Closer Links Between Hong Kong and Shanghai

The Hong Kong/Shanghai Economic and Trade Co-operation Conference have been established to foster closer co-operation on economic and trade matters between the two cities. The first meeting of the conference, co-chaired by the Hong Kong Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, and Shanghai Mayor, Mr Han Zheng, was held in late October in Hong Kong.

The two sides discussed ways to enhance co-operation between their two locations. They agreed that they could leverage opportunities brought about by the Mainland/Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA).

Noting that Hong Kong and Shanghai were economically China’s most important cities, Mr Tung said, “The economic and trade co-operation of both cities has already laid a good foundation.” 

Shanghai Mayor Han Zheng said that Shanghai would follow strictly the standard requirements and plans set down by the Central People’s Government and strengthen co-operation with Hong Kong in all aspects. 

At the meeting, the two sides agreed that co-operation should be anchored on the promotion of economic and trade ties. The two governments should take into account national policies on economic development and the framework of CEPA in broadening the scope of co-operation and investment opportunities for business, as well as individuals, from all sectors. They will continue to exchange personnel and strengthen the complementary advantages of the two areas to the benefit of their long-term development. 

Views were exchanged on 8 areas of co-operation: airport, port and maritime; logistics; Shanghai Expo 2010; tourism, convention and exhibition industry; investment and trade; education, health and sports; financial services; and professional personnel exchanges.

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