region.”
Speaking at the Hong Kong Dinner in London, HKTDC Chairman Dr Peter K N Lam said that the HKTDC looks forward to strengthening ties between the UK and Hong Kong business communities in the years ahead.
The dinner’s guest of honour Mr Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong SAR, remarked: “In the past few years, the business communities in the UK and Hong Kong have faced many global challenges. As Peter noted, our bilateral trade is solid. And we’re still home to more than 650 UK companies and thousands of UK expats – most, if not all, of them happy that business, and rugby, are back in Hong Kong. That, I’d say, speaks well of our traditionally strong cultural ties and long-standing people-to-people bonds.”
Mr. Paul Chan, the Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong SAR, welcomed UK businesses, consultants, and professionals to participate in the infrastructure development of the Northern Metropolis and a large-scale reclamation project at Kau Yi Chau.
Mr. Chan reiterated that Hong Kong’s singular one country, two systems principle remains firmly in place. Additionally, Hong Kong has introduced financial services and innovation and technology initiatives aimed at driving the city’s economic future. Hong Kong will also press ahead with innovation and technology (I&T) development by actively strengthening collaboration with sister cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. More innovative policies will be taken forward together to spur the development of the Northern Metropolis as an I&T hub. In particular, there is promising prospect for green tech and green finance.
The Hong Kong Dinner in London has been a long-standing tradition, taking place annually since 1983.
Guests at this year’s event included Mr Martin Barrow, Director of Jardine Matheson Holdings Ltd; Mr Colin Bell, Chief Executive Officer of HSBC Bank Plc; Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Chairman of Far East Consortium International Limited; Dr Jonathan Choi, Chairman of the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce; Mr Jack So Chak-kwong, Chairman of the Airport Authority Hong Kong; Baroness Dunn, DBE, Honorary President of the Hong Kong Association; Mr Ian Galbraith, Group Board Director-Strategy of Mott MacDonald; Mr John Greenwood, Chief Economist of the International Monetary Monitor; and Dr Gerard Lyons, Board Member of Bank of China (UK).
They also included Lord Mountevans, Chairman of The Baltic Exchange Ltd; Lord Paul of Marylebone, Former Director of Caparo Limited; Minister Wang Qi, Minister of The People’s Republic of China; Mr Michael Thomas, Former Attorney-General of Hong Kong; Mr Barnaby Swire, Chairman of John Swire & Sons Ltd; Mr Christian Salbaing, Deputy Chairman of Hutchison Whampoa Europe Ltd; Sir Jonathan Symonds, Chair of GSK ; José Viñals, Group Chairman of Standard Chartered PLC; and Lord David Wilson, Former Hong Kong Governor.
Media enquiries Please contact the HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department: Janet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.org
About HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn
Accurate Background, the largest independent global provider of compliant background checks, drug and health screening, and monitoring solutions, today announced that two Accurate leaders have been named to incoming leadership positions for the Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA) for 2023-24.
Katie Hartley, Vice President of Client Solutions at Accurate, joins the PBSA Executive Committee as Secretary/Treasurer. Hartley joined the PBSA Board of Directors in 2022 and has been an active member of the PBSA since 2005. Hartley previously served as Communications Committee Chair and remains active on the Advocacy Committee. She has more than two decades of career experience in the background screening industry.
“I’m proud to continue to represent Accurate, our customers, and others in our industry as I step into this global leadership role,” said Hartley. “I look forward to continuing to partner with other industry leaders to advance the standard for excellence in background screening and will remain focused on driving PBSA’s mission through efforts including volunteerism and advocacy.”
Khai Ngo, Managing Director of Accurate Background company VerifyNow, was named Chair Elect for the PBSA’s APAC Council. Ngo joined the Australian Committee in 2020 and has served as the APAC Education Committee Chair for two years. Ngo founded Australian-based VerifyNow, which was acquired by Accurate in 2022.
“I am thrilled to continue to build strong regional engagement with APAC Council members as we partner with the global PBSA team to increase educational resources and advance our mission,” said Ngo. “I especially look forward to working closely with APAC leadership to grow membership and support the delivery of the 2023 APAC Annual General Meeting, as well as a future one in Australia.”
The PBSA was founded as a non-profit trade association in 2003 and was established to represent the interest of companies offering employment and tenant background screening services. The association’s volunteer leadership positions are the cornerstone to its continued success.
Accurate Background is a PBSA Accredited Firm and has been a member of the association since its inception in 2003, proving its steadfast commitment to achieving excellence through high professional standards with accountability that results in continued institutional improvement.
