The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), John Lee, has embarked on a significant visit to Laos to strengthen ties between Hong Kong and the Southeast Asian nation. Leading a high-level delegation of officials and business leaders, Lee’s visit from Sunday to Tuesday marks a pivotal step in fostering mutual collaboration.
On Monday, Lee engaged in productive talks with Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith. Both sides acknowledged the profound importance of this visit in bolstering future cooperation. The discussions encompassed a wide array of sectors, including economics, trade, investment, finance, banking, education, transportation, health, and tourism.
Highlighting the growing connectivity between the two regions, they noted the positive impact of the weekly direct flights between Hong Kong and Laos. This development has significantly enhanced people-to-people exchanges and business interactions, paving the way for deeper mutual understanding and collaboration.
During his visit, Lee also paid a courtesy call to Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone. Expressing gratitude for the warm hospitality, Lee pledged to work closely with the Lao side to further enhance cooperation across various fields.
A notable outcome of the visit was the signing of 12 agreements aimed at broadening cooperation. These pacts cover key areas such as education, economics and trade, and reciprocal assistance on tariffs, underscoring a shared commitment to mutually beneficial development.
The strengthened partnership between Hong Kong and Laos is poised to bring about significant opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors, academics, and the wider communities in both regions. As they deepen their collaborative efforts, both sides anticipate a future of shared prosperity and enhanced regional integration.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
