Latest news with #InvestmentPromotionandProtectionAgreement
Daily Tribune
5 days ago
- Business
- Daily Tribune
South Korean firms eye Bahrain as gateway to MENA at business forum
Bahrain's business- and investor-friendly environment was hailed as an ideal gateway to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region during the 7th Bahrain-Korea Business Forum, held yesterday in Manama. The forum brought together over 100 governmental and business representatives from Bahrain and South Korea, underscoring the growing economic partnership between the two nations. Hosted by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in close cooperation with Bahrain's Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the Economic Development Board, Bahrain Chamber, and the Bahrain–South Korea Friendship Society, the forum highlighted opportunities for deeper collaboration in sectors such as ICT, smart farming, K-beauty, and food. Speaking at the event, Dr KOO Heonsang, Korean Ambassador to Bahrain, praised Bahrain's efforts toward economic diversification under the Economic Vision 2030. He said Bahrain's business- and investor-friendly environment makes it an ideal gateway to the MENA region. Ambassador KOO also welcomed the upcoming ratification of the Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement, signed last year between Korea and Bahrain. Once in force, the agreement is expected to create a more secure and predictable environment for cross-border investments. Other key speakers included Abdulla Fakhro, Bahrain's Minister of Industry and Commerce; Mohammed Al Kooheji, Second Vice-Chairman of the Bahrain Chamber; and Ahmed bin Hindi, Chairman of the Bahrain–Korea Friendship Society. They all emphasised the strategic importance of strengthening Bahrain-Korea economic cooperation. Since its inception in 2017, the Bahrain-Korea Business Forum has alternated biennially between the two countries. This year's edition witnessed a record turnout of Korean companies, including CJ ENM, Korea Electric Power Corporation, Posco International, and DAESANG, along with leading government agencies such as KOTRA, NIPA, aT, and KOAT—reflecting the deepening of bilateral ties and growing mutual interest in business collaboration.
Biz Bahrain
15-05-2025
- Business
- Biz Bahrain
UAE Investors Centre inaugurated in Bahrain
The UAE Investors Centre was inaugurated at Bahrain Financial Harbour. The centre, affiliated with Bahrain's Ministry of Industry and Commerce, was launched in the presence of Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy, and Abdullah bin Adel Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce. Fahad Mohammed Salem bin Kardous Al Ameri, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the Kingdom of Bahrain, commended the initiative, describing it as a key step towards enhancing economic and investment cooperation between the UAE and Bahrain. He noted that the centre would open new avenues for UAE investments across various sectors, reflecting the longstanding ties between the two countries and their peoples. The Ambassador said that the establishment of the centre reflects the directives of both leaderships to deepen economic partnership and support sustainable development goals. He highlighted the centre's role as a dedicated platform to facilitate investment flows and strengthen private sector collaboration. He commended the integrated services provided, which include streamlined company registration, commercial licensing, and tailored investment advisory support for UAE investors seeking to grow their business operations in Bahrain. The Ambassador also commended the efforts of the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain in fostering a competitive and welcoming investment environment. He noted Bahrain's commitment to encouraging joint ventures and easing procedures for UAE companies seeking to establish operations in the Kingdom, thereby enhancing Bahrain's position as a leading investment destination in the region. He emphasised that the inauguration coincides with the entry into force of the Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement between the two countries this month. He described this alignment as a significant milestone that will support the launch of new investment initiatives in Bahrain and further develop economic cooperation. He extended his congratulations on this initiative, which he said would contribute to sustainable economic growth and closer commercial ties between the two countries. BNA(R)
The Sun
13-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Hong Kong and Qatar: Partnering for Success
HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 13 May 2025 - Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)'s Chief Executive John Lee is leading a delegation of over 50 business leaders from Hong Kong and Mainland China to Qatar and Kuwait to forge closer connections and promote the city's advantages to the Middle East. This historic visit marks the first time that Mainland entrepreneurs have joined an official overseas Hong Kong delegation. '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'', Mr Lee said. 'Hong Kong is dedicated to capitalising on its connectivity with both Mainland China and the world, collaborating and synergising with economies and enterprises that are eager to pursue high-quality development with us.' The first stop in Qatar (May 10-12) yielded significant results, including the signing and announcement of 35 bilateral accords covering areas such as economic co-operation, investment, finance, legal collaboration and innovation and technology (I&T). These included a tripartite agreement among organisations from Hong Kong, Mainland China and Qatar focusing on fintech collaboration, showcasing Hong Kong's bridging role between different economies. In addition to Hong Kong-Qatar co-operation, two agreements were reached between enterprises from Mainland China and Qatar, fostering co-operation in financial services and high-end manufacturing. Speaking at a business luncheon in Doha (May 12) themed 'Partnering for Success – Hong Kong as a 'Super Connector' and 'Super Value-Adder', Mr Lee unveiled a new arrangement allowing HKSAR passport holders