Letters | Why Hong Kong needs to boost its knowledge of the Middle East

Readers discuss the benefits of increased understanding of the Middle East in Hong Kong, the hawker economy in the city and Central Asia, and the use of acupuncture in the treatment of a young dancer

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People enjoy their weekend with the view of city skyline and the world tallest tower, Burj Khalifa, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on January 29, 2021. Photo: AP

Published: 11:30am, 23 Oct 2023

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As Hong Kong tries to increase economic ties with the Middle East and attract investors and businesses from the region, it has been facing challenges. The city’s growing focus on China over the years meant that financial firms followed suit, leading to other markets being overlooked.

As a result, while many professionals in Hong Kong’s financial sector are well-versed in Chinese language and culture, there seems to be a shortage of experts with a thorough understanding of the Middle East.

However, the benefits to the city of increased familiarity with the Middle East would extend well beyond the economic sphere.

The Middle East has played a significant role in the history and development of both China and Hong Kong. The histories of the Middle East and China have long been intertwined, as evidenced by the significant Muslim population in today’s China, which dates back to the Tang dynasty. Hong Kong also has a substantial Muslim community, established during the British era through connections with South Asia and the arrival of Muslims from southern China.

Muslims in China and Hong Kong have contributed to the region’s material and cultural progress in various ways, and continue to do so today. Gaining a deeper understanding of this history would not only enhance our appreciation of Chinese and Hong Kong history and culture but also promote a greater understanding of our diverse society.