Chief Executive Donald Tsang has encouraged top Jiangsu enterprises to list in Hong Kong, saying he is impressed with the economic development of the Yangtze River Delta.

Speaking to reporters in Shanghai this afternoon, Mr Tsang said his recent trip to Jiangsu has been fruitful, adding rapid economic development in the province has triggered a rise in demand for enterprise financing.

Highlighting Hong Kong's sophisticated, stable and highly internationalised financial system, and its well-developed professional services sector, he urged enterprises in the province to use Hong Kong as their financing platform.

He said the Yangtze River Delta is focusing more on developing advanced manufacturing and hi-tech industries, particularly in scientific research and development, environmental protection standards and talent training.

"As Hong Kong is also promoting six industries with high potential, the two places can learn from each other and complement each other's strength. There should be a lot of co-operation opportunities in many areas."

More than 1,000 people from the province come to Hong Kong for training annually, Mr Tsang said, adding co-operation in this area can be further enhanced.

Experience learning

Noting Hong Kong's service industry development is mature and has good international networks, he encouraged Jiangsu enterprises to make use of the city's banking, accounting and legal services to explore overseas markets.

Mr Tsang said Hong Kong can learn from the province's success in the culture industry and its culture tourism development.

"While developing its economy, Jiangsu also attaches great importance to heritage and environment conservation. Hong Kong can learn from their experience when formulating measures to promote heritage conservation and tourism simultaneously. Useful reference can be made of their experience to study ways to develop Hong Kong's cultural industry through the West Kowloon Cultural District project."

Expo ready

On the Shanghai Expo, he said the event's opening ceremony will he held this evening with the Hong Kong pavilion opening tomorrow.

"We are ready to serve expo visitors, showcasing the city's potential. Participation in the event will enhance Hong Kong's international image and we can exchange experience with other participating countries and places."