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The Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, will lead a high-level business delegation to Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) between January 25 and February 1.
"The mission of the trip is to introduce Hong Kong's strengths and attractiveness as an international financial centre to business and political leaders in the Middle East. Being a major asset management centre in Asia and a gateway to the Mainland market, Hong Kong provides enormous business opportunities for Middle East investors," the Chief Executive said.
"Islamic finance offers huge potential for development. As mentioned in my Policy Address, we will leverage on this new trend by developing an Islamic finance platform in Hong Kong," Mr Tsang said.
This is the Chief Executive's first visit to the Middle East since he took up office in 2005.
During his visit, Mr Tsang will meet senior government officials and business leaders; visit leading financial institutions, and address business luncheons.
Accompanying Mr Tsang on the visit will be the Director of the Chief Executive's Office, Mr Norman Chan; the Private Secretary to Chief Executive, Mr Kenneth Mak; and the Information Co-ordinator, Mr Andy Ho.
During Mr Tsang's absence, the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Henry Tang, will be the acting Chief Executive.
Ends/Monday, January 14, 2008
Issued at HKT 11:44
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