OREANDA-NEWS. In response to media enquiries, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) issues the following statement.

HKEX welcomes Premier Li Keqiang's remarks at today's Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference saying Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect will be launched at an appropriate time this year.

HKEX Chairman Chow Chung Kong said, "We have no information about the timetable for regulatory approval.  We have been working closely with our counterparts in the Mainland and are technically prepared for Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect. We expect a preparatory period of three to four months will be required by the markets on both sides following the announcement of regulatory approval."