WIREDGOV

Discussion with Chief Secretary Carrie Lam

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon recently met Hong Kong's Chief Secretary Carrie Lam to discuss opportunities for economic collaboration between Hong Kong and Scotland. Their meeting also focussed on Hong Kong's process of constitutional reform and the shared challenges of in work poverty and meeting the needs of an older population.

The First Minister earlier led a delegation of companies from Scotland's engineering, design, construction, IT security and innovative low carbon sectors to the HK Home Affairs Bureau. The workshop discussions began a dialogue and clearer understanding of opportunities that may emerge for Scottish firms around HK Gov plans to build a major multi purpose sports complex.

Following the meeting with the Chief Secretary the First Minister said recently:

"My discussion with Chief Secretary Carrie Lam was very positive. In areas such as childcare, tackling in work poverty and supporting our elderly population of the future there is much Hong Kong and Scotland can learn from each other.

"The Chief Secretary and I also had a detailed discussion on Hong Kong's progress toward universal suffrage and democratic reform and the importance of building and retaining public trust as part of any reform process.

"Today's meetings have enabled me to bring the historic ties between Hong Kong and Scotland up to date and to put the focus firmly on the opportunity for economic collaboration in the future.

"In research and development, infrastructure and innovation there are very real prospects for Scottish firms to secure contracts, develop partnerships and share skills with both business and the government in Hong Kong.”

Notes To Editors

Pictures of the meeting are available at https://www.flickr.com/photos/firstministerofscotland

The First Minister has been in China and Hong Kong this week to promote Scottish innovation with one of the world’s largest economies as part of a trade visit.

During the visit, the First Minister has undertaken a series of high profile business engagements to promote Scottish business in Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong, including hosting an ‘innovation showcase’ for Scottish companies to meet with Chinese investors, as well as a series of cultural and educational engagements.

Details of the First Minister’s trip are available at www.firstminister.gov.scot and @scotgovfm