Pakistan urges Hong Kong to resume Cathay Pacific flights

Pakistan has urged Hong Kong to explore the resumption of Cathay Pacific flights to the country, saying improved air connectivity could help boost trade, tourism and business-to-business linkages between the two sides. The development came during a meeting between Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), China, John Lee Ka-Chiu, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepen trade, economic cooperation and people-to-people linkages between Pakistan and Hong Kong, read a statement on Friday. Seeking to unlock new avenues of cooperation, Jam Kamal called for greater engagement in trade in services, aviation, finance and business-to-business connectivity. He particularly urged Hong Kong to explore the resumption of Cathay Pacific flights to Pakistan, saying improved air connectivity could support business, tourism and commercial exchanges. The minister highlighted the presence of a significant Pakistani diaspora in Hong Kong and acknowledged its valuable contribution to Pakistan’s economy, particularly through remittances and stronger people-to-people linkages. Jam Kamal thanked the chief executive for Hong Kong’s warm hospitality and reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to its historic relationship with China, while emphasising the importance Pakistan attaches to expanding its trade and economic partnership with Hong Kong. During the meeting, the chief executive appreciated Jam Kamal’s address at the Belt and Road Summit earlier in the day, particularly his message of international cooperation, connectivity and shared economic prosperity. John Lee thanked Pakistan for its role in promoting peace and contributing towards regional stability, noting that reduced tensions and greater stability were vital for global economic growth. He also appreciated Pakistan’s leadership and constructive engagement in this regard. The chief executive highlighted the longstanding and close relationship between Pakistan and China and acknowledged its positive contribution to the Belt and Road Initiative. He also appreciated the efforts of the Consulate General of Pakistan in Hong Kong for bringing the two sides closer and promoting greater exchanges in recent years. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen cooperation and explore new areas of mutual economic interest. Jam Kamal also extended an invitation to Chief Executive John K. C. Lee to visit Pakistan.

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