Hong Kong and Shenzhen today signed two documents relating to the implementation of new arrangements at the redeveloped Huanggang Port.

The “Co-operation Arrangement between the Shenzhen Municipal People's Government (SZMG) and the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region on the Implementation of Colocation Arrangement at the Huanggang Port” was signed by Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung and SZMG Vice Mayor Luo Huanghao at the Central Government Offices.

The document gives effect to co-operation between Hong Kong and Shenzhen on implementing a co-location arrangement at the port.

Meanwhile, the Security Bureau and the SZMG’s Office of Port of Entry & Exit signed the “Agreement on the Right to Use the Huanggang Port Hong Kong Port Area and Related Extended Areas”, which allows the Hong Kong SAR Government to acquire, by way of a lease, the right to use these areas, collectively referred to as the Hong Kong Port Area.

The lease will commence on the day on which the areas are commissioned and will expire on June 30, 2047. On the expiry, the lease may be renewed with a decision by the National People’s Congress.

The SZMG will meet the design and construction costs of the entire Huanggang Port Redevelopment Project. The Hong Kong SAR Government will pay the SZMG a nominal rent of RMB1,000 per year.

Mr Tang thanked the central authorities for their staunch support in implementing the co-location arrangement and establishing the Hong Kong Port Area. The latter will be established at midnight tonight and will be subject to the jurisdiction of the Hong Kong SAR in accordance with the city’s laws.

The security chief said the signing of the two documents marks an important milestone in preparatory work for the port’s opening.

He added: “The Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to work closely with the Shenzhen side to take forward various preparatory tasks in an orderly manner, including system testing, and operational and emergency drills, to ensure that all facilities and operational arrangements at the Port are sound and comprehensive.”

Upon confirmation that the port is ready for operation, the governments of Guangdong and Hong Kong will finalise and announce an official opening date.