Chief Executive John Lee expressed hope on Monday that Hong Kong and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) could strengthen collaboration in areas such as transition finance, technology and innovation, and talent development to jointly advance regional economic prosperity.

In a statement, Lee said he met with AIIB President Zou Jiayi at Government House to exchange views on deepening regional financial cooperation.

Zou and her delegation are in the SAR for the two-day Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation finance ministers' meeting, which kicks off on Tuesday.

Lee said Hong Kong, as an AIIB member, has always supported the multilateral bank's mission to help developing economies improve their infrastructure and promote sustainable growth.

He noted that Hong Kong is well placed to provide capital allocation support for AIIB projects through its vibrant capital market, world-class professional services and diversified financial products.

Expressing pleasure over the AIIB's plan to establish an office in Hong Kong to serve both financing and operational functions, Lee was confident the move would create more opportunities for the local financial sector while deepening cooperation and exchanges.

He also welcomed the AIIB's continued use of Hong Kong's strengths as an international financial hub and its mature and comprehensive bond market to connect with global investors.

Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Christopher Hui also attended the meeting.



Edited by Edmond Fong