Financial Secretary Paul Chan says Hong Kong aims to serve as a critical financial bridge for mainland enterprises expanding globally and for Middle Eastern businesses entering Asian markets.

During his visit to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, Chan emphasised that despite increasing global economic fragmentation, ties between Asia and the Middle East are strengthening.

He said the SAR is positioned as the ideal partner to facilitate this growth.

"Hong Kong will further leverage its role as an international financial centre and provider of world-class professional services to support mainland enterprises in going global, expanding their industrial and supply chains, and tapping into overseas markets," Chan said.

"At the same time, Hong Kong stands ready to offer capital and professional services to Middle Eastern businesses seeking to enter the mainland and Asian markets."

He highlighted the city's strengths – a highly internationalised financial system, diversified financing channels and innovative solutions like infrastructure loan securitisation – as key to promoting cross-border capital flows.

The visit also focused on accelerating fintech and capital market collaboration.

Initiatives include fostering the mutual listing of exchange-traded funds and encouraging Middle Eastern companies to list in Hong Kong.

Chan also noted that several start-ups from Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area have already established a presence in the Middle East.

As part of the trip, the delegation met with the Saudi National Bank to explore financial opportunities and with the Digital Cooperation Organisation to discuss enhancing collaboration in the digital economy.

Chan will conclude his visit in Riyadh on Thursday before returning to Hong Kong.