to visit Qatar visa-free for up to 30 days. He also said that Hong Kong and Qatar have substantially concluded the negotiations on an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement. On arriving in Qatar (May 11), Mr Lee met the Amir of the State of Qatar, High Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, and the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, His Excellency Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, to exchange views on strengthening bilateral relations and economic co-operation between Hong Kong and Qatar. Qatar is Hong Kong's third-largest trading partner in the Middle East with bilateral trade in goods worth US$1.6 billion last year. Mr Lee said that there is plenty of room for further growth in trade and business between the two places. During a visit to the Qatar Investment Authority, Mr Lee was briefed on the operation and investment strategies of the sovereign wealth fund, and explored with the Qatar Investment Authority the development and co-operation opportunities for both sides in finance and the economy. With I&T being an area of great potential for bilateral collaboration, Mr Lee and other delegation members visited Lusail City, one of the country's flagship smart cities, to understand how the city integrates I&T with urban planning and infrastructure development. Mr Lee highlighted that both Hong Kong and Qatar attach great importance to technological development and regard artificial intelligence as an engine of new economic development. Delegation members also toured the National Museum of Qatar to learn about the country's history and rich cultural heritage. Before departing for Kuwait, Mr Lee took the chance to visit an autonomous vehicle project at Doha Hamad International Airport. The project is designed by a Mainland Chinese tech firm with its international headquarters in Hong Kong, and first piloted at Hong Kong International Airport. 'This exemplifies our role as a launchpad for global innovation,' Mr Lee said. Mr Lee meets the Amir of the State of Qatar, High Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani (right).
Bahrain News Gazette
13-05-2025
- Business
- Bahrain News Gazette
Hong Kong and Qatar: Partnering for Success
Visa-free travel arrangement and 35 bilateral accords signed HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 May 2025 – Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)'s Chief Executive John Lee is leading a delegation of over 50 business leaders from Hong Kong and Mainland China to Qatar and Kuwait to forge closer connections and promote the city's advantages to the Middle East. This historic visit marks the first time that Mainland entrepreneurs have joined an official overseas Hong Kong delegation. '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'', Mr Lee said. 'Hong Kong is dedicated to capitalising on its connectivity with both Mainland China and the world, collaborating and synergising with economies and enterprises that are eager to pursue high-quality development with us.' The first stop in Qatar (May 10-12) yielded significant results, including the signing and announcement of 35 bilateral accords covering areas such as economic co-operation, investment, finance, legal collaboration and innovation and technology (I&T). These included a tripartite agreement among organisations from Hong Kong, Mainland China and Qatar focusing on fintech collaboration, showcasing Hong Kong's bridging role between different economies. In addition to Hong Kong-Qatar co-operation, two agreements were reached between enterprises from Mainland China and Qatar, fostering co-operation in financial services and high-end manufacturing. HKSAR's Chief Executive John Lee (seventh right) witnesses agreements signed between government department, enterprises, and institutions from Hong Kong, Mainland China and Qatar. Speaking at a business luncheon in Doha (May 12) themed 'Partnering for Success – Hong Kong as a 'Super Connector' and 'Super Value-Adder', Mr Lee unveiled a new arrangement allowing HKSAR passport holders to visit Qatar visa-free for up to 30 days. He also said that Hong Kong and Qatar have substantially concluded the negotiations on an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement. On arriving in Qatar (May 11), Mr Lee met the Amir of the State of Qatar, High Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, and the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, His Excellency Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, to exchange views on strengthening bilateral relations and economic co-operation between Hong Kong and Qatar. Mr Lee meets the Amir of the State of Qatar, High Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani (right). Qatar is Hong Kong's third-largest trading partner in the Middle East with bilateral trade in goods worth US$1.6 billion last year. Mr Lee said that there is plenty of room for further growth in trade and business between the two places. During a visit to the Qatar Investment Authority, Mr Lee was briefed on the operation and investment strategies of the sovereign wealth fund, and explored with the Qatar Investment Authority the development and co-operation opportunities for both sides in finance and the economy. With I&T being an area of great potential for bilateral collaboration, Mr Lee and other delegation members visited Lusail City, one of the country's flagship smart cities, to understand how the city integrates I&T with urban planning and infrastructure development. Mr Lee highlighted that both Hong Kong and Qatar attach great importance to technological development and regard artificial intelligence as an engine of new economic development. Mr Lee tours Lusail City in Qatar. Delegation members also toured the National Museum of Qatar to learn about the country's history and rich cultural heritage. Before departing for Kuwait, Mr Lee took the chance to visit an autonomous vehicle project at Doha Hamad International Airport. The project is designed by a Mainland Chinese tech firm with its international headquarters in Hong Kong, and first piloted at Hong Kong International Airport. 'This exemplifies our role as a launchpad for global innovation,' Mr Lee said.
