Spring Festival Greetings: Guangdong Governor Highlights Economic Growth, Regional Integration

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 3 (Bernama) -- On the eve of the Chinese Lunar New Year, Guangdong Governor Wang Weizhong extended heartfelt greetings on behalf of the Provincial Government and its residents to overseas Chinese, Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan compatriots, and international friends.

Reflecting on 2024, Wang highlighted Guangdong’s economic milestones, including a gross domestic product (GDP) of 14 trillion Chinese yuan and foreign trade surpassing nine trillion Chinese yuan. (100 Chinese yuan = RM61.88)

The province's urban and rural development initiatives, such as the "High-Quality Development Project for Counties, Towns, and Villages", supported industrial growth and modernisation.

Guangdong has advanced its regional integration within the Greater Bay Area (GBA), celebrating the initiative’s fifth anniversary, according to a statement.

New policies in Hengqin, Qianhai, and Nansha, along with improved cross-border mobility via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link, strengthened economic ties.

Furthermore, key trade events, including the Canton Fair and China Airshow, attracted thousands of businesses, reinforcing the province as a leading investment hub with over 19 million registered business entities.

The province also led in technological innovation, securing its eighth consecutive national innovation title with major achievements including the launch of the “Meng Xiang” ocean drilling vessel, “Made in Guangdong” rockets, as well as advancements in AI, integrated circuits, and aerospace.

Beyond economic growth, Guangdong also focused on social development with initiatives such as improving employment opportunities, childcare, elder care, and the environment.

Looking forward to 2025, Wang reaffirmed Guangdong’s commitment to continuing economic growth, implementing reforms, and fostering global collaboration, with the key highlight being the National Games in November, co-hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao, marking a milestone in regional cooperation.

-- BERNAMA