Strengthening Hong Kong-Turkey Ties Through Increased Flights
Turkey’s Consul General in Hong Kong, Kerim Sercan Evcin, has emphasized the potential for deepening ties between Hong Kong and Turkey by increasing the number of direct flights. He highlighted how enhancing connectivity between the two regions would not only strengthen bilateral relations but also reinforce Hong Kong’s status as a global hub. Currently, Turkish Airlines operates one daily flight between Hong Kong and Turkey. However, compared to Singapore, which enjoys more frequent connections with Turkey, Hong Kong has room for improvement.
The Role of Hong Kong and Turkey as Global Superconnectors
Both Hong Kong and Turkey serve as crucial “superconnectors” in the global arena. By adding more direct flights, Hong Kong could further solidify its position as a key international aviation hub. This move aligns with Hong Kong’s strategic efforts to bolster its aviation status, as highlighted in Beijing’s latest five-year national plan and the city’s Basic Law. Moreover, Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po has urged local airlines to contribute to the “Air Silk Road,” a key component of China’s Belt and Road Initiative aimed at enhancing global trade routes.
Economic Impacts of Increased Hong Kong-Turkey Flights
Expanding flight capacity between Hong Kong and Turkey would offer significant economic benefits. It would, for instance, improve access to over 200 cities across Europe, Africa, and the Americas, thereby fostering stronger bilateral relations. Hong Kong’s Airport Authority has even offered subsidies of up to HK$7 million (US$897,000) annually to airlines launching new daily routes. Despite these efforts, Hong Kong still trails behind Singapore in terms of flight frequency to Turkey. However, ongoing discussions between Hong Kong’s Transport and Logistics Bureau and Turkey’s civil aviation authorities suggest promising developments.
Enhancing Bilateral Economic Relations
Beyond aviation, economic ties between Hong Kong and Turkey have been gradually strengthening. By 2022, Hong Kong’s direct investment in Turkey amounted to about US$40 million, making it the 17th largest Asian investor in the country. In 2023, Turkey ranked as Hong Kong’s 29th largest trading partner. While the Turkish presence in Hong Kong is relatively small, with around 700 nationals and a few dozen Turkish companies operating in the city, the potential for growth remains significant. The signing of an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement last October and the possibility of establishing a Hong Kong Economic Trade Office in Istanbul are steps towards further enhancing these ties.
Future Prospects and Official Visits
Looking ahead, Evcin is optimistic about an official visit between the two regions in 2025. He also anticipates the signing of a long-negotiated double-taxation agreement, which would further boost bilateral investments. Evcin believes that the period beginning in 2025 will bring positive developments, thereby solidifying the relationship between Hong Kong and Turkey.
Exploring Hong Kong Through the Eyes of a Diplomat
On a lighter note, Evcin shared some of his favorite aspects of living in Hong Kong. He enjoys Chee Cheong Fun, a traditional glutinous rice roll dish, and prefers using the MTR for getting around the city. This allows him to stay connected with the local community. For visitors, Evcin recommends exploring Hong Kong as a “flâneur,” taking in the vibrant energy and dynamic atmosphere that the city offers.