HSBC Group chairman Mark Tucker also met Chinese Vice-President Han Zheng on Wednesday and was asked to contribute to fostering the country’s relations with Britain and Europe.
Xia Baolong, director of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, told the delegation led by Tucker that the central government was determined to support the city’s unique status and advantages under the “one country, two systems” governing principle.
“Xia has acknowledged the HSBC Group for its long-term optimism over China and Hong Kong, and its active participation in the city’s economic and social development, especially its contribution to [the hub’s role as] an international financial centre,” a statement from the office read.
“It is hoped that the HSBC Group will have better development in China and be more active in helping Hong Kong cement its role as an international financial centre, continue to play to its strengths in serving as an important bridge in Sino-China relations and tell the stories about China and Hong Kong well to the international community.”
Beijing was determined to protect the “free, open and regulated” business environment in Hong Kong in creating better conditions for overseas companies to develop in the city, Xia added.
