Welcoming the distinguished guest, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the exceptional significance of this visit, as this is the first ever visit by the head of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China to Kazakhstan.
"This event will undoubtedly give further impetus to the development of cooperation between Kazakhstan and Hong Kong, and more broadly, between Kazakhstan and China, with which we enjoy a long-standing comprehensive strategic partnership. Our countries maintain a high level of political dialogue and are actively developing trade, economic, and investment cooperation. The same can be said about our relations with Hong Kong," said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
The head of state noted Hong Kong's unique role as one of the world's leading financial and business centres, with significant potential in investment, innovation, technology, and international trade.
The President expressed confidence that the current visit will open up new opportunities for strengthening mutually beneficial cooperation, expanding business contacts, and launching promising joint projects, including in the areas of investment, finance, digitalization and artificial intelligence, transport, and logistics.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev also expressed gratitude to the distinguished guest for his decision to visit Kazakhstan accompanied by a representative business delegation, which signals the high interest of the Hong Kong business community in expanding cooperation with our country.
John Lee thanked the President for the warm welcome, confirming Hong Kong's readiness to further deepen comprehensive cooperation with Kazakhstan.
"I attach particular importance to this visit. This is the largest delegation I've ever accompanied on a trip abroad. It includes 75 officials and entrepreneurs representing a wide range of industries, including logistics, green energy, mining, innovation and technology, and education," said John Lee.
The Hong Kong Chief Executive noted that the Belt and Road Initiative, put forward by Chinese President Xi Jinping, originated in Kazakhstan and serves as a clear demonstration of the strong and friendly ties between the two countries.
According to him, Hong Kong, as a special administrative region of the PRC, is an active participant in the implementation of this initiative and at the same time receives significant benefits from expanding regional connectivity.
The interlocutors also discussed a number of practical issues on the bilateral agenda and confirmed their mutual interest in further strengthening trade and economic cooperation.
By the Kazakhstanskaya Pravda
