In an effort to promote Hong Kong's unique advantages and vast opportunities for businesses in France, Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau began his visit to the country yesterday by touring a global aeronautic services company in Toulouse.

Mr Yau met Elior Group SA Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Daniel Derichebourg to learn about the company's latest developments.

They also exchanged views on promoting closer business collaboration between Hong Kong and France.

With the assistance of Invest Hong Kong, Elior Group SA has recently set up an Asian headquarters and expanded its presence in Hong Kong.

Earlier this year, the company signed a memorandum of understanding with the Airport Authority to explore the possibility of providing professional services such as aircraft dismantling, parts recycling and related training in Hong Kong, thereby helping Hong Kong develop into the first aircraft parts processing and trading centre in Asia.

Mr Yau pointed out that Hong Kong and France have long-standing business relations and many companies in Hong Kong with parent companies located in France are internationally renowned enterprises.

He added that with the distinct advantages under "one country, two systems", Hong Kong is the premier destination for enterprises around the globe to set up or expand their businesses.

The commerce chief also highlighted that he believes the co-operation between the company and various stakeholders in Hong Kong will help unleash market potential and create new opportunities, leveraging Hong Kong's advantages as a business and investment hub, and its role as a springboard to the Mainland, markets in Asia and beyond.

Furthermore, Mr Yau toured the Derichebourg Aeronautics Training Center and the Airbus assembly lines respectively to learn about the latest advancements in related aeronautic training, aircraft manufacturing and sustainable aviation development.