Beijing’s top diplomat in Hong Kong has urged the city to strengthen its role as a “stepping stone” in connecting China and the world as the only place in the country to practice common law.

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

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

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

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