Arabian Post
13-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
Hong Kong and Qatar: Partnering for Success
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 May 2025 – Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)'s Chief Executive John Lee is leading a delegation of over 50 business leaders from Hong Kong and Mainland China to Qatar and Kuwait to forge closer connections and promote the city's advantages to the Middle East. This historic visit marks the first time that Mainland entrepreneurs have joined an official overseas Hong Kong delegation. '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'', Mr Lee said. 'Hong Kong is dedicated to capitalising on its connectivity with both Mainland China and the world, collaborating and synergising with economies and enterprises that are eager to pursue high-quality development with us.' The first stop in Qatar (May 10-12) yielded significant results, including the signing and announcement of 35 bilateral accords covering areas such as economic co-operation, investment, finance, legal collaboration and innovation and technology (I&T). These included a tripartite agreement among organisations from Hong Kong, Mainland China and Qatar focusing on fintech collaboration, showcasing Hong Kong's bridging role between different economies. In addition to Hong Kong-Qatar co-operation, two agreements were reached between enterprises from Mainland China and Qatar, fostering co-operation in financial services and high-end manufacturing. HKSAR's Chief Executive John Lee (seventh right) witnesses agreements signed between government department, enterprises, and institutions from Hong Kong, Mainland China and Qatar. Speaking at a business luncheon in Doha (May 12) themed 'Partnering for Success – Hong Kong as a 'Super Connector' and 'Super Value-Adder', Mr Lee unveiled a new arrangement allowing HKSAR passport holders to visit Qatar visa-free for up to 30 days. He also said that Hong Kong and Qatar have substantially concluded the negotiations on an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement. On arriving in Qatar (May 11), Mr Lee met the Amir of the State of Qatar, High Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, and the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, His Excellency Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, to exchange views on strengthening bilateral relations and economic co-operation between Hong Kong and Qatar. Mr Lee meets the Amir of the State of Qatar, High Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani (right). Qatar is Hong Kong's third-largest trading partner in the Middle East with bilateral trade in goods worth US$1.6 billion last year. Mr Lee said that there is plenty of room for further growth in trade and business between the two places. During a visit to the Qatar Investment Authority, Mr Lee was briefed on the operation and investment strategies of the sovereign wealth fund, and explored with the Qatar Investment Authority the development and co-operation opportunities for both sides in finance and the economy. With I&T being an area of great potential for bilateral collaboration, Mr Lee and other delegation members visited Lusail City, one of the country's flagship smart cities, to understand how the city integrates I&T with urban planning and infrastructure development. Mr Lee highlighted that both Hong Kong and Qatar attach great importance to technological development and regard artificial intelligence as an engine of new economic development. Mr Lee tours Lusail City in Qatar. Delegation members also toured the National Museum of Qatar to learn about the country's history and rich cultural heritage. See also 0xmd Partners with SENAI CIMATEC to Launch Operations in Brazil Before departing for Kuwait, Mr Lee took the chance to visit an autonomous vehicle project at Doha Hamad International Airport. The project is designed by a Mainland Chinese tech firm with its international headquarters in Hong Kong, and first piloted at Hong Kong International Airport. 'This exemplifies our role as a launchpad for global innovation,' Mr Lee said. Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #asiasworldcity #collaboration #partnering #Qatar #beltandroad The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
