The Financial Secretary, Mr John C Tsang, who is leading a business mission to Kazakhstan, started his visit in Almaty today (September 13) to strengthen economic and trade ties between Hong Kong and Kazakhstan.
 
     Upon arrival this afternoon, Mr Tsang and the mission met with the President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Astana, Mr Peter Foster.  They were briefed about the latest development of logistics and aviation industries in Kazakhstan.  Air Astana operates over 60 domestic and international routes with a fleet of 30 aircraft.
 
     Noting that Kazakhstan is the vital gateway connecting Europe and Asia, Mr Tsang pointed out that Kazakhstan can play an important role in strengthening infrastructure connectivity along the Belt and Road region.  As an international aviation hub, there are enormous potential for Hong Kong to expand collaboration with Kazakhstan in aviation and logistics.
 
     Afterwards, Mr Tsang and the delegation headed to Astana for a dinner hosted by ATF Bank JSC.
 
     Mr Tsang will continue his visit in Astana tomorrow (September 14). He will call on senior government officials of Kazakhstan, speak at a business luncheon organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, and meet with the senior management of the Astana International Financial Centre.

Ends/Tuesday, September 13, 2016
Issued at HKT 22:12

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