Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said today (June 2) that direct flights between HK and Almaty are scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2027, marking a key outcome of his ongoing visit to Kazakhstan with a business delegation comprising representatives from HKSAR and the mainland.
Speaking to the media during the visit, Lee said substantive progress had been achieved at the government-to-government level, with both sides agreeing to commence full-speed negotiations on a comprehensive agreement for the avoidance of double taxation.
The two parties have also begun discussions on an investment promotion and protection agreement, with the aim of concluding the arrangement as soon as possible.
Lee said the visit is expected to result in 43 memorandums of understanding and investment agreements spanning trade and investment, financial services, technology and education.
Among the key outcomes, direct services to Almaty in the first quarter of 2027 will be launched. The two sides also agreed to strengthen cooperation in artificial intelligence and digital development, while advancing the development of digital infrastructure.
In addition, Kazakhstan will hold investment roadshows in HK to encourage greater participation by investors and professional service providers.
HK's three major innovation and technology parks and the Astana Hub have also agreed to deepen collaboration in innovation and technology development.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEX), the Astana Hub and the Astana International Financial Centre reached agreements to enhance cooperation in areas including the development of green finance ecosystems, cross-border listings and opportunities in commodities trading markets.
Lee's visit to Kazakhstan began on June 1 and forms part of efforts to strengthen economic and commercial ties between HK and Central Asia.
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