The office signed the agreement for a personnel exchange program with its Hong Kong counterpart earlier this month, under which the two cities will each year send officials to work in the other government for three to six months between 2002 and 2005.

The program is part of efforts by the municipal government to introduce overseas expertise, according to the office's public-relations department.

Around five civil servants from various departments of the municipal government will be sent to Hong Kong in mid-September, said Pan Renjian, an official with the office who is in charge of the project.

According to Pan, "a few" Hong Kong civil servants -- covering urban construction, environmental protection and transportation -- will also arrive in Shanghai next month.

Both governments will benefit from the program as a result that their staff's work capability will improve through the exchange of administrative experience and technical know-how, said Pan.

Economic relations between the two cities will also be enhanced under the program as both governments have pledged to offer more localized services for business in their jurisdiction, according to the office.

The two cities are also considering mutual recognition of 10 professional qualifications, covering engineering and other sectors.

(Xinhua News Agency August 29, 2002)