Four areas key to Hong Kong’s growth

Chinese President Hu Jintao said the next five years will be critical to Hong Kong’s long-term development.

Hong Kong, therefore, must seize and take advantage of the important opportunities that will emerge. He also hoped the new administration and the people of Hong Kong would work harder in four areas: foster social harmony and stability; respect the rule of law; increase competitiveness and strengthen human-resources development.

Hu said the “One country, two systems” approach is the best institutional arrangement for the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong since its return to China.

As regards promoting social harmony and stability, he said the new government must follow the principle of putting people first in its administration. It must accurately gauge public opinion and take concrete and effective measures.

Respect for the rule of law is a core value of Hong Kong, he said. The Basic Law has supreme status in Hong Kong’s legal system, and it is essential to improve the institutions and mechanisms related to its implementation.

Hong Kong must work hard to increase its competitiveness if it is to win amid increasingly intense regional and international competition. It must have better strategic planning for its long-term development and tap the government in promoting economic and social development.

Hong Kong can strengthen its human-resources development by developing education, science and technology, and culture with a view to turning out all types of high-calibre professionals at all levels required for the development of various sectors.