Seven MoUs signed to consolidate relationships between Hong Kong and Singapore: John Lee

Seven memorandums of understanding (MoU) that include economic, financial, and academic research were signed to facilitate cooperation between Hong Kong and Singapore, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said after meeting with Singaporean prime minister Lee Hsien Loong.

There were also plans to reopen the civil servant exchange scheme between the two locations, which was halted due to the pandemic. 

The Hong Kong leader also told Lee Hsien Loong that he looks forward to more Singaporean businesses settling down in Hong Kong and as a path to gain greater access to the mainland market. 

John Lee added that Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia all support Hong Kong's bid to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), and the purpose of this trip is to consolidate their support and hope that more other RCEP members welcome Hong Kong.

He stated that joining the RCEP is an important step in strengthening Hong Kong's relationship with ASEAN, and the government stands ready to engage in exploratory discussions with RCEP members to deepen mutual understanding and lay the groundwork for the ensuing formal negotiations.

The Hong Kong chief added that the two objectives of his trip are to strengthen the friendship between the ASEAN countries and improve cooperation, in addition to showcasing Hong Kong's financial, business, and logistical situations to ASEAN member nations, which allows them to see the new opportunities and developments that can be found in Hong Kong.