CS Leads HKSAR Delegation to Strengthen GBA Economic Ties
The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr. Chan Kwok-ki, led a delegation from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government and business sectors on a visit to Mainland cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) on November 26.
In the morning, the delegation attended the Foshan-Hong Kong Economic and Trade Cooperation Conference. They discussed Foshan’s latest developments and ways to enhance cooperation between Hong Kong and Foshan. Mr. Chan highlighted that Hong Kong’s strengths in commerce, trade, logistics, and management can complement Foshan’s strong manufacturing base. This collaboration aims to improve industry interfaces and promote efficient resource flow within the GBA.
Later, the delegation traveled to Guangzhou. They visited the Guangzhou Development Zone Planning Exhibition Hall to understand the city’s overall planning and future development. During a welcoming luncheon, Mr. Chan emphasized that Hong Kong and Guangzhou serve as key cities in the GBA. He expressed hope for innovative policies that would enhance collaboration and propel regional development.
In the afternoon, the delegation visited Dongguan. They explored the exhibition center in Dongguan Binhaiwan New District to learn about its focus on emerging industries and research and development. They also toured an intelligent manufacturing facility, where they received updates from a company representative.
Interview with Dr. Michelle Liu, Expert in Regional Development and Economic Cooperation
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Liu. We’ve just reported that Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr. Chan Kwok-ki, led a delegation from the HKSAR Government to the Greater Bay Area. Can you share your insights on the significance of this visit?
Dr. Liu: Thank you for having me. This visit is particularly significant as it underscores the importance of collaboration within the Greater Bay Area. By engaging with cities like Foshan, Guangzhou, and Dongguan, Hong Kong is strategically positioning itself to enhance economic synergies. Each city has distinct strengths; for instance, Foshan’s manufacturing capabilities can greatly benefit from Hong Kong’s advanced logistics and financial services.
Interviewer: The Foshan-Hong Kong Economic and Trade Cooperation Conference was a key event during the visit. What do you think are the potential outcomes of such discussions?
Dr. Liu: The outcomes can be quite substantial. By fostering dialog, both regions can identify specific areas for cooperation, which may lead to joint ventures or initiatives that enhance industry interfaces. The ability to streamline resource flows can boost both local economies, creating jobs and fostering innovation.
Interviewer: The delegation also visited the Guangzhou Development Zone. How does understanding urban planning contribute to economic collaboration?
Dr. Liu: Urban planning is foundational for sustainable economic development. By understanding Guangzhou’s long-term vision and infrastructure planning, Hong Kong businesses can better align their strategies. This fosters a more integrated approach to industrial development and ensures that investments are directed towards areas with the greatest potential.
Interviewer: Mr. Chan also highlighted the significance of Dongguan in the trade and maritime industries. How does Dongguan’s role influence the overall dynamics of the GBA?
Dr. Liu: Dongguan is critical as it serves as a manufacturing powerhouse. Its focus on attracting technology enterprises and fostering an innovative environment is essential in the context of the GBA’s broader goals. As Dongguan evolves, it can lead to a shift in the regional economy toward high-tech and value-added industries, thereby enhancing competitiveness on a global scale.
Interviewer: Looking ahead, what do you anticipate for the final leg of the delegation’s visit to Huizhou and Shenzhen?
Dr. Liu: I expect that Huizhou and Shenzhen will offer further insights into the technological and industrial advancements in the GBA. Shenzhen, in particular, is known as a tech hub, and there is potential for collaborative projects in innovation and research. This could mark a significant step towards creating a cohesive economic strategy that benefits all cities within the GBA.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Liu, for your valuable insights on this critical development in the Greater Bay Area.
Dr. Liu: My pleasure. It’s an exciting time for the GBA, and I look forward to seeing how these collaborations unfold.
In the evening, they participated in the Dongguan-Hong Kong Economic and Trade Cooperation Conference. Mr. Chan noted Dongguan’s role as a close partner in trade and maritime industries. He acknowledged Dongguan’s efforts to develop new industries, attract technology enterprises, and create a favorable innovation environment.
Mr. Chan will lead the delegation to Huizhou and Shenzhen on November 27, the final day of their visit.