About Accurate Background Our vision is to make every hire the start of a success story. As a trusted provider of employment background screening and workforce monitoring services, Accurate Background gives companies of all sizes the confidence to make smarter, unbiased hiring decisions at the speed of demand. Experience a new standard of support with a dedicated team, comprehensive technology and insight, and the most extensive coverage and search options to advance your business while keeping your brand and people safe. To learn more, visit accurate.com.
Over 1,300 participants explored Hong Kong’s business advantages
TheThink Business, Think Hong Kong (TBTHK) mega promotion organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) was held on 19 September in Paris, France.
Think Business, Think Hong Kong Paris organised by the HKTDC was held on 19 September at the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris, France, attracting more than 1,300 participants.
With the aim to promote bilateral trade and investment between Hong Kong and major international partners, TBTHK attracted over 1,300 participants. Over 1000 participants attended the full-day symposium at the Carrousel du Louvre to explore the latest developments and opportunities in the Asian economy, while some 300 leaders of the French, European and Hong Kong business communities joined the gala dinner.
More than 130 senior executives, investors, innovators, start-ups and professional service providers joined the TBTHK promotion, making it the largest Hong Kong delegation to Europe since the pandemic.
Dr Peter K N Lam, HKTDC Chairman, Mr Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong SAR and Mr Olivier Becht, France’s Minister for Foreign Trade, Economic Attractiveness and French Nationals Abroad, attended the opening ceremony.
Dr. Lam stated, “The event marks the first large-scale promotional activity organised by the HKTDC in Europe since the end of the pandemic, highlighting the importance of the long-standing business relationship between Hong Kong and France.”
He added, “With its unique advantages, Hong Kong continues to be the preferred platform for French companies to establish and expand their presence in the vast Chinese and Asian markets. Hong Kong is a vibrant and rapidly developing key city in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and serves as an international gateway to access the Mainland China market.”
Mr Chan revealed in his opening remarks that this is his first official visit to France, and he is delighted to be in Paris. He remarked that Hong Kong’s relationship with France remains strong, as the two places maintained a trade volume of EUR9 billion in 2022.
He also explained to French businesses that Hong Kong is back: “Let me tell you that we have now recovered, as an economy and as a community. Yes, Hong Kong is back, open, re-connecting with a world of business. Our streets and shops, restaurants and bars, galleries, museums, theme parks and country parks are again filled with people and the many pleasures of life in a world city at the creative crossroads of East and West.”
Mr Becht added: “France is honoured to have been chosen to host the first Think Business, Think Hong Kong promotion in Europe following the end of pandemic. Hong Kong remains a great part of the Greater Bay Area and represents many opportunities for French companies. I’m also very happy to see many French businessmen and businesswomen attend the event in the heart of Paris. This confirms the community of French business remains committed to Hong Kong. They are ready to contribute to the economy recovery and to benefit of it. I have also come to tell that more than ever France remains a great region for investments, in particular from Hong Kong. This is the most attractive country for investors in all of Europe!”
Heavyweight speakers discussing opportunities in sustainability, innovation and creativity At the symposium, leaders of the French and European business communities highlighted how Hong Kong has positioned itself as a frontrunner in innovation and technology (I&T), sustainability and creativity, leveraging its rule of law, robust finance sector and excellent connectivity. By showcasing these strengths, the event reinforced Hong Kong’s status as the preferred destination in Asia for international businesses.
The symposium’s plenary session featured renowned speakers, including Mr Hans Michael Jebsen, Chairman of The Hong Kong-Europe Business Council and Chairman of Jebsen Group, Mr Jack So Chak-kwong, Chairman of the Hong Kong Airport Authority, Mr José Maurellet, SC, Vice Chairman of the Hong Kong Bar Association and Senior Counsel of Des Voeux Chambers, Mr Xavier Musca, CEO of Crédit Agricole CIB and Deputy General Manager of Crédit Agricole S.A. in charge of the Large Clients division, and Mr Wilfred Yiu, Co-Chief Operating Officer and Head of Equities of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited. They discussed the global economic outlook, advantages Hong Kong offers international businesses to achieve global success and how businesses can tap Asian opportunities via Hong Kong.
