China on Wednesday approved a feasibility report on the construction of a bridge linking its economic hub Guangdong to Hong Kong and Macao, a move widely expected to improve economic efficiency in the affluent Pearl River Delta.

The decision was made at an executive meeting of the State Council, or the Cabinet, which was chaired by Premier Wen Jiabao.

Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, which will be built according to the six-lane expressway standard with a vehicle speed of 100 km/h, will promote the construction of a comprehensive transportation system and build a highway network in Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao after completion.

The project is expected to raise the overall competitiveness of the Pearl River Delta, maintain the lasting prosperity and stability of Hong Kong and Macao and boost coordinated social and economic development of the Pearl River region.