Chief Executive John Lee today met Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance & Economic Management of Vanuatu Johnny Koanapo Rasou to discuss issues of mutual interest.

Welcoming Mr Rasou and his delegation to Hong Kong to attend economic and trade co-operation events, Mr Lee said the city is leveraging its advantages under the "one country, two systems" principle of connecting the Mainland and the world, and is actively deepening international co-operation.

The Chief Executive said that apart from strengthening traditional markets, Hong Kong will further explore emerging markets comprising Belt & Road countries and expand economic and trade networks with countries of the Global South countries including Vanuatu.

He added that as a functional platform for the Belt & Road Initiative, Hong Kong boasts a highly internationalised, market-oriented, and business-friendly environment, making it an ideal place for companies to expand global operations.

Mr Lee welcomed enterprises from Vanuatu to leverage the city's role as a "super connector" and "super value-adder" to explore overseas and Mainland markets, enhancing trade and business exchanges.