Former chief executive CY Leung on Sunday said Hong Kong should play a more proactive role in international exchanges to support the country amid complex geopolitical changes.

Speaking on a radio programme, Leung, who's also the vice chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, said the city must align "what Hong Kong is good at" with "what the nation needs" as it plans its own development.

While state-to-state diplomacy is handled by the central government, Leung said there’s plenty of "people-to-people" diplomacy Hong Kong can do to build ties.

"Because of Hong Kong’s history, our local culture, and our language abilities, we’re particularly well‑suited to expand people‑to‑people international exchanges — especially through culture, arts, sports, and education," he said.

"Compared with mainland cities, Hong Kong is especially well placed to do this."

He used his foundation as an example, saying it has helped 10 countries over eight years.

It has done this by donating supplies and helping people directly, he said.

He added the foundation often sends Hong Kong university students to less developed countries for exchanges, believing this broadens their horizons and changes their outlook.