THE proposals made by Zhang Liangdong, head of the economics department of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office to Tony Eason of the Hong Kong Government, as reported in your paper (South China Morning Post, November 11) should be welcomed by the Government and the people of Hong Kong.
Proper co-ordination of the inter-border rail and road infrastructure is of vital importance to the future prosperity of Hong Kong and southern China.
To quote the words of Mr Zhang: 'We are not talking about China imposing its views on Hong Kong or vice versa. Through this committee, we will enhance the two-way communication and find common ground before we start our work.' This is a most significant and sensible step China has taken in extending a hand of friendship and co-operation to the Hong Kong Government to get both sides back on to the road of working for the mutual benefit of the people of Hong Kong and southern China.
The Hong Kong Government needs to quickly respond to this proposal and proceed with the planning and implementation of the necessary infrastructural work, together with China, without delay.
But it was disheartening reading your editorial of the same day, 'Co-ordination needed', which said: 'The danger is that, despite an official Chinese pledge that the proposed committee would in no way erode the power of the Hong Kong Government.
'Consultation at vice ministerial level, as proposed, could end up as a mechanism for imposing central control over Hong Kong's relations.' This is negative thinking.
