Vice-Premier Wu Yi has reiterated the Central Government's staunch support to Hong Kong in maintaining its role as an international finance, trade and logistics hub.

Making the remark when meeting Chief Executive Donald Tsang in Hunan today, Ms Wu said Hong Kong's economy has revived and its competitiveness has enhanced in the past two years.

She said the 11th Five-Year Plan states clearly that co-operation and exchange between Hong Kong and the Mainland has to be bolstered.

Hunan relations: Chief Executive Donald Tsang with Hunan Governor Zhou Bohua at the Hong Kong-Hunan Business Co-operation Symposium, with Olympic gold medallist diver Xiong Ni at the Hunan Sports Bureau gymnasium, and with Vice-Premier Wu Yi in Changsha.

Concluding today's visit, Mr Tsang said the Hunan trip aims to explore business opportunities for Hong Kong enterprises, sharpen the city's competitive edge and boost employment, adding that Hong Kong has unique advantages, such as top international financial services, professional knowledge and brand-building expertise.

Noting the Central Government's policy to enhance support for the rising central region, Mr Tsang urged local entrepreneurs and investors to seize the opportunity and contribute to Hunan's economic and trade development.

Mr Tsang will visit Guizhou and Jiangxi later this year to boost business there.

Earlier today, Mr Tsang attended the Hong Kong-Hunan Business Co-operation Symposium in Changsha. He said Hong Kong's strategic location and international network can serve as a platform for Hunan enterprises to expand overseas business. Hunan offers Hong Kong entrepreneurs and investors a favourable investment environment because of its rich natural resources, he added.