“Hong Kong had an edge in terms of its financial and hi-tech skills, entrepreneurial spirit, good government and good managers. They are the basis on which Hong Kong builds its relationship with China. It will give it an edge over cities like Shanghai. Hong Kong will be blessed. Hong Kong has created its own success. I don’t think Hong Kong will be threatened by competition.

“As long as Hong Kong maintains its in-built competitive capability, it will remain the largest source of direct investment in mainland China. The Cepa (Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement) marks the importance of the relationship between the two.”

South China Morning Post, 22 September 2003