The key to ensuring Hong Kong's stability and development is setting aside differences and being inclusive, President Hu Jintao says. More emphasis should be put on national education for youngsters, who are the future of Hong Kong and the Mainland.

"We should foster a strong sense of national identity among the young people in Hong Kong and promote exchanges between them and the young people of the Mainland so that they will carry forward the Hong Kong people's great tradition of 'loving the motherland and loving Hong Kong'," President Hu said.

He also urged Hong Kong people to unite and work together for Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability.

Chief's speech: President Hu Jintao and Chief Executive Donald Tsang speak at the welcoming banquet, and propose a toast to guests.

Hong Kong wisdom

Speaking to about 500 guests at a welcoming banquet the Government hosted tonight, President Hu said Hong Kong has maintained its status as a free port and international finance, trade and logistics centre since the reunification. The city's economic growth, its increasing influence in the global arena, improvements in people's livelihood and stronger public confidence have also demonstrated Hong Kong people's ability and wisdom.

Hong Kong has surely come a long way, but this has not been easy, and the people of Hong Kong should cherish their hard-won progress, he added.

Noting 'One country, two systems' is the best arrangement to uphold Hong Kong's long-term stability and prosperity, President Hu said the city has maintained its unqiue strengths with the Mainland's strong support. It enables Hong Kong and the Mainland to complement each other and achieve common development.

Therefore, 'One country, two systems' is not only beneficial to Hong Kong and the Mainland, but also international investors and regional economic development.

He called on Hong Kong people to treasure the good situation now and work together for the interest of both Hong Kong and the Mainland.

Living reality

Also speaking at the welcoming banquet, Chief Executive Donald Tsang said the past decade saw the great concept of 'One country, two systems' turned into a living reality.

"Today, the world can see that under 'One country, two systems', Hong Kong is more vibrant than ever. The rapid development of the Mainland has undoubtedly presented us with more opportunities. Globalisation, and the rise of our nation, have become a single driver for Hong Kong's development.

"As China's revolving door to the international arena, Hong Kong plays a significant role in the development of our Motherland. As a result, Hong Kong has become more prosperous and we have consolidated our status as an international centre for finance, trade and shipping," Mr Tsang added.

He expressed confidence that Hong Kong will shine brighter under the innovative concept of 'One country, two systems' and be able to contribute even more to the Mainland's development in the years ahead.

Brighter outlook

Earlier today, President Hu met about 200 people from different sectors. He said experience in the past 10 years has led to a firm belief that Hong Kong will have an even brighter future, adding that Hong Kong people have the wisdom and the ability to manage and develop the city well.

He urged Hong Kong people to unremittingly uphold 'One country, two systems' and the Basic Law, support the Government in accordance with the law, develop the economy, improve people's livelihood, promote democracy, and work towards a harmonious society.

President Hu then met a group of Central Government officials based in Hong Kong and senior executives of Hong Kong-based Chinese enterprises. After the welcoming banquet, he will attend a variety show to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

At 11pm, National People's Congress Standing Committee Vice-Chairman Sheng Huaren will officiate at a bell-ringing Buddhist ceremony at the Cultural Centre Piazza to pray for peace and prosperity for Hong Kong, the Mainland and the world.