AIFC and HKEX sign MoU to strengthen cooperation in carbon markets and green finance
The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) and Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation and fostering peer learning in the areas of carbon markets, green finance, and sustainable development.
The MoU was signed during the official visit of the Chief Executive of Hong Kong, John Lee Ka-chiu, to Kazakhstan, accompanied by a business and official delegation representing the finance, energy, technology, carbon, and related sectors. The visit reflects the growing interest of both sides in deepening economic and investment ties between Kazakhstan and Hong Kong.
The MoU was signed by Mr. Bakhtiyar Tleubekov, Chairman of the Management Board of AIFC Authority and Ms. Bonnie Y Chan, Chief Executive Officer, HKEX.
Bakhtiyar Tleubekov noted: «The signing of this MoU with HKEX marks an important step toward strengthening connectivity between the financial and sustainability ecosystems of Central Asia and Asia-Pacific. Through this partnership, we aim to advance regional cooperation in carbon markets, green finance, sustainable aviation, and innovative risk management solutions. By combining expertise and promoting cross-regional standards, knowledge exchange, and investment opportunities, we are laying the groundwork for a more integrated and resilient sustainable finance ecosystem that supports long-term economic growth across our regions».
Bonnie Y Chan, Chief Executive Officer, HKEX said: «We are delighted to be entering into these agreements with AIX and the AIFC Authority, deepening our ties with one of the most dynamic financial centres in Central Asia, and as we build our connectivity with more Belt and Road markets. As Central Asia’s importance in global commodities and sustainable development continues to grow, these MOUs will help unlock new opportunities for global issuers and investors alike. By working closely with AIX to explore cross-border listings and with the AIFC Authority to collaborate in green finance and commodities, we are extending HKEX’s role as a connector of markets and supporting the two-way flow of capital between Hong Kong and Central Asia».
Under the framework of the MoU, the parties intend to cooperate across several strategic areas related to carbon markets, green finance and sustainable development. In the field of carbon markets and sustainable finance, the parties will focus on advocating regional collaboration to support sustainable development, climate transition, and decarbonisation efforts in both regions.
The cooperation will also include exploring the development of green finance and environmental instrument ecosystems, including the establishment of distribution channels for such instruments from Kazakhstan and across Central Asia and the Caucasus, and promoting cross-regional “soft connectivity” in relevant standards and methodologies for the certification and issuance of such instruments.
The Memorandum further envisages exploring cooperation on the development, financing, and implementation of sustainable aviation projects, including but not limited to initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions, improving fuel efficiency, and supporting the transition to sustainable aviation fuels and technologies.
The parties also intend to explore collaboration in the fields of insurance and reinsurance, including risk assessment, underwriting, and the development of innovative financial instruments to support joint projects and manage associated risks.
Another important area of cooperation includes promoting capacity building and knowledge sharing in relation to green finance and environmental instrument ecosystems to enhance market awareness in both regions.
The parties also intend to explore cooperation in the junior mining sector.
The Memorandum additionally provides for establishing systems for regular meetings or other forms of communication between parties to enhance their understanding of developments in either party’s carbon market and to evaluate further business opportunities. The parties will also explore collaboration on research activities, including joint studies and data exchange.
Reference:
The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is an independent jurisdiction where investors and business meet emerging opportunities of Kazakhstan and Central Asia in a transparent and sustainable environment backed by the principles of English Common Law. www.aifc.kz
AIFC Press Office,
Ainur Issabayeva, press secretary
E-mail: [email protected]
Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) is one of the world’s leading exchange groups and operates a range of equity, commodity, fixed income, and currency markets. Through its exchanges, clearing houses, and trading platforms, HKEX connects global capital with opportunities in Asia and beyond.
