HK, Indonesia strengthen partnership

The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry plans to send a high-level delegation to visit Hong Kong next year to explore more collaboration opportunities, says Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po.

During his trip to the G20 leaders' summit last week, Chan said many countries agreed that China has pushed the development of the world.

Chan added that he exchanged ideas with various country representatives to enhance business collaboration. One such proposal included having Hong Kong be the platform for the Indonesian government and enterprises to raise funds for - and provide world-class professional services to - the country's infrastructure constructions.

"As an international financial center and Asia's economic, trade and financial hub, Hong Kong is familiar with the Asian market and culture, has a wide network of contacts as well as the unique advantage of facing both international and mainland investors," Chan said.

"The Indonesian business sector is very interested in the services provided by Hong Kong. In fact, the biggest business chamber there - the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry - is actively planning to send a high-level delegation to visit the city next year to explore more collaboration and development opportunities.

"I've also invited some Indonesian friends to attend the Asian Financial Forum in January."

Chan said countries in the Asia-Pacific region should work together to build a stable industrial supply chain and strengthen regional economic cooperation and Hong Kong can better serve its position as a "super-connector."

He added: "Some people have described the 21st century as the 'Asian century.' The Asia-Pacific region accounts for one-third of the world's population, over 60 percent of the world economy and nearly half of global trade - making it the most powerful driving force for global economic growth."

As Hong Kong is resuming connection with the world, government officials will plan more overseas trips to "tell good Hong Kong stories" and seek development opportunities.

wallis.wang@singtaonewscorp.com