SDEV begins visit to Beijing (with photos)

     The Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, started her visit programme to Beijing today (November 8), visiting the Zhongguancun Science City and calling on the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development.
      
     During her visit to the Zhongguancun Science City, Ms Linn was briefed by representatives from the relevant authorities on the development plan of the Zhongguancun Science Park, as well as the progress of building up high-tech industries and their mode of development. They also exchanged views. Ms Linn said that while the Government is forging ahead with the development of the Northern Metropolis including the San Tin Technopole, the experience of developing large-scale projects on the Mainland is a valuable source of inspiration and reference for Hong Kong.
      
     Ms Linn then called on the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development and briefed its Minister, Mr Ni Hong, on the  development of land and construction industry in Hong Kong. They exchanged views on various areas of co-operation for building works, such as promoting the use of Modular Integrated Construction method and innovative technologies, setting up the Building Testing and Research Institute, advocating the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area standards, fostering exchange of young professionals, and collaboration in training for construction workers.
      
     Ms Linn thanked the Ministry for being very supportive of the work of the Development Bureau. Both parties will continue to maintain close liaison and work together for better development of the construction industries of both sides.
      
     The Permanent Secretary for Development (Works), Mr Ricky Lau, and the Director of the Northern Metropolis Co-ordination Office, Mr Vic Yau, also joined the visit.
      
     Ms Linn will continue her visit to Beijing tomorrow (November 9).