Xi Jinping:  Policies on HK, Macao unchanged

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Xi Jinping (R), general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with CY Leung, chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 20, 2012. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin).

Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Thursday stressed that the central authorities' policies on Hong Kong and Macao will not change after the transition of power.

Xi, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, made the remarks while meeting with CY Leung, chief executive of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), in Beijing.

The central authorities' adherence to the "one country, two systems" principle and the two Basic Laws will not change, said Xi, also vice president of China.

Xi also reiterated "unchanged support" for the chief executives and governments of the two SARs in carrying out their legal duties, as well as support for the SARs' policies on promoting economic growth, social welfare, democracy and harmony.

The policies adopted last month at the 18th National Congress of the CPC are continuations of the long-term policy that focuses on the precise understanding and implementation of the "one country, two systems" principle and genuine respect for, and maintenance of, the authority of the Basic Laws, said Xi.

Xi recognized the work of Leung and the SAR government and pledged firm, continued support.

Xi recalled his notion that realizing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation is the Chinese nation's greatest dream in modern history, adding that he believes compatriots in Hong Kong share this dream.

"I believe Hong Kong compatriots will contribute to the great rejuvenation," said Xi.

Also on Thursday, Xi met with Chui Sai On, chief executive of the Macao SAR.

Xi extended greetings to Chui and compatriots in Macao, as Thursday marked the 13th anniversary of the establishment of the Macao SAR.

Moreover, Xi acknowledged that the overall situation in Macao is good and Chui's team deserves recognition for their work to unite people from all walks of life in Macao and maintain prosperity and development there.

The central authorities will continue to implement the Basic Law and the principle of "one country, two systems," under which the people of Macao govern Macao and the SAR enjoys a high degree of autonomy, said Xi.

"We have full confidence in Macao's prospects," Xi added.

Vice Premier Zhang Dejiang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, participated in both meetings.