Innovation and technology secretary Sun Dong on Sunday said the mainland will share its scientific data with Hong Kong, strengthening cooperation in science and technology.

He made the remark in reference to an agreement he signed in Beijing on Wednesday to speed up the building of an international innovative technology hub in the SAR.

Speaking on a radio programme, he said it's the first agreement signed after the 'two sessions' meeting in the capital, showing how both the central and Hong Kong governments highly value innovation and technology development.

Sun said he hopes Hong Kong will soon be able to access the China Scientific & Technological Achievements Database, including its scientific research papers and achievements.

"Hong Kong aims to build a data hub, so Hong Kong wants to build this international centre in several areas, including AI and data science. Therefore, we have done a lot of work, trying to attract data from mainland China, as well as overseas," he said.

But Sun said the government is still in discussion with mainland authorities on how to manage the shared data, including on areas such as law enforcement.

The minister added that the first three buildings of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park in the Lok Ma Chau Loop will be completed next year.

Sun said many companies have expressed interest in this "exclusive" area as they "may be able" to enjoy the policies of both Hong Kong and the mainland.