Hengqin cooperation zone meeting advances economic integration

The second meeting of the First Advisory Committee for the Hengqin-Guangzhou-Macau In-Depth Cooperation Zone was held last week, bringing together 25 members, including notable figures such as Edmund Ho, Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference. The meeting aimed to bolster the integration of Macau and Hengqin through discussions on strategic initiatives for economic diversification.

Lei Wai Nong, Macau’s Economy and Finance Secretary, highlighted the successful implementation of 21 central government policies that support the Hengqin initiative. He emphasized the importance of these policies in promoting the integrated development of the region, particularly in attracting international resources and talent.

Edmund Ho, who served as the first Chief Executive of the Macau Special Administrative Region, urged the committee to focus on achieving high-quality outcomes in the first phase of the cooperation zone’s development. He outlined four key areas for improvement: enhancing resource capabilities, fostering talent acquisition, addressing the needs of emerging industries, and ensuring that various stakeholders benefit from the ongoing changes in Shenzhen.

The meeting also addressed plans for the second phase of industrial development in Shenzhen, with the goal of further advancing integrated development between Hengqin and Macau. The committee is optimistic about achieving significant results that will contribute to Macau’s moderately diversified economy, moving beyond its traditional reliance on gaming and entertainment. NS