Policy Address

Early and Pilot Implementation

47.        To capitalise on this strategic opportunity, the governments of Hong Kong and Guangdong are formulating a framework agreement for Hong Kong-Guangdong co-operation. This will translate the Outline's macro policies into concrete measures conducive to the development of both places. The framework will also serve as an agenda for Hong Kong-Guangdong co-operation, laying a foundation for us to seek to incorporate the related initiatives into the National 12th Five-Year Plan. We will work with Guangdong and Macao to formulate two regional co-operation plans on building a quality living circle and on infrastructure development to improve the living environment and upgrade infrastructure in the three places. In addition, under Supplements V and VI to CEPA, a number of measures for early and pilot implementation in Guangdong have been introduced. We will continue to promote CEPA, ensure its effective implementation and seek further liberalisation and facilitation measures under it. As co-operation between Hong Kong and Guangdong continues to increase, we will strengthen the functions and establishment of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Guangdong, and establish a dedicated unit for liaison with Shenzhen.

Development of Qianhai

48.        The Government hopes that by participating in the development of Qianhai in Shenzhen, Hong Kong will be able to promote and enhance our own service industries, thereby fostering our long-term economic growth, and contribute to the development of service industries in the Mainland.

49.        At the meeting of the Hong Kong/Guangdong Co-operation Joint Conference in August this year, Hong Kong and Shenzhen signed a letter of intent on co-operation in the development of Qianhai. We will continue to actively explore with the Guangdong Provincial Government and Shenzhen Municipal Government, under the frameworks for Hong Kong-Guangdong and Hong Kong-Shenzhen co-operation, on how best to leverage Hong Kong's advantages as an international financial, trade and shipping centre, and combine the strengths of both sides to promote the development of modern service industries in Qianhai.

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