Hong Kong needs to take a more active part in the national development strategy, fully seize the major opportunities of the Belt & Road and further bring out its own advantages with a broader mind and vision, National People's Congress Standing Committee Chairman Zhang Dejiang says.
Delivering a keynote speech at the Belt & Road Summit this morning, Mr Zhang said the Central Government attaches great importance to Hong Kong's prosperity and stability and its role in the national strategy.
"We will support Hong Kong in building on its existing strengths and exploring new advantages, support closer exchange and co-operation between Hong Kong and the Mainland, and in expanding economic and trade ties with the world," he said.
Mr Zhang noted that the Central Government would support Hong Kong in playing an active role in responding to the Belt & Road and building a platform of comprehensive services.
It will also back Hong Kong in facilitating capital flows, promoting renminbi internationalisation and developing a Belt & Road investment and financing platform.
Mr Zhang said Hong Kong will also receive support in promoting cultural exchanges for greater mutual understanding among the people along the Belt & Road, and deepening co-operation with the Mainland and jointly developing markets along the Belt & Road.
He noted that this is the first year for the implementation of China's 13th Five-Year Plan and an important year for the Belt & Road development, adding that the summit in Hong Kong is of great importance for building consensus for co-operation along the Belt & Road.
