Hong Kong, Uzbekistan set course for mutual visa-free access

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Uzbekistan have agreed to begin detailed discussions on a reciprocal visa-free travel arrangement that would allow citizens of both sides to stay for up to 30 days, marking a significant step forward in bilateral relations.

The development was announced following a meeting in Tashkent between Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, who is leading a high-level business delegation to Central Asia, and Uzbekistan’s Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov, China Daily reports.

During the talks, the two sides exchanged views on formalizing their intention to establish the visa-free regime and agreed to advance discussions on the necessary implementation measures.

Under the current arrangements, holders of Hong Kong SAR passports may enter Uzbekistan without a visa for up to 10 days. Uzbek diplomatic and official passport holders can travel to Hong Kong visa-free for up to 14 days, while ordinary Uzbek passport holders are still required to obtain visas to visit the city.

“The two governments will promptly advance the specific implementation measures to bring the arrangement into effect as soon as possible,” Lee said on his social media page.

According to the Hong Kong administration, the proposed visa-free regime is expected to strengthen people-to-people exchanges, boost tourism, facilitate educational and business cooperation, and create a stronger foundation for long-term economic and trade relations.

Officials also noted that the initiative would support Hong Kong’s efforts to expand its presence in emerging Central Asian markets and deepen engagement with the region.

By Vafa Guliyeva