Vanuatu seeks Hong Kong’s regulatory expertise, woos investors and tourists

Vanuatu’s leader hopes to strengthen his country’s presence in Hong Kong as the Pacific island nation looks to tap the city’s regulatory expertise, financial markets and investment opportunities.Prime Minister Jotham Napat said on Wednesday that his country had established a “communication mechanism” during his trip to Hong Kong, to improve coordination and deepen ties with the financial hub.He called the visit a “pivotal moment” for bilateral relations, with his delegation holding high-level talks with senior Hong Kong officials, including Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu.“It is encouraging to report that we reached a strong consensus on deepening our political mutual trust and institutional cooperation,” he said. “One of the key outcomes of our discussions is the establishment of a more stable and regular communication mechanism.”He said the mechanism would improve coordination on regional affairs and help strengthen collaboration on development and economic issues.“Our visit has solidified the long-term cooperation foundation between Vanuatu and Hong Kong in areas of mutual interest, such as traditional financial cooperation and trade,” Napat said.Prime Minister Jotham Napat speaks to the Post. Photo: Elson Li