The Hong Kong and Sichuan governments have reached initial consensus on the reconstruction of the province's earthquake-stricken areas, Chief Secretary Henry Tang says.

Speaking after the first meeting on reconstruction with Sichuan officials today, Mr Tang said both sides agreed to implement the reconstruction works on a project basis and expect all projects to be completed in three to five years.

The two governments will confirm the detailed arrangements of the first stage reconstruction in two to three months.

Noting the profound significance of the Wolong Giant Panda Nature Reserve's reconstruction, Mr Tang said the Government would work with Ocean Park in rebuilding its infrastructure and facilities.

A working group will be formed to study the details of rebuilding damaged major roads linking Wolong and Yingxiu Town.

Medical help

The Government will help rebuild hospitals, schools and community welfare centres in several earthquake-stricken areas. It has also discussed with the Sichuan government the proposal of forming a medical rehabilitation centre in a major Sichuan hospital.

Mr Tang said Hong Kong will strictly adhere to Mainland rules in managing the projects. The two governments will form a review mechanism to follow through the projects' progress, quality of materials and use of resources, to oversee the investment and construction scale, to inspect the works and to make assessments.

Both sides have reached initial agreement on reconstruction proposals by three non-governmental organisations. The concerned groups can continue their relief work according to the Sichuan government's approved master plan.

If Hong Kong voluntary groups want to seek government funding for similar relief and reconstruction projects they should form a partnership with Sichuan authorities and seek their approval.

Those planning to deploy their own resources for such work can liaise directly with related Sichuan departments.