As a highly internationalized economy, Hong Kong has a close economic and trade relationship with ASEAN, which has become Hong Kong's second largest trading partner and fifth largest destination for foreign investment. The establishment of a free trade agreement between Hong Kong and ASEAN will promote economic development for both parties, benefiting investors immigrating to Hong Kong in exploring overseas markets in ASEAN, and better serving as a bridge between Hong Kong's investment immigrants and ASEAN trade. Recently, during the second ASEAN Development Forum hosted by the Asia-Pacific Daily, the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Leung Chun-ying, specifically stated that Hong Kong possesses unique advantages and can play the role of a super connector between Mainland China and ASEAN in the development of the "Belt and Road" initiative and ASEAN.
Leung Chun-ying announced that Hong Kong will establish an economic and trade office in Jakarta, Indonesia, to strengthen exchanges and connections between Hong Kong and Indonesia as well as ASEAN as a whole. At the beginning of this month, Hong Kong and ASEAN completed a new round of meetings regarding the free trade agreement, with expectations to reach an agreement within the year. He anticipates that Hong Kong can play a greater role in promoting cooperation between Mainland China and ASEAN.
Leung Chun-ying stated that Hong Kong has the dual advantage of "one country, two systems"; Hong Kong is part of China while implementing a different system from the Mainland. The Basic Law authorizes Hong Kong to participate in international organizations and to sign agreements with foreign entities. These unique advantages and experiences of Hong Kong contribute to its role as a super connector between Mainland China and ASEAN in the development of the "Belt and Road" initiative and ASEAN.
Additionally, various sectors in Hong Kong have long-standing, close, and friendly relations with the ASEAN region. These individuals and civil organizations can promote two-way exchanges between Hong Kong and countries along the "Belt and Road" in areas such as culture, education, and youth, thereby enhancing Hong Kong's relations with various countries, providing a solid social foundation for participating in the construction of the "Belt and Road," and promoting connectivity in other areas.