By South China Morning Post | Created at 2025-03-20 16:01:14 | Updated at 2025-03-21 05:27:42
13 hours ago
Beijing’s point man on Hong Kong affairs has underscored the central government’s determination to maintain the city’s “free and open” business environment at a meeting with a European trade group.
Xia Baolong, director of Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, also urged the European Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong (EuroCham) to make it easier for firms from the continent to develop in the city while acknowledging the group’s contributions as he received the delegation in Beijing on Thursday.
“Xia said the Chinese government has always insisted on implementing the ‘one country, two systems’ principle comprehensively, accurately and unswervingly and fully supported Hong Kong in maintaining its unique status and advantages in the long term,” a statement from his office said, referring to the framework under which the city is governed.
“[Beijing] supports Hong Kong in maintaining its open, free and regulated business environment, strengthening and expanding its exchanges and cooperation with different countries and places all over the world in creating better conditions for companies from different places, including Europe, to develop in the city.”
Xia, receiving the first delegation EuroCham has sent to the capital, called on the business group to continue to play to its strengths in promoting the development of European companies in Hong Kong and contributing to the city’s long-term prosperity.
According to the office, Xia praised the group for its optimism on China and the city, its support for the local government and its efforts in promoting long-term investment by European companies in Hong Kong.