During the panel discussion on seizing business growth in Asia, business leaders, including Mr Justin D’Agostino, Executive Board Member of the International Chamber of Commerce and Global CEO of Herbert Smith Freehills, Mr Arnault Castel, Founder of kapok, Ms Rebecca Chan, Director and Chief Financial Officer of Cloudbreak Pharma, and Mr Mickael Pinto, CEO International of Energy & Sustainable Cities of Egis Group, shared how they translated their business ideas into real opportunities in Hong Kong.
Four thematic sessions were held in the afternoon. A session co-organised with the Hong Kong Monetary Authority on green and sustainable finance opportunities in Asia highlighted how Hong Kong as a major financial hub in Asia has been actively invested in the development of green finance in recent years. It also discussed how foreign businesses, including French corporates and investors, can leverage Hong Kong’s financial platform and be part of a bigger growth story.
A thematic session co-organised with PMQ Management Co. Ltd on “Co-creating a Dynamic and Sustainable Creative Industry for the Future” highlighted Hong Kong designers’ creative journeys and discussed the mindset needed to integrate sustainability into products and services for maximum impact.
Another concurrent session, co-organised with the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) on “Unlocking Asia’s Opportunities in Healthcare Innovation” explored the unique opportunities and challenges in leveraging I&T to address pressing healthcare needs in Asia.
Meanwhile, the session with Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) as special sponsor offered insights on how French and European companies can capture the vast opportunities in the GBA by leveraging the Hong Kong platform.
Networking activities to foster collaboration During the day, the symposium also facilitated over 300 on-site business matching meetings between French and Hong Kong companies. In addition to discussions, the symposium brought together 32 exhibitors from diverse sectors from Hong Kong and France. An InnoVenture Salon exhibition with Hong Kong start-ups, including Ecolar Technology Limited, Emerging Viral Diagnostics (HK) Limited and Lumiere Project, showcased their innovative solutions. Meanwhile, business advisory bodies, including Hong Kong Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (HKVCA), HKSTP, InvestHK and the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Hong Kong, were on-site at the Business Support Zone to offer consultation services to French companies looking to set up operations in Hong Kong.
Supported by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, a Hong Kong Café was set up at the symposium, offering participants a taste of Hong Kong.
Supported by PMQ, a showcase installation named “Creative Mosaic”, featuring 13 designers, was mounted in the symposium venue to celebrate Hong Kong’s creative excellence.
Following the symposium, a gala dinner was held at Pavillon Cambon Capucines officiated by Mr Chan and Mrs Valérie Pécresse, President of the Ile-de-France region. It was attended by some 300 prominent business leaders, government officials and representatives from the Hong Kong and French business communities.
About HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn
Dazz, the global leader in cloud security remediation, announced today that the Dazz Remediation Cloud is now available on Google Cloud Marketplace, enabling Google Cloud customers to easily acquire and deploy the company’s solution as part of their strategy to safely modernize development and scale cloud operations.
The Dazz platform uniquely allows customers to graph their code-to-cloud environment for visibility into the entire software development lifecycle and across all security controls. The company’s patented AI, automation, data correlation, and root cause analysis technology helps security and engineering teams rapidly discover, prioritize and fix misconfigurations, vulnerabilities, API insecurities, and secrets in code – all in a developer-friendly workflow. Since a typical enterprise has more than 70 security controls that are each capable of producing thousands of alerts daily, Dazz is a game changer for resource-constrained security teams, who can use the platform to slash the time it takes to investigate and fix issues from days to hours by eliminating manual, time-consuming processes.
“Security is top-of-mind for enterprises moving to the cloud, and we’re thrilled to be working with Google Cloud to help customers reduce the risks of modern application development,” said Merav Bahat, Dazz’s co-founder and CEO. “Security and cloud engineering teams can now easily add Dazz to their tech stack via the Google Cloud Marketplace and accelerate digital transformation knowing they will be able to rapidly and permanently fix the issues that matter most to the business.”
Since coming out of stealth in December 2021, Dazz holds the industry’s highest mileage in investigating and pinpointing root causes in hundreds of millions of security issues across dozens of customers, many in the Fortune 500. Customers experience significant business and security benefits. According to a recent IDC research paper, Dazz customers:
Spend 44% less time identifying root causes
Spend 38% less time researching issues
Are 21% quicker to fix issues
“As a part of their digital transformation strategies, many enterprises are seeking solutions that help them better identify and address security threats,” says Dai Vu, Managing Director, Cloud Marketplace & ISV GTM Programs, Google Cloud. “Now available on Google Cloud Marketplace, Dazz is helping to accelerate security cloud remediation for security and engineering teams.”
