HONG KONG, June 12 (Xinhua) -- The inaugural International Conference on Roads and Railways opened on Thursday to explore the blueprint of post-2030 transport infrastructure in Hong Kong.

Attended by experts on road and railways development as well as representatives from leading contractors worldwide, the two-day event is expected to help expand Hong Kong's network for international cooperation in terms of transport infrastructure.

Paul Chan, financial secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government, said while addressing the event that the current era of rapid technological advancement and growing climate urgency calls for smarter and greener infrastructure.

"Around the world, the momentum towards smart and sustainable mobility is accelerating. Emerging technologies including artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things are transforming how we plan and manage transport infrastructure," Chan said.

"Hong Kong is a compact and high-density city, where land is scarce and infrastructure must coexist with tight urban spaces. This has made us a pioneer in transit-oriented development, with railways serving as the backbone of urban development," said Chan, outlining technological expertise, professional excellence, smart and green innovation as well as financing as areas where Hong Kong can share useful experience. Enditem