(ECNS) -- Hong Kong Customs and Pakistan Customs signed a cooperative arrangement Wednesday to strengthen intelligence exchange and combat cross-border crime, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government said.

The agreement was signed by Hong Kong Customs Commissioner Chan Tsz-tat at Customs Headquarters in a hybrid ceremony. Pakistan's Member Customs Syed Shakeel Shah joined online, while Consul General Riaz Ahmed Shaikh attended in person.

Chan said the arrangement will also enhance trade facilitation and create a business-friendly environment. Hong Kong Customs has signed similar agreements with 35 administrations worldwide and aims to consolidate the city's role as an international financial, shipping and trade hub.

(By Tang Yuxian)