The Task Force for Collaboration on the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy held its fourth meeting today in Hong Kong.
 

Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong and Shenzhen Vice Mayor Tao Yongxin led delegations representing the governments of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Shenzhen respectively.
 

At the meeting, the Hong Kong SAR Government introduced the Northern Metropolis Action Agenda and the Hong Kong Major Transport Infrastructure Development Blueprint, as well as its planned major tasks for the Northern Metropolis this year.
 

These include commencing work on the second phase development of Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen, the remaining development of Kwu Tung North/Fanling North, and the first phase development of the San Tin Technopole. The Hong Kong SAR Government will also conduct public engagement exercises on land use proposals for four locations, namely Lau Fau Shan, Ngau Tam Mei, New Territories North New Town and Ma Tso Lung.
 

The Hong Kong delegation also introduced details regarding the implementation of the second phase opening-up of Sha Tau Kok.
 

Meanwhile, the government of Shenzhen introduced development plans in relation to the Shenzhen side of the Northern Metropolis.
 

In addition, the two sides exchanged views on matters relating to cross-boundary collaboration such as transport and the planning of control points. They also agreed to continue strengthening co-operation to pursue high-quality development.
 

After the meeting, both delegations visited the Hong Kong Science Park. They were briefed by representatives of the Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation on developments at the park, then visited a medical robotics centre there.
 

The delegations then toured the Sha Tau Kok Frontier Closed Area to learn about progress in the area’s opening-up.
 

Mr Wong said the Northern Metropolis is taking an “industry-driven and infrastructure-led” approach as its key planning axle, and involves forging a major hub for Hong Kong to integrate into the country’s overall development.
 

“When formulating the industry positioning of each region in the Northern Metropolis, we attach great importance to the development positioning and potential of the corresponding areas in Shenzhen, the transport links, connections between boundary control points, and the prospects for co-operation between the two places, ensuring that the planning of the Northern Metropolis complements the development of Shenzhen and the Greater Bay Area for mutual benefits.”