CE begins Beijing visit

Chief Executive John Lee arrived in Beijing today, beginning a series of engagements in the nation’s capital.

Calling on the Ministry of Finance, Mr Lee met Minister of Finance Lan Fo’an for an exchange of views on various topics, including ways to enhance financial co-operation between the Mainland and Hong Kong.

He thanked the ministry for its continued support of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government’s financial policies, highlighting that its issue of renminbi sovereign bonds in Hong Kong for 15 consecutive years underscores the country’s support for the city as an international financial centre and global offshore RMB business hub.

Mr Lee said the Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to encourage local governments on the Mainland to issue offshore RMB bonds and green bonds in Hong Kong, and to utilise Hong Kong’s financial system and professional services, which are in line with international standards, to promote the RMB’s internationalisation and the green transition of their economies.

The Chief Executive then witnessed the signing of two co-operation agreements between the Hong Kong Jockey Club and the National Health Commission to enhance the training of health professionals.

He also witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Health Bureau and the club on a local programme for infectious disease prevention and preparedness.

Emphasising the importance of cross-boundary medical collaboration, Mr Lee said various initiatives will be taken forward in the future, including the establishment of a Greater Bay Area international clinical trial institute. He added that the Hong Kong SAR Government will participate in internationalising national hospital accreditation standards.

Mr Lee will attend the opening meeting of the second annual session of the 14th National People’s Congress tomorrow.