The central government will abide by the "one country, two systems" policy and support the Hong Kong government in its future administration, said State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan on Monday.

Hong Kong had developed soundly recently thanks to the support of the central government and the government and the people of Hong Kong, Tang said in a meeting with James Hughes-Hallett, chairman of the Swire Group.

The stability and sound business environment of Hong Kong should be safeguarded so that Hong Kong could continue to play the role as an international financial, trade and shipping center, he said.

"It is not only the wish of the Chinese people including the Hong Kong compatriots, but also the will of foreign investors," said Tang.

The central government would continue to support the Hong Kong government in developing the economy, improving living standards and maintaining social stability, Tang said, inviting the Swire Group to play a more active role in Hong Kong's future development and in economic cooperation between the mainland and Hong Kong.

(Xinhua News Agency September 19, 2006)