Hong Kong prioritizes AI as core industry for future development: financial chief

HONG KONG, Aug. 26 (Xinhua) -- Paul Chan, financial secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, said on Tuesday that the HKSAR government has prioritized artificial intelligence (AI) as a core industry for future development, a key enabler for upgrading traditional industries and sectors.

Speaking at the inaugural AI Global Talents Connect, a platform connecting leading scholars, students, entrepreneurs and the business community, Chan said that the Hong Kong Artificial Intelligence Research and Development Institute, which will be established next year, will put emphasis on translating research into real-world applications, including healthcare, finance, logistics, education, and more.

Chan stressed that building an open, collaborative and inclusive community for AI is vital. Not only is it the key to advancing science and technology, it is also essential to attracting and retaining global talent, which is the driving force behind every innovation.

The AI Global Talents Connect brought together over 350 experts and scholars from around the world in the field of AI, along with representatives from AI startups and investment institutions.