HONG KONG: Chief Executive Donald Tsang presented the second and last policy address of his current term of office yesterday at the Legislative Council.

Hong Kong Chief Executive Donald Tsang delivers his policy speech at Hong Kong's Legislative Council October 11, 2006. [Reuters]

The title of his speech "Proactive, Pragmatic, Always People First" pointed to the recurring theme of his blueprint for the development of the SAR in the coming year, as well as the spirit and principles behind it.

"Economy", "Family" and "Environment" were the three focal points of the address.

"In the coming year, the top of my policy agenda will be economic development, wealth creation, improving people's livelihood and enhancing the quality of life, in particular, strengthened support for families and intensified efforts in our anti-pollution strategy," Tsang said.

He pointed out the paramount significance of economic progress, as many things Hong Kong people value happy families and clean environment depend on it.

To this end, he pledged to enter into more economic and trade arrangements and expand the air services network and Hong Kong airport's air cargo and passenger capacity. Joint efforts with the mainland will be made to enhance cross-boundary cargo flows.

Financial initiatives such as amending listing rules to facilitate foreign enterprises' listing in the territory were put forward to cement the city's status as an Asian financial centre.