China aims to develop the Hengqin District in southern Guangdong Province into an international tourism island in its efforts to further integrate the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

The State Council has approved, in principle, the proposal raised for such a transformation, according to a statement released Monday on its website.

Hengqin, located on an island, is next door to Macao. The 106.46-square-km region is expected to become a global tourism destination with a modern industrial system, green ecosystem and smart services.

The development of Hengqin will promote the moderate economic diversification of Macao and become a demonstration zone for the deep integration of Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao, the statement said.

A free trade pilot zone will also be promoted in the region, according to the statement.

In February 2019, Chinese authorities unveiled the outline development plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, aiming to develop the city cluster into a quality living circle for living, working, health care and traveling.

(Cover: An aerial view of Hengqin District in Zhuhai City, south China's Guangdong Province. /VCG Photo)