Israeli companies are welcome to use Hong Kong as their premier business platform to enter the Mainland market, Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa says.

Speaking at a luncheon hosted for Israeli President Moshe Katsav at Government House today, Mr Tung said 60 Israeli companies are already using Hong Kong for that purpose and he believes more are coming.

"I was particularly delighted to hear that some Israeli companies may even use the financial market here to go public. And we would certainly welcome all these activities," Mr Tung said.

Although Hong Kong is no longer the only bridge that links the Mainland with the rest of the world, the signing of CEPA allows Hong Kong businesses to participate in the huge and growing Mainland market.

Mr Tung said many Israeli companies here will also enjoy CEPA's fruits in the long run.

Noting that the Jewish community is very important to Hong Kong, Mr Tung said they have been making great contributions to our economy and invited Israeli businesses to come and see the business opportunities available here.

Mr Katsav will visit our port facilities and Cyberport before departing on December 16.