Chinese premier meets HK chief executive

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, right, meets with Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying on Friday at Ziguangge building inside Zhongnanhai, an office compound of the Chinese central authorities in the heart of Beijing, capital of China, Dec 26, 2014. Leung was in Beijing to report on his work to the central government. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Premier Li Keqiang met Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying, who was in Beijing on Dec 26 to report on his work to the central government.

Li said the central government fully acknowledged the work done by Leung and the SAR government this year as they were not afraid to deal with difficulties and were united in their determination to preserve stability in Hong Kong.

Li said he hoped Hong Kong, a key global financial, trade and shipping hub, would fully utilize its advantages, maintain its good business environment and competitiveness, and improve social development and people's well-being.

The Premier said the central government would continue to adhere to the "one country, two systems" policy, handle issues in strict conformity with the Basic Law of Hong Kong, and support the SAR government to govern according to law.

Li said the country's deepening reform and the rule of law would bring more opportunities for the development of Hong Kong, calling on Hong Kong to strengthen cooperation with the Chinese mainland.

Leung thanked the central government's acknowledgment and support to the SAR government, saying the recently launched Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect achieved positive results, and helped to strengthen the links between Hong Kong and the mainland and boost Hong Kong's financial sector.

The landmark Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect, which is aimed at linking up the stock exchanges of Hong Kong and Shanghai, was officially launched in November.

In the coming year, the Hong Kong SAR government will be committed to developing the city's economy, improving people's well-being and pushing forward the development of the city's political system, said Leung.