About Dazz Dazz accelerates cloud remediation for security and engineering teams. The Dazz Remediation Cloud maps your code-to-cloud pipelines, reduces your security alerts to their key root causes, and remediates issues right in the developer’s workflow. With Dazz, you gain full pipeline visibility, cut through alert noise, increase the value of existing tools, and shrink your risk window by reducing time to remediate. Visit us at dazz.io and follow us on Twitter at @dazz_io and LinkedIn at dazz-io.
Contact Information Tamar Harel Head of US Office, STLV tamar@shalomtelaviv.com +972508879311
The Group continue to innovate, digitise and expand product and service offerings
Mercury Securities Group Berhad (Mercury Securities or Company), debuted today on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad (Bursa Securities), opening at RM0.27 per share which represents a premium of 8% over the initial public offering (IPO) price of RM0.25 per share.
[L-R] Datin Chua Suat Khim, Independent Non-Executive Director of Mercury Securities; Mr. Chan Kim Hing, Independent Non-Executive Director of Mercury Securities; Dato’ Baharon Bin Talib, Independent Non-Executive Chairman of Mercury Securities; Dato’ A. Rahman Bin Safar, Non-Independent Non-Executive Director of Mercury Securities; Mr. Chew Sing Guan, Managing Director of Mercury Securities; Ms. Himahlini A/P M. Ramalingam, Independent Non-Executive Director of Mercury Securities
Mercury Securities is listed under the stock name of MERSEC with HKG: of 0285.
Mercury Securities is an investment holding company and through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Mercury Securities Sdn Bhd (a Participating Organisation of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad (“Bursa Securities”) and a Recognised Principal Adviser by the Securities Commission Malaysia) (collectively “Group”) is principally involved in the provision of stockbroking, corporate finance advisory services and other related businesses such as margin financing facilities services, underwriting and placement services, as well as provision of nominee and custodian services.
The Group raised a total of RM39.27 million through the IPO, from which RM26.86 million of the proceeds is allocated for margin financing facility services. RM2.88 million is allocated for the enhancement of digitalisation programme and marketing activities for the stockbroking business and operations of the Group. RM4.63 million of the proceeds will be used for working capital purposes while the remaining RM4.90 million is allocated for estimated listing expenses.
Managing Director of Mercury Securities, Mr. Chew Sing Guan said, “I would like to thank the SC and Bursa Securities for their continued stewardship of our capital market. I would also like to thank the entire Mercury Securities team and due diligence working group for their hard work to make today possible.”
Upon its listing on the ACE Market, Mercury Securities will have a market capitalisation of RM223.25 million based on the issue price of RM0.25 per share and its enlarged issued share capital of 893.00 million shares.
Some 6,000 global business leaders foster Belt and Road synergies
The eighth edition of the Belt and Road Summit, jointly organised by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), concluded today after a successful two-day event at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC).
The eighth edition of the Belt and Road Summit, held on the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative, assembled some 90 government officials and business leaders from over 70 countries and regions along the Belt and Road.
Marking 10 years of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the Summit brought together some 90 government officials and business leaders from more than 70 countries and regions along the Belt and Road. The event garnered significant attention, attracting some 6,000 participants from around the world.
An effective platform to showcase Hong Kong’s unique advantages, the Summit enjoys unwavering support from Mainland China and strong global connections. With Hong Kong as a gateway for foreign investment and a facilitator for global expansion, the event fostered connections with emerging markets and promoted the growth of emerging industries. This resulted in the signing of 21 memoranda of understanding (MoUs). The event also provided young leaders and start-ups with an opportunity to participate and share BRI opportunities and successes.
Charting emerging-market development Under the theme Prospering on a Decade of Collaboration, this year’s Summit hosted multiple panel discussions and sessions to highlight emerging markets.
This includes policy dialogues and project investment sessions focused on the Middle East, which were complemented by business plenaries and thematic breakout sessions on a range of topics to reflect on the past 10 years of the BRI and explore future business and investment opportunities across industries.
The focus on the Middle East at the Summit followed high-level and industry-specific missions to the Middle East this year, including a high-level delegation led by Hong Kong SAR Chief Executive John Lee that visited Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The Summit’s first session, Policy Dialogue, hosted by Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the Hong Kong SAR, invited heavyweight speakers to share their insights, focused on enhancing cooperation to promote investments, financial services and development solutions between Belt and Road countries and the Middle East.
