Chief Executive CY Leung has concluded his visit to Israel by visiting institutes and technology startups, and attending a Hong Kong Trade Development Council reception.
He toured the Weizmann Institute of Science in Tel Aviv, to learn about its research work.
"We enjoy the free flow of capital, robust intellectual rights protection, a tradition of the common law system, the popular use of English, and a strong commitment to a level playing field for all businesses," Mr Leung said, adding he hoped there could be more cooperation in research between the two places in future.
Tel Aviv Mayor Ron Huldai then accompanied Mr Leung on a meeting with two technology start-up companies.
The Chief Executive encouraged the Hong Kong delegation to learn from Tel Aviv’s experience in becoming the “Start-up City” and to draw inspiration on ways Hong Kong can promote its own technology start-up ecosystem.
On a tour of the Tel Aviv University campus, Mr Leung was briefed on its comprehensive technology transfer programme, technological inventions and research outcomes.
He hoped to see more joint efforts between Hong Kong and Israel in higher education and scientific research in future.
In an address at a cocktail reception to mark the opening of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council’s Tel Aviv Consultant Office, Mr Leung highlighted Hong Kong’s advantages and potential as the dealmaker for China’s Belt & Road initiatives.
“As Israeli companies increasingly look to Asian markets for their world-class technology and design products and services, they are turning to Hong Kong, for good reasons," he said.
“From a business standpoint, the combined advantage of 'one country' and 'two systems' is unparalleled and unrivaled. It gives us and our business partners advantages no other economy in the world can offer.
“Belt & Road is premised on a win-win approach through bilateral and multilateral trade, enhanced market access, increased technology exchanges and transfers and greater investment opportunities, better infrastructure and more efficient operations in participating economies. Connectivity is the key in this initiative. Along the way, Hong Kong has much to offer, and Israel has much to gain, through Hong Kong, in the development of Belt & Road,” he added.
He hoped the new office could enhance two-way trade between Hong Kong and Israel.
