Xi and Leung call for unity

New Chinese President supports Leung’s move to seek change while maintaining stability.

Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang called for unity in Hong Kong with Xi also urging solidarity. Speaking at a meeting with Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying in Beijing, Xi said he was glad to see public support for Leung's policy of “introducing changes to Hong Kong while preserving stability.”

He said the key now is to make them a reality, adding this is Hong Kong’s responsibility. He hopes Hong Kong’s people can unite and support Leung and the government to rule according to the law and work for a better Hong Kong.

On behalf of Hong Kong, Leung congratulated Xi for being elected President and thanked him for his advice to the government.

Li also met with Leung and said Hong Kong plays an important role in China’s development. He said the new central government will uphold the “One country, two systems” policy and the Basic Law.

He said the central government will promote policies that benefit the people of Hong Kong, strengthen exchanges between the Mainland and Hong Kong and take measures that are conducive to Hong Kong’s long-term prosperity and stability.

Leung urged Hong Kong’s citizens to unite and make the best use of the country’s policies for the betterment of the city. Leung told Li that Hong Kong is committed to introducing universal suffrage for the Chief Executive in 2017 according to the Basic Law and the National People’s Congress decision.