The Secretary for Development, Mr Eric Ma, attended a networking luncheon organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Hong Kong Business Association of Cambodia in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, today (February 27) and delivered a keynote speech.

     Leading a Hong Kong delegation to promote the development of professional services and business co-operation between Hong Kong and Cambodia, Mr Ma said he looked forward to a closer relationship between Cambodia and Hong Kong in infrastructure development and professional services sectors.

     He said that the professional services sector is a cornerstone of Hong Kong's growing economy and Hong Kong stands ready to make substantial contributions to Cambodia's infrastructure development.

     "Hong Kong's construction industry is experiencing a peak with several mega projects. Last year, the total value of our various construction works was about US$30 billion. Throughout these years, our professionals and contractors have accumulated a wealth of experience, expertise and management know-how in taking forward projects of different scales," he said.

     Mr Ma also said that Hong Kong can play the role of a "super-connector" under the Belt and Road Initiative.

     "Cambodia is one of the major economies along China's 21st Century Maritime Silk Road. Under the Belt and Road Initiative, we foresee closer co-operation between Cambodia and China. Hong Kong, as the 'super-connector' between the Mainland of China and other countries, can certainly facilitate further exchanges," he said.

     During his stay in Phnom Penh, Mr Ma called on the Senior Minister of the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction, Mr Chea Sophara, to learn about the city's town planning and infrastructure.

     The delegation also met with the Minister attached to the Prime Minister and Secretary General of the Council for the Development of Cambodia, Mr Sok Chenda Sophea, to gain a better understanding of the city's latest development and investment opportunities.

     The delegation then met with the Chairman of the Cambodia Constructors Association, Mr Pung Kheav Se, to exchange views on the co-operation opportunities between the two places. Members also had discussions with representatives from the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce on the business environment and co-operation opportunities.

     The delegation includes government officials, a representative from the HKTDC, members of the Working Group on Professional Services under the Economic Development Commission, and representatives from the construction-related, legal, accounting and company secretary sectors.

     Accompanying Mr Ma on the visit were the Deputy Secretary for Development (Works), Mr Vincent Mak, and member of the Central Policy Unit Mr Lee Tak-keung.

     The delegation will visit two real estate and commercial development companies in Phnom Penh tomorrow (February 28) and will depart for Jakarta, Indonesia, in the late afternoon.

Ends/Monday, February 27, 2017
Issued at HKT 19:46

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