He noted that this year's competition has further expanded its scale by introducing the new district-level contests in all 18 districts and by hosting the second edition of the mainland invitational contest, fostering exchanges among local students and 300 mainland peers.

　　Zhou emphasized the event's role in nurturing bilingual and trilingual talents to confidently share Hong Kong's stories globally, solidifying the city's status as an ideal destination for international learners.

　　Huang Jingrui, spokesperson and press counselor of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the HKSAR, has participated in the competition for the third consecutive year, having served as a judge for two consecutive years.

　　He praised the competition's growing caliber, noting that the participants, particularly in the secondary school category, have demonstrated leadership potential and remarkable progress. He commended China Daily for providing an invaluable platform to nurture the younger generation.

　　Huang highlighted the SAR's unique role as a biliterate and trilingual language region, stressing the enduring importance of English proficiency for young talents to narrate compelling stories of the nation and Hong Kong.

　　Alice Mak Mei-kuen, secretary for home and youth affairs, said she was delighted with the marked improvement in the skills of the contestants, hailing the competition as a vital platform to showcase Hong Kong youths' talents, particularly their mastery of English, to both local and global audiences.

　　She said it vital to collaborate with stakeholders across society to provide diverse opportunities for young people to hone and exhibit their abilities. “By amplifying these platforms, we ensure the world recognizes the excellence of Hong Kong's youth in language and communication,“ she said.