(Il Sole 24 Ore Radiocor) - Milano, 1 apr - Hong Kong share prices closed higher as global sentiment improved amid hopes that the Middle East conflict could end soon.

Optimism grew after US President Donald Trump suggested military operations in Iran could wrap up within two to three weeks, easing fears of energy supply disruptions.

A sharp rebound in mainland Chinese stocks further supported the market, helping to offset data showing a sharper than expected slowdown in China's factory activity for March.

Gains were broad-based across all sectors, with the property, financial, and consumer sectors leading the advance.

The Hang Seng index rose 2.04% to close at 25,294.03 points.

(RADIOCOR) 01-04-26 10:42:24 (0257) 5 NNNN