Before entering politics, Tung Chee-hwa was a very successful business executive, managing the global interest of Orient Overseas Container Line.
Since his appointment as chief executive, this relative novice to the political arena has been subject to daily attacks by the opposition, often personal attacks.
Yet he has now graciously shown his willingness (at least in front of the cameras) to speak to the opposition for the first time since he has been in office ('So near, yet still so far', July 29). While the meeting was too short to cover anything of substance, it was adequate as a start. Still, the same old vocal few could not wait to jump on him, lining up to voice their discontent.
Like anyone else, Mr Tung is not a saint who can forgive and forget an adversarial relationship right away.
For the sake of Hong Kong's future, Mr Tung should be engaged positively and with sincerity, and not have the door slammed in his face immediately. This also makes those chanting 'democratic reform' look narrow-minded and vengeful. Hey guys - let's forget about the past and focus on the future.
PETER CHOW, Jordan
