Director of Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) Gao Siren said Tuesday that a harmonious society is crucial to Hong Kong's development and prosperity.

Addressing a Chinese Lunar New Year reception hosted by the Liaison Office and extending new year greetings to people from all walks of life in Hong Kong, Gao said the year 2004 witnessed Hong Kong's overall economic recovery.

Hong Kong's economic growth rate reached 7.5 percent in 2004, the best year since Hong Kong's return to China in 1997, said Gao.

At the same time, the cooperation and exchanges between Chinese mainland and Hong Kong has entered a new stage. The mainland provides Hong Kong with vast markets, while Hong Kong continues to play its unique role to support mainland economic development, Gao said.

"We are pleased to see that seeking stability, harmony and development has become the common understanding of the society," Gao said.

He mentioned that the policy address recently delivered by Hong Kong SAR Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa has won praise of the community. Hong Kong society pays more attention to economic development and people's livelihood.

In his speech, Gao said central government has attached great importance to Hong Kong's long-term development and stability.

At present, it's a crucial time for Hong Kong's economic development. The international community is also optimistic about Hong Kong's future, Gao said.

He stressed that it is urgent for Hong Kong to grasp the good opportunity and focus on development.

As long as Hong Kong people unite, improve mutual trust and help each other, the society must be more harmonious and the future must be better, Gao added.

Source: Xinhua