Previously, Hong Kong's Chief Executive John Lee embarked on his second Middle East mission on May 10, leading a groundbreaking delegation to Qatar and Kuwait to explore new economic opportunities and strengthen ties with the region. For the first time, the delegation included over 20 mainland Chinese business representatives, facilitating direct engagement between Chinese enterprises and Middle Eastern partners.
On the final day of the trip, Lee highlighted Hong Kong's unique "backed by the motherland, connected to the world" advantage, noting that Middle Eastern nations are actively diversifying risks and seeking investment opportunities in China and Hong Kong amid the global economic shift eastward. The visit yielded significant results, including 59 memoranda of understanding (MOUs) and agreements, elevating Hong Kong's relations with Qatar and Kuwait to new heights.
This marks Lee's second Middle East tour since taking office. His first visit in February 2023 to Saudi Arabia and the UAE resulted in 13 strategic partnerships, fostering robust government and private-sector exchanges. Over 800 days later, Lee returned with three key objectives: strengthening government ties, expanding cooperation, and broadening Hong Kong's network.
Telling "one country, two systems" stories
In Qatar, Lee met with the Emir, Prime Minister, and Minister of Communications and Information Technology, emphasizing shared priorities in technology and artificial intelligence (AI) as economic drivers. He positioned Hong Kong as a key platform for Belt and Road Initiatives (BRI) cooperation, offering world-class professional services to facilitate projects.
In Kuwait, discussions with the Emir, Crown Prince, and Acting Prime Minister centered on Hong Kong's role as a bridge between mainland China and global markets. Lee invited Kuwaiti businesses to leverage Hong Kong's strengths to access the mainland, particularly in finance and innovation. Local media highlighted the visit as a catalyst for deeper partnerships in the digital economy and smart services.
Unlocking Gulf opportunities: Hong Kong's strategic role
Legislative Council (LegCo) Member Johnny Ng noted Kuwait's strategic significance despite its size, pointing to opportunities in infrastructure, renewable energy, and fintech. Meanwhile, Law Society of Hong Kong president Roden Tong emphasized the city's common law system as a gateway for Middle Eastern investors entering China, calling for closer legal collaboration.
"Hong Kong is the only city in the world that enjoys both Mainland and international opportunities with unlimited development potential. The Chief Executive's visit to Qatar and Kuwait, where he led representatives of Hong Kong businesses and Mainland enterprises, is a perfect example." Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong said.
Mainland-Hong Kong collaboration: Sailing together
The delegation broke new ground by including mainland entrepreneurs from sectors like finance, tech, and logistics. For instance, one corporation secured two Middle East projects during the trip, with Hong Kong firms providing legal support.
"In today's market environment, there will be more exchanges and cooperation between the Mainland and Hong Kong, and Mainland enterprises are willing to join hands with Hong Kong to go out to sea together."
A mainland delegate also praised Hong Kong's financial and legal infrastructure as an ideal springboard for global expansion. He described the trip as "very fruitful" as he met sincere potential partners in Qatar and plans to set up an overseas R&D headquarters and clearing house in Hong Kong in the future.
Tech-sector lawmaker Duncan Chiu highlighted the delegation's success in fostering cross-border collaboration, particularly in niche industries like green tech and advanced materials. "This model unlocks new potential, from joint ventures to listings," he said.
Breaking barriers in a challenging global landscape
Amid geopolitical complexities, Hong Kong's adaptability makes it the perfect partner for mainland enterprises venturing abroad. The CE's Middle East tour not only showcased Hong Kong's strengths but also reinforced China's commitment to openness, laying a solid foundation for new markets and breakthroughs.
(Source: Ta Kung Pao; Journalists: Yi Hao, Huang Yimiao; English Editor: Darius)
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