Friendly exchange: Chief Secretary for Administration Rafael Hui and Shenzhen Mayor Xu Zongheng exchange views.

Hong Kong and Shenzhen have agreed to explore the feasibility of a host of cross-boundary transport upgrades.

They include developing the Lok Ma Chau Loop, boosting co-ordination on the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link and planning of the Longhua Railway Station in Shenzhen, and to discuss the Liantang checkpoint.

The agreement comes after a meeting between delegations headed by Chief Secretary for Administration Rafael Hui and Shenzhen Mayor Xu Zongheng today.

Both sides reviewed the progress of work since the signing of a memorandum on enhancing co-operation between Shenzhen and Hong Kong and eight other co-operation agreements ("1+8" agreements) in June last year.

Other discussion items

They also exchanged views on checkpoints, infrastructure, town planning, the Closer Economic Partnership Agreement, science and technology, environmental protection, food safety and education.

Both sides have enhanced co-operation in trade and investment, economic and trade exchange, overseas promotion, tourism, science and technology and legal services.

Mr Hui said: "Hong Kong attaches great importance to our relationship and co-operation with Shenzhen. Through mutual learning and experience sharing, the two sides can complement the strengths of each other, thus gaining mutual benefits and prosperity.

"The meeting today has enhanced mutual understanding. We have also set out the way forward for further co-operation. I believe that co-operation between Hong Kong and Shenzhen in major areas would make great strides and achieve concrete results."