Top political adviser Jia Qinglin yesterday praised Hong Kong Chief Executive Donald Tsang for his good work, reiterating the central government's full support for Tsang and his administration.

During their meeting, organized as part of his three-day official visit to the special administrative region, Jia said the central government and people of the mainland are very watchful of Hong Kong's development.

He said Hong Kong is in a fairly good situation, with increasing economic growth, a stable social order and improving welfare.

"We are very gratified to see all that," he added.

He wished Hong Kong an even better future under Tsang's leadership and the joint efforts of the local government and people from all walks of life.

Jia, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, arrived in Hong Kong yesterday morning.

He is scheduled to attend the third anniversary of the signing of CEPA, the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement, a free trade pact within China issued by Premier Wen Jiabao in 2003.

The highlight of his trip will be delivering a keynote speech tomorrow at the opening ceremony of the Mainland, Hong Kong and Macao Trade and Economic Co-operation Forum.

Jia told reporters at the Hong Kong Lok Ma Chau cross-boundary check point, at which he entered Hong Kong, that this is his first visit to the region in 12 years. He said he hoped to explore ways of forging closer economic and trade ties between the mainland, Hong Kong and Macao.

He asked the more than 80 reporters covering the event to convey his greetings and best wishes to his Hong Kong compatriots.

Jia also stopped by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority to enjoy its spectacular view of Victoria Harbour and West Kowloon. He was also given a briefing on the city's role as an international financial centre and the development of renminbi business in the region.

Jia vowed that the central government will continue to adopt measures to support local financial development.

"We will actively push forward any measures which will be conducive to the consolidation of Hong Kong's position as an international financial centre," he said.

Source: China Daily