The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (Brussels ETO) hosted Chinese New Year receptions in Luxembourg on February 11, followed by Istanbul, Türkiye on February 12, as part of the celebration series for the Year of the Horse.

     In her welcoming remarks in Istanbul, the Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the European Union, Ms Shirley Yung, described 2026 as a year of renewed opportunities for Hong Kong and Türkiye, following the coming into force of two landmark agreements between the two places, namely the Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement and the Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement, which marked an important milestone in strengthening bilateral economic ties and laid a strong foundation for deeper cooperation in the years ahead.

     Ms Yung reaffirmed Hong Kong's long-standing commitment to free and open markets. "Amid rising tariffs, Hong Kong continues to uphold our status as a free port, with the free flow of capital, goods, talent and information. We stay aligned with rule-based international standards, and keep our tax system simple and low," she said.

     Ms Yung also highlighted Hong Kong's unique strengths premised on the "one country, two systems" framework, as well as the initiatives to reinforce HK's position as a "super connector", including the "Go Global" initiative, which leverages Hong Kong's fundraising and professional services to support Chinese Mainland enterprises in their global expansion and supply chain diversification.

     Brussels ETO took the opportunity to showcase Hong Kong's unique East-meets-West culture in Istanbul by inviting the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra to stage a Chinese musical performance featuring iconic Hong Kong and festive melodies, which captivated local guests.

     Deputy Representative of Brussels ETO, Miss Fiona Li officiated at the reception in Luxembourg, where she highlighted Hong Kong's continued economic expansion and its strength as a leading international financial centre. She noted the city's resilient trade performance, revitalised capital markets and strong fundraising activity, reaffirming Hong Kong's position as a premier global IPO hub.

     Miss Li also emphasised Hong Kong's growing attractiveness to international investors, particularly in asset and wealth management. Sustained capital inflows reflect confidence in Hong Kong's business prospects, reinforcing its role as a trusted gateway for global investors seeking diversification in Asia.

     The events in Luxembourg and Istanbul were attended by over 460 guests from government, financial and business sectors, academia, cultural and creative sectors, media, and the Chinese community. The receptions were co-organised by the Brussels ETO, Invest Hong Kong, and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, with support from local partners. In Luxembourg, the reception was co-organised by the Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce and the China-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce.

Ends/Tuesday, February 17, 2026
Issued at HKT 20:02

NNNN