News & Events

【Press Release】 

29 July 2025

Path of Democracy Meets with Chief Executive to Discuss 2025 Policy Address

This afternoon, Path of Democracy (PoD) convener Ronny Tong, along with board members Ray Poon (Co-convener-Research), Allan Wong (Co-convener-Internal&District Affairs), Frank Wong, Jeffery Chan, Angel Mak Daley, Ian Chu, Tommy Leung, Ian Chan, principal researcher Martin Cheung and community officer Sam Ip, met with Chief Executive John Lee to discuss recommendations for the upcoming 2025 Policy Address and explore key issues facing Hong Kong.

Ronny Tong expressed gratitude to the Chief Executive for taking the time to meet with representatives of PoD, providing a valuable platform for local think tanks to share their perspectives. During the discussion, the delegation presented insights on various social issues, including enhancing English proficiency among primary and secondary students to strengthen Hong Kong's international competitiveness; establishing a "Corporate Mentor Platform" to leverage the experience of retired executives in supporting the development of SMEs and startups; creating a cultural and international exchange platform for youth to increase participation opportunities and address underlying issues of limited development; and establishing a communication mechanism between the government and the public to foster understanding and consensus on national security and creative freedom.

Additionally, PoD representatives shared research findings, including results from the concluded research project on "Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviours of the International Business Community towards Doing Business in Hong Kong," funded by the Chief Executive's Policy Unit’ Public Policy Research Funding Scheme; a study on the impact of Article 23 of the Basic Law on "press freedom"; and the latest findings from the "One Country, Two Systems Index."

At the meeting, Ronny Tong shared with the Chief Executive the findings of an upcoming study on the Basic Law. He stated that the research reveals a general lack of understanding of the National Security Law within the media sector. This insufficient grasp of national security concepts often leads to misunderstandings and fear, ultimately prompting media professionals to engage in self-censorship.

Looking ahead, PoD remains committed to collaborating with the government and various sectors of society to build a better Hong Kong.