Zhinews of Shenzhen Satellite TV:  

With the rapid development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the high-quality development of Belt and Road cooperation, Hong Kong and Macao are integrating themselves into China's overall development at an unprecedented scale and depth. In July, the NIA, in accordance with the law, began issuing mainland travel permits to non-Chinese permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macao. What benefits does this new policy offer? How has the permit issuance process progressed so far? Thank you.

Liu Haitao:

You raise a good question. This matter has been receiving a lot of attention online recently. I would like to invite Ms. Peng to answer your question.

Peng Ling:

Thank you for your question. Non-Chinese permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macao participate in and contribute to the development of the two special administrative regions. Granting them with mainland travel permits is a major reform measure that embodies our full and accurate implementation of the One Country, Two Systems policy. It also aligns with the new demands and expectations of the Hong Kong and Macao societies, significantly accelerating institutional openness in the field of entry and exit.

There are advantages for permit holders in contrast to the previous requirement of a passport for travel. First, the permit's five-year validity allows for unlimited travel to and from the mainland, facilitating spontaneous trips. Furthermore, each entry allows for a stay of up to 90 days on the mainland, fully meeting the practical demands of investment negotiations, business collaboration, scientific exchanges and personal visits. Additionally, permit holders benefit from expedited customs clearance, as they are exempt from filling out entry cards and can use fast-track lanes at border inspections, thereby experiencing China's speed and efficiency.

Since the policy took effect on July 10, in just over one month, nearly 30,000 non-Chinese permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macao have applied for permits. Some individuals have already enjoyed the enhanced efficiency and convenience of this streamlined border crossing process on the very day they received their permits.

Looking ahead, we will further explore and expand the practical applications of the One Country, Two Systems policy in the realm of entry and exit strategies. Our goal is to enhance mutual exchanges between the peoples of the mainland, Hong Kong and Macao, continually injecting new impetus into the socioeconomic development of Hong Kong and Macao. Thank you.