Synopsis: Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee leads a major business delegation to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan to strengthen trade, investment, and economic cooperation, sign multiple agreements, and expand business opportunities between Hong Kong, mainland China, and Central Asia.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee arrived in Astana, Kazakhstan, on Sunday, leading the largest business and trade delegation of his administration in a strategic effort to strengthen economic and commercial ties with Central Asia. The visit aims to expand cooperation across multiple sectors and create new opportunities for businesses from Hong Kong and mainland China in emerging regional markets.
The delegation comprises more than 40 representatives from Hong Kong’s business and professional communities, alongside around 30 executives from mainland Chinese enterprises. Upon arrival in Astana, the group was welcomed by Assan Darbayev and Cheng Kefan, Minister Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy in Kazakhstan.
John Lee described the mission as the second joint overseas initiative involving both Hong Kong and mainland representatives and noted that it covers the widest range of industries to date. He highlighted the significant potential for collaboration between Hong Kong and Central Asian economies in areas such as trade, investment, finance, infrastructure, and professional services.
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During the visit, Hong Kong is expected to sign several memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with Central Asian partners and facilitate multiple cooperation agreements involving governments, enterprises, and institutions from Hong Kong, mainland China, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. The agreements are intended to deepen economic engagement and strengthen cross-border business partnerships.
Lee expressed confidence that the mission would promote greater cross-sector exchanges, enhance connectivity, and establish new trade corridors linking Hong Kong with Central Asia. The initiative also aligns with broader efforts to diversify economic partnerships and explore growth opportunities in fast-developing international markets.
The delegation will spend three days in Astana before continuing its regional outreach in Uzbekistan, where further discussions on trade, investment, and economic cooperation are scheduled.