‍Chinese President Xi Jinping met with representatives of Hong Kong's industrial and business circles on Friday afternoon and called on them to serve as a "bridge" between the government and the Hong Kong people. 

Xi praised their efforts and contributions to the region’s stability and prosperity after Hong Kong returned to China. He added the success of the “One Country, Two Systems” has been widely recognized. 

Xi also asked the delegations to support newly-elected chief executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, and to promote economic development and improve people's livelihood in Hong Kong.  

The Chinese president also met Friday with Tung Chee-hwa, vice chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).

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Tung, also a former chief executive of the Hong Kong SAR, had done a lot of pioneering work to successfully carry out the "One Country, Two Systems" principle in Hong Kong, Xi said. As CPPCC vice chairman, he has dedicated himself to the development and progress of the country and Hong Kong, and has set a good example for his successors, he added. 

Tung expressed his gratitude, saying he was proud of the country's achievements, led by the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping. He added he was confident “One Country, Two Systems” will keep Hong Kong stable and prosperous, and pledged to continue to make contributions to Hong Kong.

Meeting with the chief executive of the Macao SAR, Chui Sai On, who was also in Hong Kong to attend celebrations marking the 20th anniversary of its return to China, Xi said Macao had set an example in implementing the "One Country, Two Systems" principle and the Basic Law, as well as safeguarding national security and unity. 

Macao should push for economic diversification, maintain social stability and further consolidate the good conditions through pragmatic and prudent governance, Xi said.

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Chui, for his part, thanked the central government for its care and support and said Macao will stick to the national strategy and make full use of preferential policies offered by the central government. 

Xi arrived in Hong Kong on Thursday to attend celebrations for Hong Kong's 20th return anniversary and the inauguration of the new Hong Kong government.