HONG KONG -- The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, partnering with the MTR Corporation Limited, is pressing ahead with the planning of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link, HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee has said.

Addressing the MTR 45th Anniversary Cocktail Reception on Monday, Lee said he is proud to "call the MTR one of the world's top transit systems. One that delivers reliable, efficient and safe journeys for the people of Hong Kong, and beyond."

"Today, the MTR railway network handles the daily commutes and traveling of more than 5 million passenger trips in Hong Kong. It also connects us to our country, via the Hong Kong section of the high-speed rail. That strengthens the people-to-people bonds, and business ties, between Hong Kong and a great many cities across the Chinese mainland," Lee said.

In 2023, the HKSAR government published the Hong Kong Major Transport Infrastructure Development Blueprint, which presents a planning framework for Hong Kong's transport infrastructure future, including two railway projects to help drive the full potential of the Northern Metropolis, he noted.

"The Hung Shui Kiu Station and the Northern Link Main Line will begin construction this year and next year for tentative completion in 2030 and 2034, respectively," the chief executive said.

Citing his Policy Address two weeks ago, Lee said the MTR Corporation will begin detailed planning and design for the Northern Link Spur Line early next year, "fast-tracking Hong Kong's integration with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area."