Upgrade cooperation for the mainland and Hong Kong

China's Minister of Commerce Zhong Shan has met with

Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Carrie

Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor in Beijing on Tuesday. The two sides had discussion

about issues such as Hong Kong's participation in the Belt and Road

Initiative, the implementation of the Closer Economic Partnership

Arrangement (CEPA), and further opening up and supporting Hong Kong to

participate in the international and regional economic cooperation.

This

is Carrie Lam's first visit to the Chinese mainland since she took

office as the chief executive in July. Zhong said the central government

fully affirms Hong Kong's achievements over the past two decades. He

said they prove the "one country, two systems" and Hong Kong people's

decision-making are completely appropriate. Zhong added that the

Ministry is confident in the continuing development of Hong Kong. He

said it will further strengthen economic, trade and transport

cooperation with the SAR government to contribute to Hong Kong's

prosperity.

(The city of Hong Kong air view /VCG Photo)

Lam

pointed out that the implementation of the "one country, two systems"

is certain to encounter new problems, but it is important to remember

the original intention and keep Hong Kong prosperous and stable. She

also expressed her appreciation for the Ministry of Commerce signing the

CEPA deal with Hong Kong in 2003. This year will see two other

important agreements on investments and technology that will help

promote the SAR's development.

(The city of Hong Kong night view /VCG Photo)

Look

forward to the future, the closer integration between the mainland and

Hong Kong is an inevitable trend of historical development. The

implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative, cross-border e-commerce,

modern logistics and other emerging fields will bring new opportunities

for the further potential cooperation. At present, the Chinese mainland

and Hong Kong both need to jointly seize the opportunities, overcome

difficulties, and promote in-depth, effective and sustainable relations

of cooperation for a better future.