China's top science academy chief called for closer regional collaboration within the Greater Bay Area to push for industrial upgrading and high-quality development at a seminar on the fourth plenum on Tuesday.

Hou Jianguo, president of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, said recommendations in the coming five-year plan demonstrate the country's emphasis on the development of Hong Kong and Macau.

The next step, Hou said, is to strengthen ties among cities in the region, leveraging each other's advantages.

"The advantages of Hong Kong and Macau in finance, tourism, commerce and trade, and scientific research should be more closely integrated with Guangdong's strengths in manufacturing and application scenarios, to make greater contributions in promoting industrial upgrading and bolstering high-quality economic and social development," Hou said.

The scientist also pointed to the need for the nation to foster more top-notch, internationally competitive professionals in innovation and technology, saying the SAR should work with higher education institutions in the bay area in aspects such as talent development.

On assisting with the country's opening up, Hou said Hong Kong, as an important international centre in finance, shipping and trade, should strengthen its role as a platform to bring in resources from outside and help the nation reach out to other parts of the world.