Beijing official urges Hong Kong to enhance role as sole common law jurisdiction in country

Beijing’s top diplomat in Hong Kong has urged the city to enhance its “springboard” role in connecting China and the world as the only place in the country that practises common law.

Cui was speaking at the Asia-Pacific International Private Law Summit 2024, which is part of “Legal Week”, a five-day event by the Department of Justice held at the Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai.

The theme of this year’s event, which began on Monday, is “Hong Kong Common Law System: World-class Springboard to China and Beyond”.

Cui stressed that the central government’s commitment to the “one country, two systems” governing principle provided the “strongest foundation” for the city’s development.

“Hong Kong can continue to enhance its unique role of a ‘superconnector’ to facilitate trade and investment between Chinese and foreign enterprises,” he said.