HONG KONG, Aug. 2 (Xinhua) -- John Lee, chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), said on Sunday that the Northern Metropolis is designed as a strategic platform to elevate Hong Kong's industries, technology, and talent development through key initiatives like its university town.

Lee made the remarks when attending a district forum to listen to views and suggestions from members of local communities on Hong Kong's five-year plan and the chief executive's fifth policy address. The event drew about 130 participants from different backgrounds.

Speaking on urban development, Lee emphasized the need to systematically integrate various sectors, including drainage, emergency response, and daily traffic management. He noted that systematic management, coupled with the use of technology, is essential to understanding current, mid-term, and long-term challenges.

Public consultations for Hong Kong's five-year plan and the 2026 policy address were launched in June, and multiple consultation sessions have been held. ■