Encouragement from the top: Chief Executive Donald Tsang says President Hu Jintao has encouraged him to strengthen his ties with more Mainland officials and departments, seeking their continuous support for Hong Kong.

Chief Executive Donald Tsang says President Hu Jintao has encouraged him to strengthen his ties with more Mainland officials and departments, seeking their continuous support for Hong Kong.

Speaking to the media in Beijing tonight, Mr Tsang said he had talked to President Hu and Premier Wen Jiabao before the start of the fourth session of the 10th National People's Congress this morning.

President Hu asked the Chief Executive to take this opportunity to meet more relevant Mainland officials and departments, seeking their continuous support for the city.

Meanwhile, Premier Wen said he could not have a thorough discussion with Mr Tsang during his stay in Beijing because he was too busy with the National People's Congress meeting.

However, the Premier said the Chief Executive is always welcome to hold a meeting with him, if necessary.

Mr Tsang today met top officials of Guangdong and Guizhou Provinces and will hold meetings with leaders of Hunan, Guangxi and Jiangxi.