Hong Kong’s labour chief has said geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have made the city, with its relative security and stability, “a more attractive place” for global talent, including those from Gulf countries.
Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han also highlighted the government’s efforts in recent years to attract talent, dismissing concerns that most successful applicants under its schemes were from mainland China.
He said that about a fourth of imported workers from various schemes were foreign passport holders, adding the Global Talent Summit Week – which he attended on Wednesday – had drawn participants from Europe, the United States and Southeast Asia.
“A significant number of overseas talents choosing Hong Kong as their base for development truly demonstrates the city’s importance and attractiveness as a talent hub,” he said.
“We know that, given the geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, Hong Kong – with our secure environment and very stable opportunities – has become a more attractive place for talent from around the world, including those from the region who can use Hong Kong as a base for development.”
Hong Kong Talent Engage, a government office under the Labour and Welfare Bureau, visited Saudi Arabia last year, Sun noted.