Speaking on the topic of Tapping into the Potential of the Middle East, Rania A. Al-Mashat, Minister of International Cooperation of Egypt, said: “Egypt and Mainland China have cooperated on trade infrastructure for a long time. The mainland has invested extensively in port and industrial-park infrastructure in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, including in manufacturing and technology projects. There is a fundamental overhaul in sustainable infrastructure and the global value chain, with developments in such areas as bunkering and logistics.”
Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy of the UAE, also shared his views: “We want to switch ourselves from a linear to a circular economy, continually re-cycling resources,” Mr Al Marri said. One scheme the country was working on was “fry to fly,” where an industrial plant converted used cooking oil into aviation fuel. As with Hong Kong, both tourism and aviation were vital for the UAE, he said. Each sector accounted for 14% of UAE’s GDP so it was vital to ensure both became sustainable. As with Hong Kong and its membership of the Greater Bay Area, the UAE was developing manufacturing in the Middle East, planning industrial corridors with Bahrain and Jordan.”
Meanwhile, Fahd bin Abdulmohsan Al-Rasheed, Advisor in the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers of Saudi Arabia, said: “All of Saudi Arabia was focused on the Vision 2030 project, an ambitious project to create a vibrant society and prosperous nation. A key part of Vision 2030 was the innovative city of NEOM, a technology-focused metropolis being built from scratch, stretching inland from the Red Sea coast in the northwest of the country. The Middle East and Saudi Arabia had a lot to contribute to the Belt and Road. The Red Sea, which runs along the Kingdom’s west coast, carried 30% of the world’s shipping.”
Debut Middle East Forum boosts synergy for BRI The Middle East Forum made its debut on Day 2, 14 September, to reinforce the synergy of the BRI. A business session, featuring the Business and Investment Outlook in the Middle East Market, hosted by Ronnie C. Chan, Chairman of Hang Lung Properties Limited, invited distinguished guests, including Nicolas Aguzin, Chief Executive Officer of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited; Maher Aboud, Group Chief Executive Officer of Ghassan Aboud Group, Ahmed Obaid Yousef Al Qaseer, Chief Executive Officer of the Sharjah Investment Development Authority; Hossam Heiba, President of the General Authority for Investment & Free Zones; and Walid Majdalani, Managing Director Corporate Investment for Middle East and North Africa of Investcorp, to analyse Middle Eastern market trade and investment prospects and further strengthen connections between Hong Kong and Middle Eastern countries.
Over 280 investment projects matched The hybrid business matching and project pitching sessions at the Summit remained popular among project owners and participants. More than 280 investment projects from the Belt and Road region and beyond were presented, covering four main areas: (1) energy, natural resources and public utilities; (2) innovation and technology; (3) urban development; and (4) transportation and logistics infrastructure. The projects focused on areas, such as smart city development, data centres and e-commerce-related investments. Over 800 one-to-one business matching meetings were arranged for project owners, investors and professional service providers to pave the way for collaboration agreements. New project-pitching sessions on the Middle East and emerging markets were also well received.
21 MoUs highlight strong connections with ASEAN A total of 21 cooperation MoUs were signed, involving government bodies and companies from Hong Kong, Mainland China and ASEAN countries, such as Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand. They covered renewable construction resources, sustainable energy, R&D, infrastructure, logistics and more. Among them, MoUs signed with Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates to strengthen Hong Kong-Middle East ties.
Dedication to nurturing future pillars The new Youth Chapter invited young business leaders and start-ups to share thei insights on exploring and seizing Belt and Road opportunities. Some 150 recipients of the Belt and Road Scholarship, Youth Development Commission (YDC) Youth Ambassadors, and graduate students from various universities were invited to the Summit. YDC Youth Ambassadors presented a multimedia exhibition on the 10th anniversary of the BRI and provided simultaneous interpretation services for participants in one-on-one project match-making.
The following day, the 6th Belt and Road Global Forum Annual Roundtable will take place along with Belt and Road Week, share perspectives on Belt and Road collaborations, exchange the latest information and seize cooperation opportunities.
About HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn
Themed Prospering on a Decade of Collaboration, the event attracts enthusiastic participation from government and business leaders, as well as youth
The eighth edition of the Belt and Road Summit, jointly organised by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), began today and will run for two days at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). This year’s Summit is especially significant as it marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative. Operating under the theme of Prospering on a Decade of Collaboration, the Summit serves as a vital platform for fostering business and trade. It assembles more than 90 government officials and prominent business leaders from countries and regions along the Belt and Road, as well as other relevant countries and regions. With nearly 6,000 attendees registering from across the globe, the Summit encompasses a range of discussion sessions and activities, including the Opening Session, Policy Dialogue, Keynote Luncheon, Business Plenary, Thematic Breakout Sessions, and Project Investment Sessions.
