Hong Kong leader John Lee unveils first five-year plan to broaden economy beyond finance

Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, unveiled the city's first five-year plan on Wednesday, a move that mirrors mainland China's development strategy. The plan aims to diversify Hong Kong's economy beyond finance, focusing on technology and higher education. Key initiatives include accelerating the Northern Metropolis project, which will provide land for innovation and industry, and strengthening Hong Kong's role as a global financial and trade hub. The plan also addresses social issues like housing and birth rates. Observers see this as a step toward closer integration with mainland China.