The head of a local think tank said on Sunday that Hong Kong needs to rebuild its international profile, which was "severely damaged" after the 2019 social unrest and the pandemic.

Speaking on a radio programme, Our Hong Kong Foundation chairman Bernard Chan pointed out that apart from deep-rooted social conflicts, the city is also facing new challenges such as foreign smears and negative media coverage.

"Many, many people outside of Hong Kong still have a very negative impression of Hong Kong, so we need to perhaps bring this right message to them," he said.

"Many of them haven't had a chance to come back to Hong Kong. So somehow, we need to give them reasons to come back to visit because I am sure, once they come back and see for themselves, they can then determine what's the future for Hong Kong."

As for the economy, the former Executive Council convenor believes Hong Kong must tackle both cyclical and structural issues going forward.

While cyclical problems should fade over time, Chan urged different sectors to come up with solutions to remain competitive and stay relevant.

The SAR is also facing a setback in trade and cooperation with the United States, after the US House of Representatives recently approved a bill which could shut down the city's Economic and Trade Offices in New York, San Francisco, and Washington DC.

Chan admitted it is difficult to rectify the stance of US politicians. But he said exchanges among community organisations remain crucial on non-political issues, such as climate change.

"It does no good to the world if everyone avoids communication," he added.