Lesha Bank (Public LLC) has signed a memorandum of understanding with China Asset Management (Hong Kong) Limited to strengthen cooperation in investment and capital markets between Qatar, China and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

The bank said in a statement that the MoU covers studying and developing a number of joint investment products and solutions, including the launch of a Sharia-compliant Chinese equity fund in Qatar, subject to the relevant regulatory requirements and approvals.

Mohammed Ismail Al Emadi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Lesha Bank, said the step marks an important milestone for the bank. He noted that the Chinese equity fund will be structured within the bank's asset management business and will operate under a Sharia-compliant investment framework, allowing portfolios to be built with a disciplined approach and giving investors access to China's growth opportunities through a risk-conscious approach.

He added that, beyond the transaction itself, the partnership strengthens the bank's institutional capabilities and is an important step towards deepening economic and investment ties between Qatar and China, supporting the wider cross-border investment community and enhancing regional cooperation.

Tian Gan, Chief Executive Officer of China Asset Management (Hong Kong), said: "We are pleased to work with Lesha Bank on this significant initiative, which also marks our first strategic collaboration in the Middle East market. The MoU reflects our shared commitment to strengthening connectivity between China and the GCC countries."

He added: "Through this fund, we look forward to giving investors in Qatar and the region broader opportunities to invest in Chinese companies associated with new quality productive forces, the innovative, fast-growing businesses leading the next phase of China's economic transformation. At the same time, this partnership will enable eligible Middle Eastern investors to strengthen the global diversification of their investments, while deepening two-way investment channels between our markets."

The fund will target sectors including artificial intelligence and technology, advanced manufacturing, innovative pharmaceuticals and renewable energy. It is designed to achieve long-term capital growth through the active selection of Sharia-compliant equities in mainland China and Hong Kong, as well as shares of Chinese companies listed in overseas markets, under an "All-China" active equity investment strategy.

Lesha Bank will serve as the fund's investment manager, while China Asset Management (Hong Kong) will act as its sub-investment manager, with responsibilities including investment decisions and liquidity management.