New knowledge: Chief Executive Donald Tsang concludes his Middle East tour in Dubai saying Hong Kong has enriched its understanding of Islamic finance.

Chief Executive Donald Tsang has pledged to work closely with Mainland authorities to help snowstorm victims.

Speaking to reporters in Dubai today, Mr Tsang said Premier Wen Jiabao has assured that the Central Government will take every measure to ensure a stable food supply to Hong Kong. While giving his sympathies to people affected by the storm, Mr Tsang thanked the Central Government for its staunch support.

Secretary for Food & Health Dr York Chow will meet with Mainland officials in Guangzhou on February 2 to further enhance measures to stabilise food supplies to Hong Kong, including pork and live pigs.

Noting the country is facing adversity, Mr Tsang said Hong Kong may be temporarily affected and urged citizens to be considerate.

Business trip ends

Concluding his Middle East visit today Mr Tsang said Hong Kong has good potential to develop this market.

He said the countries he visited are keen to invest in Asia, adding they have been told Hong Kong is their best business partner and platform to enter the Mainland market. The trip has enriched the delegation's understanding of Islamic finance also.

Earlier in the day Mr Tsang called on Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum and other officials before attending a roundtable meeting with the Dubai International Financial Centre. At a luncheon he praised Dubai as a central player in Hong Kong's trade relations with the Middle East.