AIIB president, Paul Chan discuss closer HK ties

Financial Secretary Paul Chan met with Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank President Zou Jiayi in Doha to discuss strengthening cooperation in regional infrastructure projects, sustainable growth, and leveraging Hong Kong's expertise in finance and professional services. Chan expressed enthusiasm over the bank's intention to establish an office in the Special Administrative Region, and highlighted potential collaboration areas like catastrophe bond issuance and green finance.

Chan also met separately with Qatar's Finance Minister Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari to promote closer economic ties between Hong Kong and the Middle East. He noted that the Middle East's pursuit of economic diversification had opened new opportunities for both regions, and emphasized Hong Kong's strengths in finance, trade, and innovation to complement Qatar's development goals.

During a speech to the Qatari Businessmen Association, Chan stressed Hong Kong's unique status under the "One Country, Two Systems" policy, and showcased the city's development of the Northern Metropolis and the "South North Dual Engine" model, inviting Qatari firms to invest in the city's innovative and technological sectors. Chan also proposed exploring mutual recognition agreements with the Qatar Stock Exchange to enable Qatari companies to list on both exchanges, facilitating expansion into China and the Asia-Pacific region.

Chan will participate in AIIB-related events on Monday before returning to Hong Kong late on the same day.