Chief Executive John Lee has praised the Law Society of Hong Kong for its role in helping mainland enterprises expand overseas.

Speaking via video at the opening ceremony of the Law Society’s new premises on Wednesday, Lee said the society’s new home reflects the vitality, growth and enduring strength of the city’s legal sector.

"I am pleased to note that the Law Society has been active in assisting mainland enterprises in going global, while providing professional support for international investors coming to Hong Kong," he said.

The chief executive also encouraged Hong Kong’s legal professionals to continue showcasing the city’s strengths to the world — particularly its internationalised, high-standard, and highly credible legal and dispute resolution services.

Looking ahead, Lee expressed hope the legal profession would proactively align with the nation's 15th Five-Year Plan, which he said would bring boundless opportunities for the industry.

Secretary for Justice Paul Lam, speaking at the same event, announced that the Department of Justice is embarking on a project to develop a new Hong Kong international legal service building.

The facility, he said, would be located next to the headquarters of the International Organisation for Mediation in Wan Chai.

"The construction of this new international legal hub reflects the government's firm commitment to provide enhanced infrastructure for our legal and dispute resolution communities," he said.

"Just as the Law Society's new premises will serve as a focal point for the solicitor's profession, the new international legal hub will stand as another landmark for Hong Kong's legal services sector as a whole."

Lam said he looked forward to even closer collaboration between the Law Society and the Department of Justice in advancing the cause of justice and the rule of law, as well as harnessing Hong Kong’s unique legal system under the principle of "One Country, Two Systems".

After the ceremony, Law Society president Roden Tong told reporters that the society would conduct an official visit to Beijing next week.

He said the delegation would engage with ministries and institutions in the nation’s capital, exploring ways the legal profession could support national development and deepen legal collaboration between the mainland and Hong Kong.


Edited by Tony Sabine