Xi hails progress in Hong Kong, Macao

President Xi Jinping has urged the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions to actively align with the nation's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30), and better integrate into and serve the country's overall development.

Xi made the remarks on Tuesday while meeting separately with Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region John Lee Ka-chiu and Chief Executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region Sam Hou-fai, both of whom are on duty visits to Beijing.

During his meeting with Lee, Xi heard a report from the Hong Kong SAR chief executive on Hong Kong's current situation and the work of the Hong Kong SAR government.

The president said that the central authorities fully recognized the work of Lee and the Hong Kong SAR government.

Xi added that Lee has led the Hong Kong SAR government in diligently and proactively performing its duties and steadfastly upholding national sovereignty, security and development interests.

The Hong Kong SAR government has successfully held the election of the eighth-term Legislative Council and accomplished steady economic growth in the region, Xi said, adding that Hong Kong has made new progress in governance and prosperity.

Xi noted that the fourth plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China laid out strategic plans for the country's economic and social development during the 15th Five-Year Plan period, highlighting the need to unwaveringly implement the principles of "one country, two systems", "Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong", and a high degree of autonomy to promote long-term prosperity and stability in the region.

He urged the Hong Kong SAR government to actively align with the 15th Five-Year Plan, uphold and improve the executive-led government, take solid steps to promote high-quality economic development, and intensify its involvement in the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

While meeting with Sam, Xi heard a report from him on Macao's current situation and the Macao SAR government's work.

Xi said that the central authorities fully recognize the work of Sam and the Macao SAR government.

He said that Sam has led the new SAR government to be enterprising and pragmatic, resolutely safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests.

The Macao SAR government successfully held the eighth Legislative Assembly election, advanced public administration reform, and actively participated in the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, achieving notable progress, he said.

Xi emphasized the need to unwaveringly implement the principles of "one country, two systems","Macao people administering Macao", and a high degree of autonomy to promote Macao's long-term prosperity and stability.

He urged the Macao SAR government to actively align with the nation's 15th Five-Year Plan, uphold and improve the executive-led government, and take solid measures to promote appropriately diversified economic development and continuously enhance governance efficacy.

caodesheng@chinadaily.com.cn