Hong Kong leader urges media to combat falsehoods and promote city abroad

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu urged the city’s media to safeguard the truth, counter falsehoods and expand their international reach. Speaking at an event marking the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Lee said journalists should follow professional ethics and report facts objectively, fairly and impartially. He also called on the media to serve as spokespeople for positive stories about mainland China and Hong Kong.

Lee said wider international reporting would help overseas audiences understand China’s role in global development and Hong Kong’s position as a “superconnector” and “super value-adder”. Lee urged journalists to remain alert to hidden dangers that could affect social stability. He said objective and fair reporting could help move society forward.

The chief executive said Hong Kong had weathered the 2019 protests, the national security law, the Covid-19 pandemic and electoral reforms. He accused unnamed external forces of deliberately smearing China and distorting the situation. His administration has repeatedly promoted the idea of telling good Hong Kong stories since 2022.

Lee said the government would continue supporting local media organisations, including efforts to expand their overseas networks and audiences. The supplied material said the initiative could help Chinese- and English-language outlets provide media services in countries participating in China’s Belt and Road Initiative.