The eighth Belt and Road Summit, jointly organised by the HKSAR Government and the HKTDC, opened today.
The Summit aims to review the achievements and experiences of the Belt and Road Initiative and explore opportunities, focusing on promoting high-quality development in areas such as infrastructure, logistics, finance, technology and trade. The Summit also aims to promote arts and culture of the region and demonstrate Hong Kong’s advantage as an important international trade platform for seizing Initiative opportunities.
The Summit invited Ding Xuexiang, Vice Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, to deliver a video keynote speech at the opening Ceremony this morning. John Lee, Chief Executive of the HKSAR, delivered the opening address, and Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC, delivered a welcoming speech. Special addresses were also delivered by Zheng Yanxiong, Deputy Director, the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China and Director, the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Guo Tingting, Vice Minister, Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China; Guo Ping, Vice Chairman of the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council (SASAC) of the People’s Republic of China; and Xiao Weiming, Deputy Secretary General, National Development and Reform Commission of the People’s Republic of China. Keynote speeches were also given by Arman Shakkaliyev, Minister of Trade and Integration, Kazakhstan; and Rizal Affandi Lukman, Senior and Special Staff to the Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs of Indonesia.
In his video speech, Ding Xuexiang, Vice Premier, State Council of the People’s Republic of China, said: “With its unique advantages, Hong Kong proactively participates in Belt and Road development and continues to strengthen collaborations with partnering countries by utilising its outstanding professional services in the financial, legal and aviation industries. Hong Kong has effectively contributed to the facilitation of cultural exchange and people-to-people bonds. In the process of integrating into national development, Hong Kong has grown better and bigger. The report to the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China stated that Hong Kong should make use of its advantages to develop closer collaborations with different countries and regions. We support Hong Kong in maintaining its unique status and advantages, reinforcing its position as an international financial, transport and logistics, as well as trade centre. We will preserve a free and open business environment, uphold the Common Law system and extend our international network, to reinforce the city’s role in the Belt and Road Initiative.”
John Lee, Chief Executive of the HKSAR Government, said in his opening address: “Hong Kong is determined to embrace the vast promise of the Belt and Road. The Hong Kong SAR Government is redoubling efforts to serve as the Belt and Road’s functional platform. Under the unique ‘one country, two systems’ principle, Hong Kong is bestowed with the strong support of our country and long-standing global connections. Hong Kong is an important conduit between Mainland China and the world. We are expanding our co-operation with Belt and Road partners in a wide range of areas. From trade and investment, innovation and technology, to infrastructure development and many more.”
Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC, said in his welcome remarks: “Economies need to rebuild resilience in a post-pandemic era. And this can be done by engaging more with emerging markets, which provide impetus for new growth. It also calls for a greater focus on newer industries, such as innovation and technology as well as sustainability. Hong Kong is the ideal platform to facilitate all of the above. As an international finance and business hub and gateway between Mainland China and the rest of the world, Hong Kong has always been an effective platform to connect countries and regions along the Belt and Road and beyond.”
Expanded policy dialogue to explore new opportunities This year’s Summit introduced a keynote luncheon session titled Resiliency and Development on Entering a New Era of the Belt and Road Initiative. The session featured welcome remarks by Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government, opening remarks by Chu Gang, Chief Operating Officer, China International Capital Corporation Limited, and a keynote speech by Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN. The session discussed development of the Belt and Road Initiative over the first decade, highlighting achievements, prospects, and market opportunities.
Kao Kim Hourn said: “ASEAN had turned 56 last month and had contributed a great deal to prosperity, stability and security in the region. As a region, it would be the world’s fifth-largest economy and its GDP expanded 5.7% last year, to about US$3.6 trillion. ASEAN was projected to grow 4.9% this year, significantly ahead of the global average, which is expected to be just 3%. As a large exporter, trade relations were very important to ASEAN and all 10 members recently completed a free trade agreement (FTA) with Hong Kong.”
The highly anticipated Policy Dialogue session has been expanded to two sessions. Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSAR, hosted the first session with invited guest speakers Fahd bin Abdulmohsan Al-Rasheed, Advisor in the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers of Saudi Arabia; Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, UAE; and Rania A. Al-Mashat, Minister of International Cooperation, Arab Republic of Egypt. The session focused on Tapping into the Potential of the Middle East, aiming to explore strategies for businesses entering the Middle East market and strengthening economic, trade, and investment ties between the regions.
