Premier Wen Jiabao yesterday spoke highly of Hong Kong's medical professionals and other frontline workers in the fight against SARS.

"On behalf of the central government, I wish to pay high tribute to all those who have made remarkable contributions to the successful campaign against SARS," Wen told a group of Hong Kong healthcare workers and other representatives at a ceremony in honour of their work.

He extended the central government's heartfelt condolences to families who lost loved ones to the disease.

Wen said that during the epidemic, Hong Kong health workers fought the disease with extraordinary courage and selflessness and its scientific experts raced against time to seek solutions. Its citizens united to battle the virus, and its government fulfilled its duties and commitment to the people.

"It is such unprecedented solidarity that has enabled Hong Kong to prevail in the fight against SARS," said Wen.

He said that while the SARS outbreak had cost the city dearly, it also showed people that economic advances must go hand-in-hand with social progress, and man and nature must co-exist peacefully.

Before attending the ceremony yesterday, Wen impressed Hong Kong residents with his relaxed, casual style.

"He's very natural," said 45-year-old housewife Connie Wong, who shook Wen's hand during his surprise visit to a French-style sandwich shop.

"He's very friendly," she said. "He has a great smile."

Wen was also welcomed by residents of Amoy Gardens and the healthcare workers at the Prince of Wales Hospital.

Wen took part in no less than seven activities on the second day of his visit to Hong Kong.

He began the day with a tour of a container terminal before embarking on a boat trip around the Tsing Ma Bridge and the site of the Disney theme park, which is to be completed in 2005.

Marvelling at the vibrant development, Wen said: "I am very happy about the achievements that Hong Kong has attained. Hong Kong people are proud of this, every Chinese is proud of this."

Wen later visited Amoy Gardens, where more than 40 residents were killed and about 300 infected by SARS.

He then went to Prince of Wales Hospital, where many healthcare workers fell ill in the early stages of the outbreak.

Showing his appreciation of their hard work, Wen wrote on a commemorative plaque a "Tribute to Healthcare Workers," signing his name before presenting it to the hospital.

In the afternoon, Wen visited the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

He also toured the medical faculty of the University of Hong Kong, where he delivered a short speech to about 100 staff and students.

"We should have confidence that we can not only run Hong Kong well but also preserve the prosperity and stability in Hong Kong," Wen said.

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