Qatar emphasized the potential to deepen trade and investment ties with Hong Kong and enhance economic connectivity with Asian markets during the 11th Belt and Road Summit held in Hong Kong. The event, hosted by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region under the theme “Advancing High-Quality Development • Embarking on a New Journey,” convened senior government officials, business leaders, and representatives from regional and international organisations to discuss ways to promote economic cooperation and sustainable development.
Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Trade, HE Dr Ahmad bin Mohammed Al-Sayed, participated in the summit as part of the country’s ongoing efforts to expand international economic partnerships amid shifting global economic conditions. Speaking in a policy dialogue titled “Building Resilient Trade and Investment Frameworks in a Diverse Global Landscape,” Dr Al-Sayed described the summit as a critical platform for fostering dialogue, exploring cooperation opportunities, and laying the groundwork for economic partnerships responsive to rapid global changes.
Highlighting Hong Kong’s status as a key global hub for trade, investment, financial services, and logistics, Dr Al-Sayed noted the territory’s strategic position as an opportunity to strengthen Qatar’s economic relations with Asia. Bilateral trade between Qatar and Hong Kong has reached approximately $1.7 billion over the last four years, reflecting growing economic engagement between the two sides.
The minister pointed out that several Hong Kong companies are already active in Qatar, while significant potential remains to further develop trade and investment relations. He advocated for increased cooperation through trade exhibitions and fairs to promote Qatari products and foster direct business-to-business interactions that could open new markets for Qatari enterprises across Asia.
Dr Al-Sayed also invited Hong Kong investors and companies to take advantage of Qatar’s investment environment, including incentives and services available through the country’s free zones. He highlighted the prospects for forming high-value partnerships across various sectors, enabling Hong Kong firms to not only serve the Qatari domestic market but also access broader regional markets from Qatar.
On the sidelines of the summit, Dr Al-Sayed held a meeting with John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, to discuss strengthening bilateral economic and trade relations. The minister additionally met senior officials from several Asian countries, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, as well as Hong Kong’s commerce and finance secretaries. These discussions focused on enhancing cooperation and expanding trade and investment partnerships.
Dr Al-Sayed further engaged with representatives of leading international companies to explore potential collaboration and investment opportunities, underscoring Qatar’s commitment to fostering diversified and sustainable economic growth through strategic global partnerships.