Warm welcome: Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Chairman Jia Qinglin and Chief Executive Donald Tsang propose a toast at the Hong Kong Government welcoming dinner.

Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Chairman Jia Qinglin says Hong Kong people are fully capable of administering the city well, adding expediting economic development and boosting harmony offers a solution to Hong Kong's problems and challenges.

Speaking at the Hong Kong Government welcoming dinner tonight, Chairman Jia said the Chief Executive and his administration have, with the strong support of the Central Government, led Hong Kong people in overcoming difficulties and making economic and social development progress.

Hard-won progress

Noting the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement has boosted business ties between the Mainland and Hong Kong and expedited economic recovery and growth, he said such progress is hard-won and should be cherished.

He said Hong Kong must now accelerate development as continued economic growth and improvement of people's lives is the enduring driving force behind the city's social progress.

"The prosperity in Hong Kong today is the result of development. And only development can address deep-rooted problems and challenges Hong Kong faces. As economic globalisation deepens, science and technology make rapid advances and as competition of overall strength among nations and regions is mounting, Hong Kong can retain its edge, continue to be an international financial, trade and shipping centre with which to promote progress in other areas only if it focuses on economic development.

"When this is done, Hong Kong will not be marginalised. Instead, it can be expected to play a more important role in China's overall development and lead in global competition."

Mr Jia said pluralism and diversity is Hong Kong's distinctive feature and the source of its dynamism and vitality.

"To see pluralism and diversity in a proper context is important for ensuring Hong Kong's harmony and stability. It is normal that people from different social groups, professions and sectors may differ in their views on certain issues. What is important, however, is to enhance common understanding by seeking common ground while setting aside differences, by being tolerant and by communicating with each other rationally.

"Everyone should be guided by the concept of One Country, Two Systems and the principles of the Basic Law and bear in mind Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability in whatever one does. Only when everyone puts Hong Kong's overall and fundamental interests above everything else can the people of Hong Kong enjoy harmony and prosperity."

Staunch support

Chief Executive Donald Tsang said Hong Kong's economy has continued to develop rapidly, with steady growth in many of the economic indicators. This owes much to the hard work and creative spirit of the Hong Kong people, as well as Central Government support.

He said Mr Jia's presence also reflects the Central Government's staunch support for Hong Kong.

Noting Hong Kong is a pluralistic community, Mr Tsang hoped people will share the same love for the Mainland and for Hong Kong, adding the Government will work with different sectors to bolster the city's competitiveness.

"As we enter the tenth year of reunification, Hong Kong people should have a broader vision of the future. Harmony is the cornerstone of stability and prosperity. Let us put aside our differences and work in concert for the further development of our country and Hong Kong."