Li Keqiang supports ‘one country, two systems’ principle

China’s premier Li Keqiang yesterday expressed support for the “one country, two systems” principle governing Hong Kong and Macau, unlike last year when he chose not to address such matters.
Delivering a speech at the opening ceremony of the annual National People’s Congress meeting, Li Keqiang stressed that the “one country, two systems” policy should continue governing both SARs. He recalled that Macau and Hong Kong enjoy “a high degree of autonomy in strict compliance with the Basic Laws.”
The Chinese premier also expressed support for the government and the Chief Executives of each SAR. Mr Li called for “governance in accordance to the Basic Law, as well as the promotion of democracy; economic development and harmony to offer residents a better quality of life.”
Meanwhile, he encouraged Macau, Hong Kong and China to further cooperate in various sectors. Mr Li believes that with the central government’s support, Macau and Hong Kong can boost their competitiveness to ensure a period of prosperity and stability in the longer term.
Li Keqiang’s speech focused mainly on economic issues as he set out the country’s economic goals. He unveiled a lower growth target while pledging tighter environmental controls, the BBC reported.
Li Gang, director of China’s Macau Liaison Office, yesterday reiterated Chinese president Xi Jinping’s call for the city to diversify from casinos. Gambling revenue in Macau declined by 48.9 percent last month as the anti-graft crackdown meant officials didn’t dare to visit, coupled with stricter rules and the country’s economic slowdown he said during a session of the NPC meeting held in Beijing.
Macau’s process to diversify its economy will take between 20 to 30 years to complete, and the government should strengthen its efforts to achieve this, Li Gang added. CP