23rd December 2024 – (Tokyo) The Legislative Council (LegCo) delegation, led by President Andrew Leung, continued its duty visit to Japan today, 23rd December, engaging in discussions with various Japanese government departments.
During a meeting with Japan’s Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Taku Eto, LegCo members highlighted Hong Kong as Japan’s second-largest export market for agricultural and fisheries products. They emphasised the high food safety standards expected by Hong Kong citizens and sought insights into Japan’s measures for ensuring the safety of its exported goods.
The delegation also met with Hisayuki Fujii, State Minister for Foreign Affairs, discussing the positive impact of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance implemented earlier this year. Members noted that this legislation has fostered a safer environment in Hong Kong, enhancing protection for foreign investors, including Japanese firms. They welcomed the Ministry’s interest in visiting Hong Kong to gain a better understanding of the local situation.
Further discussions took place with Takehiko Matsuo, Vice-Minister for International Affairs at the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. The two sides exchanged views on bilateral economic cooperation, innovation, technology, and regional development. Members asserted that Hong Kong’s early accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) would significantly benefit regional economic growth.
In the afternoon, the delegation toured the National Diet of Japan, visiting the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors. They engaged with Hiroyuki Nagahama, Vice-President of the House of Councillors, discussing ways to enhance dialogue between Hong Kong and Japan, particularly regarding food safety. The delegation requested Japan’s support for Hong Kong’s RCEP accession, which would bolster its role in regional economic initiatives.
The delegation also met with Koichiro Gemba, Vice Speaker of the House of Representatives, to discuss promoting Hong Kong’s strengths within Japan’s business and political spheres. They expressed a shared desire for closer ties between the parliaments of Hong Kong and Japan.
Additionally, the delegation convened with Hanako Jimi, chairman of the Japan-Hong Kong Parliamentarians Caucus, to discuss parliamentary collaborations and further exchanges between the two regions.
During a visit to Toyosu Market, members interacted with wholesalers, learning about Hong Kong’s significance as an export destination. They noted the proposed food market for imported fresh produce in this year’s Policy Address as a potential model for attracting tourism, drawing inspiration from Toyosu Market’s operations.
The delegation also engaged with the Japan Business Federation, exploring opportunities for Hong Kong to assist Japanese enterprises in accessing the Mainland China market.
In the evening, the delegation met with Wu Jianghao, the Chinese Ambassador to Japan, to discuss leveraging Hong Kong’s unique position under “one country, two systems” to deepen economic and cultural exchanges with Japan. They expressed appreciation for the Ambassador’s support during their visit.
The delegation is set to conclude its duty visit and return to Hong Kong tomorrow, 24th December.
