John Lee Begins Kazakhstan Visit, Expects Expanded 'Belt and Road' Cooperation

Chief Executive John Lee commenced his visit to Kazakhstan, expressing confidence that the trip will open a new chapter for long-term economic and trade cooperation between Hong Kong and Central Asian countries, anticipating fruitful results.

Mon Jun 01 2026

Chief Executive John Lee Embarks on Kazakhstan Visit, Anticipating Economic Collaboration

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee has begun his visit to Kazakhstan, stating that there is extensive room for cooperation between Hong Kong and the Central Asian region. Lee expressed confidence that this visit would initiate a new chapter for long-term economic and trade cooperation among Hong Kong, mainland China, and the two Central Asian nations. He also anticipates substantial achievements from the trip, noting that the delegation includes Chief Secretary for Administration Eric Chan and Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Algernon Yau, alongside approximately 70 business representatives from Hong Kong and the mainland.

'Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge' Policy Extended, Economic Indicators Released

Guangdong Provincial Government announced a five-year extension for the 'Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge' policy, effective until June 1, 2031. The China Hong Kong & Macau Motor Transport Association hopes that the three governments of Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao will formulate short, medium, and long-term plans to address traffic congestion at the Zhuhai port during holidays and weekends. Meanwhile, Financial Secretary Paul Chan reported that Hong Kong's economy maintained robust growth in the second quarter. In April, the total value of merchandise exports surged by 42.9% year-on-year, primarily driven by exports of AI-related electronic products. Despite external uncertainties, the government maintained its forecast for 2026 annual economic growth at 2.5% to 3.5%. Ms. Clara Chan, Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Investment Corporation, predicted that the internal rate of return (IRR) would reach double digits by the end of 2025.