The Financial Secretary, Paul Chan, on Sunday said he proactively promoted business opportunities in Hong Kong to enterprises in the UK and France during his first visit to Europe since the Covid outbreak.

Writing on his blog, Chan said he visited life science and green technology enterprises in both countries, highlighting the keen interest shown by several of these firms in expanding their operations to Hong Kong.

Chan said they are optimistic about the SAR's potential to facilitate their business development in the Greater Bay Area, mainland China, and the wider Asian market.

"Hong Kong has a common law system, an excellent reputation of the rule of law, a friendly business environment, and a simple and low taxation. Our regulatory system also meets international standard, making Hong Kong a trustworthy and favourable place which they are familiar with to expand their business." said Chan.

The finance minister also noted that financial and business leaders from the UK and France expressed confidence in Hong Kong's "one country, two systems" principle, common law, and rule of law.

Chan also visited London's Elizabeth line, managed by MTR Elizabeth line, a subsidiary of the MTR Corporation. The subsidiary recently received the Passenger Operator of the Year 2023 in the United Kingdom's National Rail Awards.

Chan said the award showcased Hong Kong's rich experience in infrastructure projects.

"In recent years, our public organisations such as the MTR Corporation and the Airport Authority Hong Kong have been invited to share their management experience and practices in different countries, and operate important transport infrastructure projects there. This has fully displayed Hong Kong's soft power."

Currently in Germany, the finance chief is expected to return to the city on Wednesday.