Exclusive | Britain looks to forge closer ties to Hong Kong amid EU exit with biggest innovation festival
Consul general in city Andrew Heyn touts ‘remarkably similar’ aims of two economies concerning innovation, technology, research and development
Britain is forging closer ties with Hong Kong as it prepares for life outside the European Union, the country’s consul general in the city says.
Andrew Heyn said the two economies had “remarkably similar” aims concerning innovation, technology, research and development.
Britain’s biggest trade event of the year, the GREAT Festival of Innovation, will take place in Hong Kong in March. Meanwhile a “strategic dialogue” between the two governments was ongoing, seeking to reduce trade barriers and develop joint initiatives, Heyn said.
“We are now looking into how we can work together on building links in the design, innovation and cultural fields, to deepen the relationships between UK institutions and Hong Kong institutions and companies and governments,” he said.
Britain will continue to speak up for Hong Kong, consul general vows
Britain’s departure from the European Union, scheduled for next year, and its consequent ability to strike its own trade deals was one factor driving these initiatives. Another was a recognition that Britain and Hong Kong had much in common, the consul general added.
