Acting Shenzhen Mayor Wang Rong picked up where his predecessor left off, carrying on discussions about further co-operation between Hong Kong and Shenzhen yesterday. Wang had meetings with Chief Executive Donald Tsang Yam-kuen and Chief Secretary for Administration Henry Tang Ying-yen.

It was Wang's first visit since he took up the post of acting mayor 10 days ago. Tsang thanked Wang for putting importance on the mainland city's relations with Hong Kong.

"The relationship between Shenzhen and Hong Kong takes an important position in the mainland-Hong Kong connection," said Wang, as the two met.

Wang also expressed his gratitude over the SAR government's effort to promote co-operation between the two cities.

He added the collaboration has a significant role - not only does it help Shenzhen develop, the opening of the city also creates opportunities for Hong Kong.

Tsang said that Shenzhen is a vital channel for Hong Kong to enter the mainland market.

"Hong Kong projects its capital, technology and experience to the country through Guangdong, especially Shenzhen," Tsang said.

The two sides agreed to maintain a close partnership. High on the agenda were implementing "The Outline of the Plan for the Reform and Development of the Pearl River Delta Region" and moving forward large-scale cross-boundary infrastructure works.

The officials also discussed some projects in details, including speeding up the development of Lok Ma Chau Loop, port construction, and implementing measures for non-Guangdong residents in Shenzhen to apply for multiple visits to Hong Kong under the Individual Visit Scheme.

The current visitation endorsement applies only to Shenzhen permanent residents.

In view of acute drug abuse among youth, both sides decided to step up measures to combat the problem. The authorities will exchange information on drug abuse and Shenzhen will send back to Hong Kong after their confinement young addicts who have been placed under administrative detention.

During the coming summer vacation, the two jurisdictions will strengthen efforts to combat drug dealing and cross-boundary drug trafficking.

Editor: Olivia