HONG KONG -- Hong Kong Laureate Forum 2025, an science and technology exchange event, kicked off in Hong Kong Wednesday, bringing together over 200 young scientists from more than 20 countries and regions.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Chan Kwok-ki, chief secretary for administration of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government, said that a raft of policies to attract talents has been rolled out, including a frontier technology research support scheme totaling 3 billion Hong Kong dollars (about $385.8 million) to build advanced facilities for breakthrough science and technology research.

The establishment of the laureate forum has not only supported local and global scientific development, but also fast-tracked Hong Kong's rise as an international innovation and technology center, Chan added.

Tong Wai-cheung, chairman of the forum, said through engaging dialogues and meaningful networking, the forum aims to cultivate curiosity, ignite passion for science and technology, and empower emerging scientific talent both in Hong Kong and across the international community.

Under the theme "meeting of inspirational minds," the forum this year will last four days. It features a wide range of programs, including keynote speeches, breakout sessions and poster presentations. Discussions at the forum mainly covers astronomy, life science and medicine, as well as mathematical sciences.