HK chief executive expects double-digit GDP growth in 2nd quarter

Hong Kong Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa said Saturday that it is possible that Hong Kong's GDP growth will reach double-digit in the second quarter of this year.

"Although there are uncertainties further down the road, I am optimistic about our economy as we forge ahead," Tung said when addressing at the opening ceremony of the 26th Asia Pacific Dental Congress. The GDP growth of Hong Kong reached 6.8 percent in the first quarter.

Tung said the future of Hong Kong economic development depends on ensuring access to the Chinese mainland market for businesses and professionals, and on building the capacities of service needed.

While ensuring greater access to the mainland market, Tung said the Hong Kong government needs to work with colleagues in Guangdong Province to ensure that Hong Kong will be a major playerin the growth of the Pearl River Delta and beyond.

To sustain Hong Kong's position as Asia's leading financial center, Tung emphasized that Hong Kong must, in the long run, be an offshore Renminbi center.

Source: Xinhua