BEIJING, Dec. 30 -- Chinese leaders have met separately with chief executives from the Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macao in Beijing. Both of the executives are in the capital to report on their work.

    President Hu Jintao says Hong Kong is enjoying social stability and a strengthening economy. This, after listening to a report from the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR, Donald Tsang. President Hu also noted that the lives of the people in Hong Kong have been getting better and better. Hu Jintao says he also hopes the people in the S.A.R. will continue their pursuit of a more prosperous and harmonious Hong Kong.     

    President Hu Jintao also met with the Chief Executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region, Edmund Ho Hao Wah. President Hu Jintao remarked that the regional economy has been steadily developing. He also noted that social security has increased since the return of Macao to China seven years ago. President Hu also pledged that the central government would continue its support for the development of Macao. This, to enhance its long term social stability and prosperity in the region.

    The two S.A.R. chiefs also reported on their work to Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao.

    Earlier, Donald Tsang held talks with the Minister of Commerce, Bo Xilai. Among other issues, they discussed CEPA -- the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement -- that has been in effect for 3 years. Tsang noted that the third phase of the CEPA is underway.

    Donald Tsang, Hong Kong SAR Chief Executive said: "To better promote communication and cooperation, the Ministry of Commerce and the Hong Kong SAR will continue to further push CEPA, based on substantial needs."

    Tsang also visited several other ministries. Other than CEPA issues such as environmental protection and food safety were also on the agenda.

    (Source: CCTV.com)