Hong Kong Summit Highlights Northern Metropolis University Town Development

Dragon Media News Desk

The Global University Presidents and Leaders Summit 2026 opened in Hong Kong on Tuesday, focusing on the development of the Northern Metropolis University Town and closer cooperation among government, industry, academia, research and investors.

The two-day summit, organized by the Hong Kong Association for External Friendship, brought together university presidents and senior officials from more than 50 universities across over 20 countries and regions.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said the Northern Metropolis is central to the city’s five-year plan and its future. He said its development would focus on three university towns, integrating education, technology, industry, talent and urban development.

Lee said the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government was committed to strengthening cooperation and coordination among industry, academia and research. He invited participants to work with Hong Kong to develop the Northern Metropolis and its university towns.