Hong Kong's Paul Chan pledges second Saudi Arabia trip to boost Mideast ties
Hong Kong hosts LEAP East 2026, first overseas edition, as Chan announces return visit.
Hong Kong’s finance chief Paul Chan Mo-po used the opening of LEAP East 2026 — the first overseas edition of Saudi Arabia’s flagship technology conference — to announce a second business delegation to the kingdom later this year. The trip, which follows Chan’s initial visit in October 2025, will include representatives from companies specializing in infrastructure, green technology, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and professionals from finance, investment, and professional services sectors.
Speaking at the conference, Chan praised Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 diversification plan and emphasized the complementary roles of Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia as gateways to Asia and the Middle East, respectively. He also confirmed that LEAP East will be held annually in Hong Kong for at least the next three years, cementing the city’s role as a bridge between China and the Gulf region. The move underscores Hong Kong’s strategic push to strengthen economic and tech ties with the Middle East amid global shifts in capital and innovation flows.
- Paul Chan will lead a second delegation to Saudi Arabia since October 2025, covering infrastructure, green tech, healthcare, and finance.
- LEAP East 2026 is the first overseas edition of Saudi Arabia’s top tech conference, hosted in Hong Kong.
- Hong Kong secured LEAP East as an annual event for the next three years.
Why It Matters
Hong Kong deepens Middle East ties, positioning itself as Asia’s gateway for Saudi Vision 2030 investments and tech collaboration.