Hu Jintao meets leaders attending Boao Forum
Chinese President Hu Jintao has met with former Philippines President and Chairman of the Boao Forum's Board of Directors Fidel V. Ramos. In separate meetings on Friday evening, the president had talks with the chief executives of Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions.
While talking with Ramos, President Hu recalled their meeting three years ago when the Boao Forum was still a tentative plan. Hu Jintao praised Ramo's contribution to promoting Sino-Philippine ties. On behalf of the forum's Board of Directors, Ramos welcomed Hu to the forum, and thanked him for the consistent support of Chinese leaders. Ramos noted the forum's fast development is due to the contribution of various Asian countries. With its important position in Asia, Ramos said China's contribution is especially significant.
In his meeting with Tung Chee-hwa and Edmund Ho Hau Wah, Hu Jintao stressed the central government will unswervingly implement the "one country, two systems" principle. The president also promised full support to the two chief executives and their regional governments, as they work out legal frameworks for the SARs. Hu said the central government is committed to maintaining the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong and Macao.