Chief Executive Carrie Lam and Guangdong Governor Ma Xingrui today signed the 2020 Work Plan of the Framework Agreement on Hong Kong/Guangdong Co-operation in the form of an exchange of letters.

The plan jointly takes forward 57 measures covering eight major areas on the basis of complementarity and mutual benefit.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government said the direction and objectives of the 2020 Work Plan continue to be the implementation of the Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the further deepening of the co-operation between Hong Kong and Guangdong.

The 2020 Work Plan covers issues in eight major areas, namely cross-boundary infrastructure development and customs clearance facilitation; joint development of an international innovation and technology hub; fostering co-operation in modern service industries; taking forward co-operation in education, talents and youth matters; developing an internationalised business environment; joint development of a quality living circle; joint participation in the Belt & Road Initiative; and taking forward the development of key co-operation platforms.

The 57 measures in the work plan are the outcome of discussions between the governments of the Hong Kong SAR and Guangdong Province.

The measures aim to further facilitate exchanges between residents of Hong Kong and Guangdong, improve the quality of living for the people of the two places, take forward developments in innovation and technology as well as strengthen co-operation in various sectors and industries.

They can also contribute to the joint endeavour of Hong Kong and Guangdong to support and lead the bay area in the economic development and opening up of the country.

The Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to strengthen co-operation with the Guangdong Provincial Government, set out clear directions and goals on the implementation of the Outline Development Plan and further deepen the collaboration as well as strive for policy innovation and breakthroughs to create more opportunities for the residents of both sides.