HONG KONG:

Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan has urged Hong Kong to explore the resumption of Cathay Pacific flights to Pakistan, saying improved air connectivity could support business, tourism and commercial exchanges.

During a meeting with Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Chief Executive John Lee Ka-Chiu, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepen trade, economic cooperation and people-to-people linkages, according to a statement issued on Friday.

The chief executive appreciated Khan’s address at the Belt and Road Summit, particularly his message of international cooperation, connectivity and shared economic prosperity. He thanked Pakistan for its role in promoting peace and contributing towards regional stability, noting that reduced tensions and greater stability were vital for global economic growth.

The minister thanked Lee for Hong Kong’s hospitality and reiterated commitment to the historic relationship with China, emphasising the importance Pakistan attaches to expanding its trade and economic partnership with Hong Kong. He highlighted the presence of a significant Pakistani diaspora in Hong Kong and its contribution through remittances.

The minister called for greater engagement in trade in services, aviation, finance and business-to-business connectivity, and invited Lee to visit Pakistan.