Beijing to take a more active role in Hong Kong's affairs, hints Xi Jinping
President tells tycoons 'one country, two systems' will stay, but highlights central government leadership role and need to tailor 'one man, one vote'
President Xi Jinping has reiterated that the central government's policies towards Hong Kong will remain unchanged but hinted that Beijing would play a more active role in the city's affairs.
Speaking to a delegation of senior figures from the city's business and professional sectors, Xi said the implementation of "one man, one vote" in Hong Kong must be tailored to the specific situation of the country and the city.
Xi also vowed to support the Hong Kong government in the face of any activities that destroy social order, an implicit reference to the upcoming Occupy Central protest.
Xi said Beijing's policies towards Hong Kong had not changed and would not change. "We shall firmly adhere to the 'one country, two systems' [principle] and the Basic Law. [We shall] firmly push ahead with Hong Kong's democratic development, and maintain Hong Kong's prosperity and stability."
But he also highlighted the role Beijing should play. "I sincerely hope that Hong Kong, under the leadership of the central government and under the stewardship of the chief executive, can continue to advance and create a better future."
The city's richest man, Li Ka-shing, who stood next to the president in the photo session, told Xi that he hoped to see Hong Kong move towards universal suffrage, according to one person present at the meeting.