Business partners: Guangzhou Mayor Zhang Guangning meets Greater Pearl River Delta Business Council chairman Victor Fung.

Hong Kong and Guangzhou are set to jointly explore overseas markets by launching a platform promoting both cities' strengths.

The move is one of several ideas proposed at a forum on boosting bilateral trade and investment today, in which the Greater Pearl River Delta Business Council exchanged views with a delegation led by Guangzhou Mayor Zhang Guangning.

Council chairman Victor Fung said the business sector has proposed more cross-boundary ferry services between Hong Kong's airport and piers in the delta region. Helicopter services should also be increased.

The sector also hoped pan Pearl River Delta areas can eliminate obstacles on passenger and cargo flow and policies to develop the region into a unified market.

Mr Fung said the council conducts research into the services necessary to facilitate Hong Kong business people that run export-processing enterprises in Guangdong. An in-depth study into the relevant policies and legal framework on the Mainland will also be taken.

He said the council will continue exchanges with Guangzhou authorities on economic issues, and relay views of the local business sector on bilateral co-operation.