Secretary for Development attends Infrastructure Summit in Singapore (with photo)
The Secretary for Development, Mrs Carrie Lam, today (March 23) attended the Financial Times Asia Infrastructure Summit in Singapore and delivered a keynote speech on the infrastructure development in Hong Kong.
"The Government's commitment and planning for major infrastructure investment started well before the global economic downturn brought about by the financial tsunami,” Mrs Lam said. She referred to the setting up of the Development Bureau and the 10 major infrastructure projects outlined by the Chief Executive at the beginning of this term of the Special Administrative Region Government from July 2007.
She pointed out that these infrastructure projects, including the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link, Hong Kong-Shenzhen Airport Rail Link, Liantang/Heung Yuen Wai boundary Control Point, as well as the joint development of Lok Ma Chau Loop with Shenzhen, would further enhance Hong Kong’s integration with the Mainland.
Some other projects, such as the New Development Areas, Sha Tin to Central Link, and South Island Line, and West Island Line, would improve Hong Kong’s internal connectivity and meeting future population needs. Kai Tak Development and the West Kowloon Cultural District would add diversity to Hong Kong's development.
Mrs Lam highlighted in her speech that apart from major infrastructure developments, the Government was committed to providing a quality city environment for the people of Hong Kong. These included slope safety and greening, water conservation, flood prevention, harbour area treatment scheme, building maintenance, advancing green buildings, cycle track network, and the Greening Master Plan.
Despite these ongoing initiatives, she also referred to measures announced by the Financial Secretary, in his 2009-10 Budget to promote a green economy.
Mrs Lam said that the Government attached importance to not only the city environment but also people’s living experience. This was reflected in Government’s efforts in beautifying the harbourfront, preserving local culture and characteristics, and implementing various initiatives on heritage conservation.
She also told the audience that a Development Opportunities Office would be set up to provide one-stop advisory service and support to promote private sector-initiated projects.
Ends/Monday, March 23, 2009
Issued at HKT 18:38
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