Chinese premier voices adherence to HK, Macao policies

Premier Wen Jiabao on Friday said central authorities will adhere to the "one country, two systems" principle and the two Basic Laws concerning Hong Kong and Macao.

Wen made the remarks while meeting with CY Leung, chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) and Chui Sai On, chief executive of the Macao SAR.

Central authorities will adhere to the principle of "one country, two systems" under which the people of Hong Kong govern Hong Kong and the people of Macao govern Macao with a high degree of autonomy, Wen said.

He said central authorities will act strictly in accordance with the Basic Laws of the two SARs and give "firm support" to the chief executives and governments of the two SARs.

He said he believes Hong Kong and Macao will achieve new progress in promoting economic and social development, as well as effectively improve people's well-being.

Leung and Chui are in Beijing to brief officials on recent economic, social and political developments in the two SARs.

Wen said the meeting would mark the last time for him to hear reports from the chief executives.

He expressed gratitude for the support and help offered to the central government by people from Hong Kong and Macao.

"I miss our compatriots in Hong Kong and Macao very much. I believe Hong Kong and Macao will have a better future," he said.