The MOU sets out the framework agreed between the HKMA and DIFC Authority regarding the co-operation, communication and sharing of information in the following areas:

• Development of Islamic finance in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFCDIFC) and Hong Kong, including the exchange of advice on the development of legal and regulatory frameworks and the standardisation and harmonisation of standards
• Promotion of training and educational programs and the facilitation of dialogue between and with Sharia Boards and Sharia Scholars
• Exploration of ways to foster Islamic financial activities on a cross-border scale between the DIFCDIFC and Hong Kong, such as trading of sukuk and other Sharia compliant financial instruments
• Development of payment systems
• Technical co-operation and linkages between each party's financial infrastructure developments
• Joint studies on the extent to which each party's financial infrastructure can support financial infrastructure development in the other party's jurisdiction, particularly with regard to cross-border financial activities
• Joint workshops, seminars and conferences in support of the activities referred to above

"The signing of the MOU between the HKMA and the DIFC Authority marks an important milestone in co-operation between the two organisations," said Mr Eddie Yue, Deputy Chief Executive of the HKMA. "I am confident that the MOU will enhance the co-operation between the HKMA and the DIFC Authority, particularly in the development of Islamic finance, which in turn will benefit Hong Kong as an international financial centre."

Nasser Al Shaali, CEO, DIFC Authority said: "As the global Islamic finance industry enters a new phase of dynamism, this MOU between the DIFC Authority and the HKMA will contribute to vitalising this sector in both our markets. It will enable us to find innovative solutions for critical issues by promoting shared expertise and consultation with industry. I am also confident this framework of co-operation will promote Islamic financial activities between DIFCDIFC and Hong Kong particularly in the trading of sukuks and other Sharia-compliant instruments. Furthermore, this MOU gives us an opportunity to enhance co-operation between our financial infrastructures, in particular the payment systems, of the two regions."

The fastest-growing financial centre in the world, the DIFCDIFC is home to over 600 companies that include the world's leading financial services companies and banks. Over the last four years, DIFCDIFC has emerged as a gateway to the growing financial market in the Middle East region and a key player in the global financial industry. The DIFCDIFC offers its member institutions incentives such as 100 per cent foreign ownership, zero tax on income and profits and no restrictions on foreign exchange. Companies also benefit from modern infrastructure, operational support and business continuity facilities of uncompromisingly high standards.

-Ends-

Background information about the HKMA and DIFCDIFC Authority
The HKMA
The HKMA is Hong Kong's government authority responsible for maintaining monetary and banking stability, managing Hong Kong's official reserves and developing Hong Kong's financial infrastructure. The HKMA is part of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government operating with a high degree of autonomy, complemented by a high degree of accountability and transparency.

About the DIFC
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFCDIFC) is an onshore hub for global finance. It bridges the time gap between the financial centres of Hong Kong and London and services a region with the largest untapped emerging market for financial services. In just three years, over 600 firms have registered at the DIFCDIFC. They operate in an open environment complemented with world-class regulations and standards. The DIFCDIFC offers its member institutions incentives such as 100 per cent foreign ownership, zero tax on income and profits and no restrictions on foreign exchange. In addition their business benefits from modern infrastructure, operational support and business continuity facilities of uncompromisingly high standards.

For further enquiries, please contact:
Hong Kong Monetary Authority
Peggy Lo, Manager (Press), at +852 2878 1687 or
Hing-fung Wong, Manager (Press), at +852 2878 1802

Dubai International Financial Centre Authority
Amira Abdulla
Tel: +971 4 362 2433
E-mail: amira.abdulla@difc.ae

Shaima Al Zarouni
Tel: +971 4 362 2432
E-mail: shaima.alzarouni@difc.ae

© Press Release 2008 from Dubai International Financial Centre

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