HK Irreplaceable In China's Belt & Road Plans: HKMAO

A senior mainland official said on Saturday that Hong Kong plays an irreplaceable role in the country's Belt and Road Initiative.

Wang Linggui, a deputy director at Beijing's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, made the comment in a recorded speech at a legal forum on Belt and Road and the One Country, Two Systems principle.

"In the process of implementing the Belt and Road Initiative within the rule of law, Hong Kong, as an important city, is the only common law jurisdiction of our country, it has a natural advantage in legal services," he said.

Wang said legal practitioners in Hong Kong can surely provide quality professional services to different sides taking part in the Belt and Road Initiative, especially Chinese companies.

He added that Hong Kong is currently thoroughly learning and implementing the spirit of the 20th Community Party Congress, and the SAR has drawn strong reaction from the international community after recently hosting a number of major events.

Speaking at the same function, Chief Executive John Lee said Hong Kong has a unique edge in having a robust legal system, including an independent judiciary.

He said this allows the SAR to act as a bridge between the country and the world in business and legal cooperation.

"Hong Kong will continue to capitalise on the unique advantages of "One country, Two systems", safeguard the rule of law under the Basic Law, and integrate actively into the development of the Belt and Road Initiative to foster co-operation in the global arena," Lee said.

"We will make full use of the gifts that are bestowed upon us, and strive to let our Pearl of the Orient shine brighter than ever."