Chief Executive John Lee met with members of his Council of Advisers (CECA) this week to gather crucial insights for his forthcoming Policy Address.

The discussions took place over a series of luncheon meetings held from July 9 to 11.

Focusing on Hong Kong's future, the council explored strategies for economic advancement and sustainability, innovation and entrepreneurship as well as regional and global collaborations.

Key topics included ways to consolidate the SAR's position as an international financial, shipping and trade centre amidst ongoing geopolitical shifts and economic restructuring.

They also examined how to promote the transformation of traditional industries, attract top talent to bolster the innovation and technology sector and expedite the development of the Northern Metropolis.

Furthermore, discussions centred on leveraging opportunities arising from the mainland and deepening exchanges while strengthening ties with Belt and Road countries and emerging markets, such as those in the Middle East.

This meeting marked the first gathering for the new term of CECA members, a body chaired by Lee.

He said members of the council are all distinguished and eminent leaders in their respective fields or internationally renowned scholars, experts or entrepreneurs.

He specifically welcomed three new members Zhu Min, who served as the Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund and the Deputy Governor of the People's Bank of China, Han Bicheng, founder of Hangzhou "Six Little Dragons" enterprise BrainCo and Wang Xingxing, founder of Hangzhou "Six Little Dragons" enterprise Unitree Robotics.

"During the meeting, they emphasised that Hong Kong is bestowed with its unique advantages of connecting with both the mainland and the world, excellent education and research capabilities, and advantageous geographical location, and it is also an international financial centre with free flow of capital," Lee said in a statement.

"These advantages would greatly attract mainland enterprises to list in Hong Kong and use Hong Kong as the gateway to go global."

The meetings were also attended by senior officials including Chief Secretary Eric Chan, Acting Financial Secretary Michael Wong, Acting Secretary for Justice Horace Cheung, Director of the Chief Executive's Office Carol Yip and Head of the Chief Executive's Policy Unit Stephen Wong.

These consultations form a key part of preparation for Lee's fourth Policy Address, which he is scheduled to deliver this September.

Public consultation for the Policy Address began on June 16.