Chief Executive John Lee today met a visiting delegation of overseas government officials to exchange views on deepening co-operation and issues of mutual concern.

Mr Lee expressed gratitude for the thoughtful arrangements by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region for inviting high-profile officials from 12 countries across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania to visit Hong Kong, enhancing co-operation with countries around the world.

Mr Lee introduced the development opportunities of Hong Kong to the delegation, highlighting that the city has the distinctive advantage of enjoying the strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world under "one country, two systems", serving as an international financial, shipping, and trade centre.

As the world's freest economy, Hong Kong boasts a highly internationalised, market-oriented, and friendly business environment, making it an ideal place for companies to expand their global operations, he added.

The Chief Executive welcomed businesses worldwide to use Hong Kong as a platform to explore overseas and Mainland markets, achieving mutual benefits.

Noting that Hong Kong is expanding its global economic and trade networks, Mr Lee said that it has signed 24 investment agreements covering 33 economies and nine free trade agreements covering 21 economies to date, including the free trade agreement signed with Peru recently.

Mr Lee emphasised that he looks forward to strengthening co-operation with the governments of various countries in the future to help businesses explore more opportunities and promote cultural exchanges.

The delegation is visiting Hong Kong from December 8 to 11, during which they will meet principal officials of the Government, Legislative Councillors and representatives of major institutions.

It also plans to tour the West Kowloon Cultural District and the Science Park to learn about the latest developments in the city.