Algernon Yau, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the HKSAR, moderated the second session with guest speakers Peter Szijjarto, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Hungary; Nguyen Chi Dzung, Minister of Planning and Investment, Vietnam; and Mohamad bin Haji Alamin, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia. The session focused on the theme Belt and Road Initiative as a Catalyst for Regional Cooperation and Development and saw ministerial-level officials from various ASEAN and European countries engaging in discussions on collaboration among different economic entities.
The Business Plenary session on the first afternoon, chaired by Antony Leung, Chairman of the Nan Fung Group and Group Chairman and Co-founder of New Frontier Group, focused on the theme Fostering Business Collaboration along the Belt and Road through Hong Kong. Guest speakers for this session included Jeffrey Cheah, Founder and Chairman of Sunway Group; Jean-Pascal Tricoire, Chairman of Schneider Electric; and Wang Haihuai, Director and General Manager of China Communications Construction Company Ltd. The speakers analyse how Hong Kong can leverage its past experiences to play an important role in the Belt and Road Initiative and create more opportunities for global businesses.
To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative, a Cocktail Reception was held on the first night of the Summit. The reception included welcoming remarks, opening remarks and special remarks given by Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC; Sun Yu, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive, Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited; and Paul Lam, Secretary for Justice of the HKSAR Government.
Four thematic sessions to discuss hot topics This year, for the first time, the Ministry of Commerce hosts the Mainland-Hong Kong Services Industry Symposium on the first day of the Summit. The symposium aims to analyse how the service industry can drive economic growth in the mainland. Additionally, on the first day of the Summit, the Department of Justice, China International Contractors Association, and the Insurance Authority partner with the HKTDC to hold Thematic Breakout Sessions on various topics. These include International Legal Cooperation, Opportunities in Hong Kong Infrastructure to Boost High-quality Belt and Road Development, and Hong Kong as an Insurance Service Hub in Asia. Tomorrow, the Summit will collaborate with the Development Bureau, Hong Kong Monetary Authority, Financial Services Development Council, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, and Cyberport to jointly organise multiple thematic breakout sessions. These sessions will comprehensively promote Hong Kong’s role and contributions in the Belt and Road Initiative.
A total of 17 MoUs signed on day one On the first day of the Summit, 17 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed by companies from Hong Kong, Mainland China, New Zealand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand and Kazakhstan. The second day will see four more MoU signings, further expanding the scope of cooperation among participating countries and regions.
Middle East Forum: expanding opportunities, building on delegation achievements In February this year, the HKTDC organised a delegation to the Middle East. Building upon achievements of that delegation, this year’s Summit introduced the Middle East Forum. One session within this segment, Business and Investment Outlook in the Middle East Market, is scheduled for tomorrow. It will be hosted by Ronnie C. Chan, Chairman of Hang Lung Properties Limited, and will feature distinguished guests such as Nicolas Aguzin, Chief Executive Officer of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited; Maher Abound, Chief Executive Officer of Ghassan Abound Group; Ahmed Obaid Yousef Al Qaseer, Chief Executive Officer of Sharjah Investment Development Authority; Hossam Heiba, President of the General Authority for Investment & Free Zones; and Walid Majdalani, Managing Director Corporate Investment for Middle East and North Africa of Investcorp. The session aims to analyse trade and investment prospects of Middle Eastern markets and further strengthen the connection between Hong Kong and Middle Eastern countries.
In addition to the Middle East Forum, this year’s summit introduces the Finance Chapter and Youth Chapter. The Finance Chapter will focus on exploring how Hong Kong can leverage its financial service advantages, while the Youth Chapter will aim to harness the power of young entrepreneurs to contribute to the nation’s needs.
Approximately 150 students including recipients of the Belt and Road Scholarship, Youth Development Commission (YDC) Youth Ambassadors, and graduate students from various tertiary institutions will be invited to participate in the Summit. These participants will have the opportunity to engage in discussions and activities within the Youth Chapter. Furthermore, the YDC Youth Ambassadors will play a significant role in the Summit. They will introduce the multimedia display commemorating the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative, showcasing the achievements and progress made over the past decade. The youth ambassadors will also provide simultaneous interpretation services for participants in the one-on-one project matchmaking sessions, facilitating communication and connections among participants from different countries and regions. The YDC Youth Ambassadors will also promote arts and culture of their respective homelands, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation among the countries and regions along the Belt and Road.
