Hong Kong will maintain its status as a free port, sustain a simple and low-tax regime, and implement open and stable economic and trade policies under the "one country, two systems" framework, despite significant uncertainties facing the global economy currently, the city’s finance chief said on Tuesday.
Paul Chan Mo-po made the statement when he met Ambassador Charlene Barshefsky, chair of the National Committee on United States-China Relations (NCUSCR) and former US Trade Representative, in New York.
Upon his arrival in the US city on Tuesday, Chan attended the annual NCUSCR gala dinner, where he exchanged views with Ambassador Barshefsky.
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They talked about current China-US economic and trade relations and issues relating to trade, investment, and financial markets between Hong Kong and the US. Chan also briefed Ambassador Barshefsky on the latest developments in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, according to a government statement.
Noting the strong and close economic and trade ties between Hong Kong and the US, he said the SAR continues to welcome US businesses to invest and expand their presence in the city.
Recognizing the important role the NCUSCR has long played in promoting Hong Kong-US economic and trade relations, Chan expressed his hope for continued close cooperation with the committee to create more opportunities for the business communities of both places.
The gala dinner is a major annual event organized by the NCUSCR, bringing together prominent political, business and academic leaders from both China and the US to facilitate exchanges and cooperation.
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Around 300 leaders and guests, including China's Ambassador to the US, Xie Feng, attended this year's event. Xie also delivered a speech at the dinner.
On Wednesday, Chan is scheduled to meet political and business leaders in New York to share the latest developments and opportunities in Hong Kong.
