Hong Kong will strategically utilize artificial intelligence (AI) and IT technologies to enhance its robust legal services, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu told an international law colloquium on Friday.

Lee also hopes that the Hong Kong-based International Organization for Mediation (IOMed), the world’s first intergovernmental mediation body, established in May, will forge a pathway to mutually respectful understanding in settling global disputes.

Around 200 legal heavyweights, government officials and institutional leaders from around 40 jurisdictions worldwide gathered in Hong Kong on Friday to attend the annual Colloquium on International Law, hosted to mark the 80th anniversary of the establishment of the United Nations (UN), to explore how technologies, particularly AI, will impact international law and order.

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During his opening remarks, Lee highlighted Hong Kong’s strength in promoting legal technology, including for online dispute resolution and the use of AI, as well as the city’s ongoing endeavors to facilitate international cooperation in this field.

In January, Hong Kong’s Department of Justice established a Consultation Group on LawTech Development to explore innovative solutions for the legal and dispute resolution sectors, Lee said.

To further advance the sector's understanding of technology used in legal services, the government also held the first LexGoTech Roundtable in June, promoting legal professionals’ understanding of the legal technology wave.

The chief executive also outlined the city’s progress in resolving disputes through online approaches.

Hong Kong is one of seven economies adopting the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation’s collaborative framework, which was designed to help businesses resolve disputes online through negotiation, mediation and arbitration.

The city has also been collaborating with the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law in this area, establishing a Hong Kong-based project office in 2020 to advance online dispute resolution with contributions from different jurisdictions, Lee said.

In his speech, Lee also noted the signing of the Convention on the Establishment of the IOMed in May, which marked the creation of the world’s first intergovernmental organization dedicated to resolving international disputes through mediation.

He expressed confidence that the IOMed, which is expected to be operational by the end of this year, will enhance global governance and contribute to world peace and stability.

Also addressing the event, Cui Jianchun, commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, said Hong Kong is well-positioned to contribute to global discussions on AI-related ethics, regulation and legal practices.

READ MORE: Hong Kong takes massive step up with the opening of IOMed

Cui highlighted Hong Kong's unique advantages, including its internationally aligned financial system, robust legal framework, and deep talent pool in various sectors.

Additionally, Hong Kong's thriving AI ecosystem holds strong appeal to global investment, technology and talent, Cui said.

Cui pledged that the Commissioner’s Office will fully support the city in expanding international exchanges and cooperation, as well as in building a global hub for top-tier talent.

Contact the writer at amberwu@chinadailyhk.com