The proposed road link between Hong Kong and the western Pearl River Delta will boost economic development in the area and bring Hong Kong more convenience and opportunities.

This was the message from Chief Secretary for Administration Donald Tsang after attending a working session of the Mainland/Hong Kong Conference on the Co-ordination of Major Infrastructure Projects in Beijing today.

The Hong Kong Pearl River West Link will connect the western part of Lantau Island in Hong Kong with Macau and the delta area.

Mr Tsang pointed out that the link will bring substantial benefits to tourists, businessmen and the logistics sector.

It will sharpen Hong Kong's competitive edge, strengthen its position as a financial hub, and boost economic growth in the delta area, he added.

He also highlighted that the proposed link is necessary and imminent, adding that the travelling time between Hong Kong and the western delta area will be cut to 30 minutes when the road link is in place.

The proposal has gained support from the Mainland's National Development & Reform Comission and will be submitted to the State Council for approval. After that, Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau will start work on the details.

On the proposed Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link, Mr Tsang said its alignment and technical feasibility will be further discussed in the conference to be held in Hong Kong on August 5.