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The Central Policy Unit (CPU) today (May 12) announced that the Public Policy Research (PPR) Funding Scheme will include the subject of "One Belt One Road" as a new indicative research area. Eligible parties are invited to apply.
The Central Government has put forward initiatives for building the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, or "One Belt One Road" in short. These economic co-operation corridors, spanning different regions in Asia, Europe and Africa, will promote co-development among countries and foster co-operation in the political, economic and social areas. The initiatives feature "five links" in the arenas of policy, facilities, trade, capital and culture. In Hong Kong, the 2015-16 Budget has indicated that we should prepare well and seize the opportunities provided by "One Belt One Road". The CPU encourages academics and researchers to explore what role Hong Kong could play in the strategic policy of "One Belt One Road", to analyse and trace the latest political, economic and social developments on the Mainland, and propose strategic research topics, research methodologies, and activities such as meetings and workshops to strengthen the interaction between academia, think tanks and public policy research institutions in Hong Kong and "One Belt One Road" countries. Research proposals from tertiary institutions and think tanks are welcome.
The Government introduced the PPR Funding Scheme in 2005 to promote public policy research. From 2013-14 onwards, the CPU is administering the Scheme. From 2015-16, the Scheme may allocate $30 million annually. To increase the Scheme's flexibility and to cater for potential applicants' needs, applications will be accepted throughout the year. Applications will be processed upon receipt. Details of the PPR Funding Scheme, including the eligibility criteria, the indicative research areas, the composition of the Assessment Panel and other information can be found on the CPU website (www.cpu.gov.hk). Applicants should complete the specified application form and submit it to the CPU, preferably by email (email: ppr@cpu.gov.hk).
Ends/Tuesday, May 12, 2015
Issued at HKT 17:31
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