Office of the HKSAR Government in Beijing

The Beijing Office was established in March 1999 in accordance with Article 22 of the Basic Law. Its role is to enhance liaison and communication between the HKSAR Government and the CPG and other Mainland provincial/municipal authorities.

Through its liaison work, the Beijing Office provides information about Hong Kong to the CPG, other Mainland authorities and non-governmental bodies. It keeps the relevant bureaux and departments of the HKSAR Government informed about the latest developments in the Mainland. This enables the Government to have a better understanding of the policies and practices in the Mainland so as to evaluate their possible implications on Hong Kong. On the instructions of the bureaux and departments of the HKSAR Government, the Beijing Office takes necessary actions with the Mainland authorities on specific issues. The Beijing Office also provides logistical support to visiting delegations of the HKSAR Government. In 2001, the office handled 632 trade, economic and general enquiries and requests for assistance.

The Beijing Office regularly organises activities to promote Hong Kong with a view to enhancing the Mainland people's understanding of Hong Kong's systems and latest developments, strengthening trade and economic links, as well as facilitating exchanges between Hong Kong and the Mainland. In 2001, the Beijing Office planned and assisted in the implementation of the HKSAR Delegation's visit to the Western Region. It also organised promotional activities in Chongqing and Ningxia.

In addition, the Beijing Office handles immigration matters. It processes applications for entry to Hong Kong and conducts negotiations on visa-free access with foreign diplomatic missions in Beijing. The office also provides practical assistance to Hong Kong residents in distress in the Mainland, and handles on request cases involving the detention of Hong Kong residents in the Mainland. During the year, the office handled 224 cases involving the provision of practical assistance to Hong Kong residents.