Premier Wen Jiabao praised the development made by the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) during a meeting with Macao SAR Chief Executive Ho Hau Wah on Friday.

After hearing Ho's report on Macao's economic and social progress, Wen said, "Currently, Macao's overall situation is good, with steadily developed economy, improved living standards and a more stable society."

Wen expressed his hope that the Macao SAR government would continue to unite all social sectors to work for sustainable and coordinated economic and social development.

"The central government will adhere to the principles of 'one country, two systems', 'Macao people governing Macao' and 'a high degree of autonomy'," Wen said.

"The central government will continue to support the Macao SAR government to strictly implement the Basic Law," he said.

Wen also inquired of Ho about the effects of salt tides on Macao's water supply. Macao experiences salt tides in winter and spring when water reserves decrease and seawater flows in.

Wen said the department concerned and the Guangdong provincial government were taking measures to assist Macao in solving the problem.

Vice-Premier Wu Yi, State Councilors Tang Jiaxuan and Hua Jianmin, and Vice-Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Liao Hui were present.

(Xinhua News Agency December 30, 2006)