China's top legislator calls for strong confidence in "one country, two systems", Hong Kong's future

China's top legislator Zhang Dejiang said here on Wednesday evening that strong confidence in "one country, two systems" principle and Hong Kong's future is needed.

Zhang, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, said at a welcome dinner that there are three reasons for enhancing confidence in the "one country, two systems" principle.

Firstly, the "one country, two systems" principle, a fundamental state policy and a strategic choice, not a makeshift, will not be changed. Secondly, the "one country, two systems" principle, which has a firm base of public opinion, is the largest denominator between the mainland and Hong Kong and should not be changed. Thirdly, the "one country, two systems" principle which is a good and feasible system well tested since Hong Kong's return to the motherland need not be changed.

The claim that the central government will "mainlandize" Hong Kong is entirely groundless, Zhang said, adding that as "one country, two systems" is in the interest of the whole nation, the central government will carry out the principle unswervingly so that Hong Kong society can rest assured.

There are also three reasons for having strong confidence in Hong Kong's future, Zhang said.

Firstly, the overall trend of the world's development is beneficial for Hong Kong. Secondly, the mainland's development has brought about great opportunities for Hong Kong. Thirdly, Hong Kong's advantages could hardly be replaced.

Only if Hong Kong people could work at their utmost to strive for excellence, seize opportunities, make good use of the supportive policies of the central government and identify "what the country needs, what Hong Kong is good at," will the region be able to realize its full potential amid the country's development, said Zhang. Endit