Most people accept the National People's Congress Standing Committee's decision on Hong Kong's political reform and the need to take the gradual and orderly approach as spelled out in the Basic Law, Chief Executive Donald Tsang says. He urged people to focus on what is possible rather than what is not.

Delivering his Letter to Hong Kong today, Mr Tsang said some people are naturally disappointed that Hong Kong cannot achieve universal suffrage for both the Chief Executive and Legislative Council in 2012.

"I understand their disappointment, and I respect them for their commitment to reach this goal as early as possible. But, now that a timetable has been set, I hope everyone will be able to focus on what is possible, rather than what is not," he said.

Clear timetable

"For the first time, Hong Kong has a clear timetable for achieving universal suffrage in both the Chief Executive and Legislative Council elections. This is an historic opportunity. We should embrace it. At the same time, we should also understand that this opportunity carries enormous responsibility," he added.

Noting the Central Government has placed its trust in Hong Kong to make progress for the Chief Executive and LegCo elections in 2012, Mr Tsang said Hong Kong people must achieve this milestone.

"It's crunch time for everyone involved in our political development. It's never been a question of whether, it's no longer a question of when - it's now a question of 'how'. And if we can't make progress in 2012 it will not only be a great disservice to the people of Hong Kong, it will also be a great disservice to our country. We've got our wish for a timetable - now it's up to us to fill in the blanks," he added.

The Government will start devising ways to boost democratic participation for the 2012 elections for the Chief Executive and Legislative Council.

Rational approach

"Obviously, political parties will be involved. And obviously there will have to be some give and take as we hammer out the details. But if we all approach this matter candidly, calmly, rationally and pragmatically, I am sure we can forge a consensus that is broadly acceptable to most in Hong Kong. Indeed, this is our obligation to the community," Mr Tsang said.

The Chief Executive pointed out that political progress in Hong Kong is about building trust - trust between the executive branch and LegCo, trust between the Government and the people of Hong Kong, trust between the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Central Authorities.

"Building trust takes much time and effort, and can be easily shattered. The most vital ingredient is sincerity. Sincerity to listen to different views; to be open to new possibilities; to find common ground; to do what's best for most in the long run.

"It is my sincere wish that we make progress in 2012. I know that it is also the sincere wish of the Central Government. I am certain that Hong Kong people want to see progress as well," Mr Tsang added.