A ferry boat sails across the Victoria Harbour on Sept 7, 2023. (SHAMIM ASHRAF / CHINA DAILY)

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu on Tuesday highlighted the importance of boosting regional cooperation, pledging to further strengthen economic ties and people-to-people exchanges with Thailand and other ASEAN countries.

A day earlier, Lee met Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin in Hong Kong. Speaking before the weekly Executive Council meeting on Tuesday, Lee said he appreciated the Thai prime minister’s choice of Hong Kong as one of the destinations for his official visits after taking office, which reflects his confidence in the city. 

He added that Hong Kong has maintained close cooperation with Thailand and the entire ASEAN region. ASEAN, consisting of 10 countries, is Hong Kong’ssecond-largest trading partner. Additionally, Hong Kong has signed a free trade agreement with ASEAN.

Despite the impact of Typhoon Signal No. 8, the city still organized an acitivity on Monday, with numerous ASEAN officials and distinguished political and business figures attending both in person and online.

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He said their enthusiastic participation has demonstrated that the ASEAN nations place great importance on Hong Kong's unique advantages under "one country, two systems", and the city’s role as a bridge connecting the Chinese mainland and the international community, Lee added.

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu (right), meets Prime Minister of Thailand Srettha Thavisin (left) at Government House on Oct 9, 2023. (PHOTO / HKSAR GOVERNMENT)

Lee emphasized Hong Kong's dedication to deepening regional cooperation and further enhancing economic, trade, and investment ties with ASEAN countries. Aiming to foster mutual benefits, Hong Kong seeks to actively contribute to the development of the region, he said.

Lee also expressed gratitude for the support shown by ASEAN countries in Hong Kong's bid to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, adding that he hoped the application can be approved soon. 

In view of the recent devastating conflict between Israel and Palestine, the Hong Kong SAR government issued a red travel alert for Israel. Lee said so far the government has received 28 requests for assistance from Hong Kong residents. Five Hong Kong residents have returned to Hong Kong and 15 have left the area. 

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He said the government is actively communicating with the remaining individuals to provide necessary support and arrangements, prioritizing their well-being.

Lee assured the public that the Hong Kong government will closely monitor the developments and maintain communication with Chinese ambassador in the region.