Chan busy projecting SAR's moves for all of Apec to see

Stacy Shi

Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po is telling "true stories" of Hong Kong during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings in San Francisco, says Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu.

Lee praised Chan for doing a good job in expanding the city's "circle of friends" and introducing Hong Kong's attractions and potential to different economies.

Chan attended the Apec Finance Ministers' Meeting on Monday which discussed the current global outlook and fiscal policies of different economies.

Chan said the complex and rapidly changing global order calls for enhanced cooperation among economies, which is conducive to tackling global challenges and boosting post-pandemic economic recovery.

He briefed finance ministers on Hong Kong's economic and financial situation and the city's efforts in nurturing new industries and attracting enterprises.

Chan laid out Hong Kong's strategies on tackling climate change, and green and sustainable finance, including the development of the carbon market.

He outlined Hong Kong's policy directions for promoting sustainable digital asset development, including regulating relevant trading platforms under the "same business, same risk, same regulation" principle and the preparation for regulating stablecoins.

Chan met with Philippine Secretary of Finance Benjamin Diokno to understand the latest economic and social developments.

He will also attend the Apec Economic Leaders' Meeting from today until Friday.

Lee said: "[Chan] has been meeting counterparts from different economies, obviously expanding the circle of friends, and introducing Hong Kong's attraction and potential." He noted how Chan will project "Hong Kong's strength as the conduit between mainland cities and the world."

At the Apec meetings, President Xi Jinping will meet with US counterpart Joe Biden tonight, Hong Kong time.

US national security adviser Jake Sullivan said the two leaders will discuss strengthening communications, controlling competition and hopes it will clear up misunderstandings.