Major General James G. Blunt

25°02′33″N 121°31′11″E / 25.04250°N 121.51972°E / 25.04250; 121.51972

The Taiwan–Hong Kong Economic and Cultural Co-operation Council (THEC; Chinese: 財團法人臺港經濟文化合作策進會; pinyin: Cáituán Fǎrén Tái–Gǎng Jīngjì Wénhuà Hézuò Cèjìn Huì)^[3] represents the Government of Taiwan in talks with Hong Kong, through its counterpart the Hong Kong–Taiwan Economic and Cultural Co-operation and Promotion Council (ECCPC).^[4]

The THEC was set up in May 2010 in a symbiotic relationship with the Hong Kong ECCPC, similar to that between bodies representing Taiwan and mainland China in cross-strait talks, under a slightly hands-off approach that is often known as the "white glove" policy. The two councils, both with participation by high-ranking ministers, are incorporated as legal entities but will be authorised by the two governments to sign pacts.

The two bodies were established against a background of strengthened Hong Kong-Taiwan links and trade, which match improved China-Taiwan relations.

The THEC has two major committees, one on cultural and one on economic co-operation. This reflects Taiwan's broadbrush approach to its relationship with Hong Kong, and contrasts with the narrower business focus of the Hong Kong side.