Guangdong and Macao will continue to bolster effort to stepping up pragmatic cooperation with Hengqin as key platform. It was highlighted on the latest Guangdong-Macao Cooperation Joint Conference via video link co-chaired by Guangdong Governor Ma Xingrui and Macao Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng on June 15th.

(Photo / Macao Government Information Bureau)

Guangdong and Macao gave a review on bilateral ties, saying cooperation projects had been effective, with progress made in a number of sectors, such as the Traditional Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Industrial Park, New Hengqin Port as well as others.

According to the conference, this year marks the opening of China's 14th Five-Year Plan, which is also a significant period for Macao to integrate further into national development, as well as for further cooperation between Guangdong and Macao.

Four major areas for the next phase of collaboration were discussed on the conference as follows.

1. To accelerate the development of Guangdong-Macao Indepth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin. It is to improve systems of laws, regulations and policies, while accelerating key projects.

2.To foster cooperation to support Macao's economic diversification. This will cover science and research, high-end manufacturing, traditional Chinese medicine and modern financial services, culture and travel, exhibition and fair, trade, etc.

3.To intensify connections between Guangdong and Macao,to support the expansion of Macao International Airport, and to support the construction of Qingmao Checkpoint (New Guangdong-Macao Channel).

4.To strengthen cooperation in terms of propelling economic development and people's livelihood. In particular, the two sides will devote further effort in epidemic control and prevention; support Macao's young people to either work or start a business in Guangdong; and enhance collaboration regarding education, food safety and ecological protection.

A total of six agreements were also signed on the conference, covering the exchange and cooperation on food safety issues; standards of quality and recognition regarding inspection work; accounting standards for Macao enterprises established in Guangdong; cooperation in tourism; cooperation in holding job fairs and internships for university students in Greater Bay Area; as well as cooperation in traditional Chinese medicine.

Author: Will

Editor: Wing, Nan, Jerry