| HK,Shenzhen making great strides in co-operation in many areas |
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The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Rafael Hui, led a group of senior officials to meet the Mayor of Shenzhen, Mr Xu Zongheng and his delegation today (September 5).
Both sides reviewed the progress of work since the signing of a memorandum on enhancing co-operation between Shenzhen and Hong Kong and eight other co-operation agreements ("1+8" agreements) in June, 2004. They also exchanged views on a number of subjects in relation to Hong Kong/Shenzhen co-operation, including control points, infrastructure, town planning, implementation of the Closer Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), science and technology, environmental protection, food safety and education. The two sides were satisfied with the implementation of the "1+8" agreements over the past year. During the year, both sides have stepped up co-operation in various areas including facilitation of trade and investment, economic and trade exchange, overseas promotion, tourism, science and technology and legal services. Both sides have also agreed to study the feasibility of developing the Lok Ma Chau Loop; to strengthen co-ordination and communication on the interface between the Hong Kong and the mainland sections of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link and the planning of the Longhua Railway Station in Shenzhen; and to conduct study and discussion on Liantang Control Point. "Hong Kong attaches great importance to our relationship and co-operation with Shenzhen. Through mutual learning and experiences sharing, the two sides can complement the strengths of each other, thus gaining mutual benefits and prosperity," Mr Hui said. "The meeting today has enhanced mutual understanding. We have also set out the way forward for further co-operation. I believe that co-operation between Hong Kong and Shenzhen in various major areas would make great strides and achieve concrete results." Accompanying Mayor Xu at the meeting were Executive Deputy Mayor Liu Yingli and Deputy Mayors Zhuo Qinrui, Chen Yingchun and Yan Xiaopei. Hong Kong officials attending the meeting included the Secretary for Education and Manpower, Professor Arthur Li; the Secretary for Environment, Transport and Works, Dr Sarah Liao; the Secretary for Constitutional Affairs, Mr Stephen Lam; the Secretary for Commerce, Industry and Technology, Mr John Tsang; the Secretary for Health, Welfare and Food, Dr York Chow; the Permanent Secretary for Housing, Planning and Lands, Mrs Rita Lau; and the Permanent Secretary for Security, Mr Stanley Ying. Ends/Monday, September 5, 2005 |