Inaugural multimedia display highlights achievements of Hong Kong companies The Summit will also feature a multimedia display marking a decade of the Initiative, which highlights participation by Hong Kong companies in Belt and Road projects. Additionally, the 6th Belt and Road Global Forum Annual Roundtable on 15 September will run in conjunction with the Belt and Road Week, using Hong Kong as a base to share perspectives on the Belt and Road collaborations, exchange the latest information and seize cooperation opportunities.
Extending, optimising deal making The HKTDC will extend its online and physical deal-making service to seven days (13 to 20 September), expecting to arrange more than 800 one-to-one project-matching sessions covering over 280 investment projects this year. The deal-making service includes one-to-one business matching meetings and project investment sessions. Business matching meetings will connect participants based on investment preferences and business expertise to facilitate one-to-one discussions on collaboration opportunities. Project investment sessions will provide a platform for project owners from different countries to present projects, giving investors and service intermediaries a comprehensive understanding of investment opportunities in different sectors. Project investment sessions will focus on four main areas: (1) energy, natural resources and public utilities, (2) innovation and technology, (3) urban development, and (4) transport and logistics infrastructure. New this year will be project-pitching sessions on the Middle East and emerging markets.
This year’s Summit brings together more than 100 exhibitors from the Global Investment Zone, Hong Kong Zone and RCEP Tech Zone. The Global Investment Zone will showcase large-scale investment projects and opportunities from different countries to attract international investors and partners; the Hong Kong Zone will demonstrate excellent services and business advantages the city’s enterprises offer; while the RCEP Tech Zone will feature high-end innovative technologies, artificial intelligence, digital technologies and solutions offered by exhibitors from the region. These three exhibition zones will also present project collaboration opportunities from various markets in the Middle East and emerging economies.
China International Capital Corporation Ltd serves as the Strategic Partner of the eighth Belt and Road Summit; Bank of China (Hong Kong) Ltd as the Banking Partner; The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited as the Global Connectivity Partner; Standard Chartered as Diamond Sponsor; Huatai International Financial Holdings Company Limited as Sapphire Sponsor and China Mobile International Limited, China Unicom Global Limited and China Telecom Global Limited as Platinum Sponsors.
About HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn
Anglepoint, the industry leader in Software Asset Management (SAM) Services for the Forbes 2000, will gather its employees and Client Advisory Board in person for a company-wide strategic offsite at the Park MGM in Las Vegas, NV.
Taking place from September 10th to 15th, Anglepoint in Motion (AIM) brings together more than 160 Anglepoint employees from 27 U.S. states and 12 countries. The week includes Masterclass style workshops and internal team meetings, in addition to providing a time to recognize peer-nominated employees for their exceptional contributions to Anglepoint’s success over the past year. “AIM provides a critical opportunity for our team of experts to deepen relationships and come together to advance companywide initiatives. In the past year we have seen incredible growth and look forward to this time to celebrate our achievements and solidify our strategic goals,” says Anglepoint CEO, Brian Papay.
Hosted concurrently with AIM, Anglepoint will gather the company’s Client Advisory Board (CAB) for the second year in a row. CAB members are executive leaders representing a diverse array of industries fields from financial services to aerospace. Anglepoint’s President and Chairman of the Board Ron Brill summarizes, “These CAB meetings provide Anglepoint with unparalleled perspective to maximize our impact with each client we serve around the world. Their first-hand expertise provides critical feedback and gives us insight into their challenges and needs. Armed with this knowledge, we can continuously evolve our best-in-class services to meet and exceed our client’s ITAM maturity goals.” CAB members lead in-depth discussions on industry trends, align priorities for the coming year and share their insight into how Anglepoint can continue to lead the industry.
ABOUT ANGLEPOINT Anglepoint is the leading, global provider of IT Asset Management and cloud-managed services, driving cost optimization, risk mitigation, and operational excellence within the software, hardware & cloud licensing estates of the world’s most complex organizations. We deliver end-to-end managed services, including program strategy development, technology selection, and implementation, to the Forbes Global 2000.
Contacts For media inquiries, please contact: Alison Frederick, Analyst Relations at info@anglepoint.com. Connect with Anglepoint on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and at Anglepoint.com.
Contact Information Alison Frederick Director of Analyst Relations and Client Experience info@anglepoint.com
