Hong Kong leader eyes closer ties with Uzbekistan to boost strategic partnership

Chief Executive John Lee of Hong Kong held discussions in Tashkent on Wednesday with Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov of Uzbekistan, as both parties look to strengthen bilateral ties. 

According to local news website Uz Daily, officials have framed the meeting as a move to build on the existing strategic partnership between China and Uzbekistan, while simultaneously creating new pathways for collaboration between Hong Kong and the Central Asian nation.

During the talks, the two sides explored a diverse range of sectors for potential partnership, including finance, investment, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and logistics. A particular emphasis was placed on fostering business-to-business connections and supporting interregional development through new, shared initiatives.

[See more: Hong Kong secures transport links and dozens of cooperation deals in Central Asia]

Saidov highlighted Hong Kong’s status as a premier international business and financial hub, noting that the city’s unique expertise could help in the development of joint high-tech ventures.

The discussions also yielded a breakthrough regarding travel, with both sides exchanging notes on a proposal to establish a mutual visa-free regime. New rules will see the length of visa-free stays of 30 days granted to citizens of both countries.

This initiative is anticipated to simplify travel and provide a substantial boost to tourism, commercial links, and cross-cultural exchanges between Hong Kong and Uzbekistan.