29th May 2023 – (Hong Kong) Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, John Lee, expressed his happiness to meet with the President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Mr Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, at the Government House on 29th May. During the meeting, Lee highlighted that Hong Kong was the DRC’s 8th largest trading partner in 2020, with an average annual growth rate of 12% in bilateral trade from 2018 to 2022.
Lee also emphasized that Hong Kong plays a crucial role as a key link in China’s Belt and Road Initiative and can provide support for over 180 participating countries, including the DRC and other African countries, as well as international organizations. He expressed his belief that both parties will continue to explore new opportunities for collaboration and develop sustainable economic and trade partnerships in the future.
The meeting between the two leaders marks an important milestone in the relationship between Hong Kong and the DRC. As Hong Kong continues to strengthen its ties with African countries, the meeting presents an opportunity to further enhance economic and trade relations between the two regions.
The Belt and Road Initiative is a global development strategy that aims to connect Asia, Europe, and Africa by building infrastructure, strengthening trade, and promoting economic cooperation. As one of the key links in this initiative, Hong Kong is strategically positioned to provide logistical and financial support to participating countries.
With its well-established legal system, advanced financial infrastructure, and strategic location, Hong Kong has becomean important hub for international trade and investment. As such, it has been actively involved in promoting economic cooperation with countries along the Belt and Road Initiative, including those in Africa.
The DRC, which is rich in natural resources, has been seeking to diversify its economy and attract foreign investment. In recent years, it has been working closely with Hong Kong and other countries to explore new opportunities for collaboration and economic development. The meeting between Lee and Tshisekedi presents an opportunity to further enhance the economic and trade relations between Hong Kong and the DRC.
During the meeting, Lee also expressed his interest in exploring new areas of cooperation between Hong Kong and the DRC. This includes areas such as technology, innovation, and sustainable development. Lee believes that Hong Kong can leverage its strengths in these areas to support the DRC’s economic development and promote sustainable growth.
Overall, the meeting between Lee and Tshisekedi highlights the importance of strengthening economic and trade relations between Hong Kong and the DRC. As Hong Kong continues to play a key role in China’s Belt and Road Initiative, it presents an opportunity for the city to deepen its engagement with African countries and promote sustainable development in the region.