Hong Kong leader John Lee, EU officials meet to discuss trade, cooperation

AdvertisementHong Kong economyHong KongHong Kong EconomyHong Kong leader John Lee, EU officials meet to discuss trade, cooperationEU ambassador describes lunch meeting as a ‘constructive and in-depth exchange on EU-Hong Kong relations’2-MIN READ2-MIN ListenConnor MycroftPublished: 11:19pm, 16 Apr 2026Updated: 11:53pm, 16 Apr 2026Hong Kong leader John Lee Ka-chiu has met European Union representatives to discuss opportunities for cooperation, with the chief executive saying both sides highlighted a shared belief in multilateralism amid increasing tensions and market turmoil.Ambassador Harvey Rouse, head of the EU Office in Hong Kong, called for both sides to work together, describing the 27-member bloc as a “very dependable partner in an increasingly volatile world”.Local officials attending the lunch meeting on Tuesday included Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Christopher Hui Ching-yu and commerce minister Algernon Yau Ying-wah.AdvertisementRepresentatives from EU member states’ local diplomatic missions included consuls-general from France, Germany, Belgium and Finland, among others.In a social media post on Thursday, Lee said both sides exchanged views on economic and development issues, enhancing understanding and exploring areas for more cooperation.Advertisement“Faced with increasing tensions and market turmoil, Hong Kong and the European Union have a strong consensus on safeguarding multilateralism, supporting organisations that follow international rules, and emphasising open cooperation,” Lee said.“Hong Kong will continue to work with the EU and other like-minded economies to safeguard free and open trade, strengthen cooperation, build bridges and build a mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation.”AdvertisementSelect VoiceSelect Speed0.8x0.9x1.0x1.1x1.2x1.5x1.75x00:0000:001.00x