The Hong Kong government will continue to support world-class scientific activities in the city to promote dialogue among top scientists with the aim of accelerating technological advancement and industrial transformation, said the city's technology chief on Friday, adding that such events can also serve as a beacon of light for the next generation.

Sun Dong, secretary for innovation, technology and industry, made the pledge during the opening ceremony of a two-day Scientific Symposium of the 2024 Future Science Prize Week on Friday.  

The symposium brings together 20 top international scientists who are involved in cutting-edge research in life sciences, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and computer science.

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Sun said the city is fortunate to have such a wealth of great scientists and academics supporting the city in achieving its goal of becoming an international innovation and technology center, as well as a center for high-caliber talent.

Before the first session of the symposium on chemistry got underway, Sun talked about the transformative impact of scientific breakthroughs, highlighting the essential role of dialogue and exchange among scientists in nurturing new insights and innovations, adding that it is much like the transformative power of chemistry.

Referencing the latest Policy Address, which was delivered by Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu in mid-October, Sun outlined new initiatives to further propel Hong Kong's innovation.

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He said the government will adhere to the principle of "promoting technology with talent, leading industries with technology, and attracting talent with industries", and will continue to perfect the city’s innovation and technology ecosystem and enlarge its talent pool.

Vivian Yam Wing-wah, co-chair of the Program Committee of the 2024 Future Science Prize Week and a founding member of the Hong Kong Academy of Sciences, said the symposium’s objective is to celebrate remarkable scientific achievements and promote the spirit of science.

She highlighted the significance of hosting the event in the city, which boasts several world-class research universities, and noted that of the 39 recipients of the science prize since its establishment, five were from Hong Kong.

“We strive to kindle the spark of curiosity in people of all ages, especially those in the next generation of young people, to cultivate a passion for science and an eagerness to support scientific endeavors and to engage in scientific pursuits,” she said.

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Two themes were featured at the symposium on Friday: “Chemistry — The Central Science Towards Interdisciplinary Research”; and “Life Science — Transformative Science for Human Biology and Health”. Saturday’s sessions will delve into the advancement of quantum information, mathematics, AI and chips.

Participants include scholars from Hong Kong, the Chinese mainland, and esteemed overseas research institutions. One of the participants is a Nobel laureate.

Named after the Future Science Prize, one of the world's most prestigious scientific awards, prize week features a series of events aimed at promoting scientific exchanges. It is being held in Hong Kong for the second consecutive year.

On Sunday, an awards ceremony will be held for the four mainland scientists who won this year’s prize. They will give a public lecture and engage with young people.

Contact the writer at stephyzhang@chinadailyhk.com