Diplomatic surge: how Hong Kong's appeal in forging business and political ties is increasing
Hong Kong has seen a 50 per cent surge in the number of envoys; they are seeking business opportunities and insight into China affairs
The city's diplomatic corps has flourished since the handover with global movers and shakers in the consular world flocking to Hong Kong, propping up its inimitable status as a territory within China but also distinctly separate from it.
Coupled with Beijing's recent large-scale crackdown on human rights lawyers and activists amid a backdrop of its increasingly tight grip on dissenting views, Hong Kong's community of career diplomats - one of the largest communities of foreign representatives in the world - is in an ever more unique position, experts say.
Last month, Beijing targeted more than 200 human rights lawyers and activists in an unprecedented crackdown, prompting a group of Hong Kong lawyers to launch a global petition calling for detainees to be allowed a fair and open judicial process.
Zweig described Hong Kong as a city of "remarkable economic, political and social vitality", making it a drawcard for diplomats.
"It is a great place for consuls general who want to promote their countries' economic opportunities and a terrific outpost for understanding politics in China, as the city has many very well informed observers of China and freedom of information."
