Political and business leaders in Qatar on May 12 expressed their keen interest in strengthening exchanges and enhancing trade and investment cooperation with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) of China.

A delegation led by HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee concluded a two-day visit to Qatar on Monday, promoting Hong Kong and exploring opportunities for cooperation.

During an event themed "Partnering for Success -- Hong Kong as a 'super Connector' and 'Super Value-Adder'," Qatari Minister of Finance Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari said that Hong Kong serves as a gateway to Asia, while Doha acts as a gateway to the Middle East.

"At a time when many traditional relationships and international norms are in flux, our economies must remain open to each other," Al Kuwari said. He expressed hope that the visit would further boost trade and investment between the two sides.

Sheikh Khalifa Bin Jassim Al Thani, chairman of Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said Qatar looks forward to deepening cooperation across various sectors, especially in the private sector, including trade, finance, and investment. He encouraged Qatari entrepreneurs and investors to explore opportunities in Hong Kong.

Lee said the Hong Kong delegation comprises over 50 professionals and leaders of enterprises from Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland.

"The composition of the delegation demonstrates Hong Kong's unique role as a 'super connector' and 'super value-adder' under the principle of 'one country, two systems'," Lee said.

Qatar is currently Hong Kong's third-largest trading partner in the Middle East, he said.

"During this visit, we have achieved 35 MoUs (the memorandums of understanding) and agreements spanning trade, investment, technology, legal co-operation, financial markets and so on," he added.