Financial Secretary Paul Chan began his five-day itinerary at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland yesterday.

In the afternoon, he met Minister of Economy of the Sultanate of Oman H E Said Mohammed Al-Saqri. The two sides discussed ways to deepen mutually beneficial co-operation in areas such as finance, trade, green transformation and industrial development.

Mr Chan observed that Oman is transitioning towards a more diversified economy, including through efforts to promote green transformation and renewable energy, and to strengthen its economic and investment ties with China. As a super connector, he said, Hong Kong is well positioned to support this process by facilitating investment by Mainland and Hong Kong enterprises to support Oman's infrastructure and industrial development.

He added that Hong Kong can also render support by leveraging its status as an international financial centre in Asia to offer Omani enterprises a platform for fundraising and financing, as well as offshore renminbi investment and risk management products.

Mr Chan also highlighted that financial market connectivity between the two places can foster mutual development.

He expressed support for the stock exchanges and regulatory authorities of the two places to explore reciprocal co-operation, including opportunities for dual or secondary listings.

In the evening, Mr Chan attended a welcome reception for delegates to the annual meeting, and engaged with participants from around the world.