Chinese President Hu Jintao urged Hong Kong and Macao to seek further progress in economic and democratic development in the two special administrative regions (SAR) on Thursday.

He made the remarks while meeting with 280 deputies to the National People's Congress and members of the National Committee of Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) from Hong Kong and Macao.

Both SAR governments should "work hard with local people to concentrate on developing their economies, effectively improve people's livelihood, advance democracy step by step and promote social harmony in a tolerant and reconcilable social atmosphere", he emphasized.

"It has been proven by history that the principle of 'one country, two systems' ... is absolutely correct, and our compatriots from Hong Kong and Macao have the wisdom and capability to pursue a better future in the two regions," he said.

"A strong nation of China is a backup force for the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong and Macao," Hu pledged.

The President also extended his gratitude to Hong Kong and Macao people for their great contributions in helping the inland people combat this year's severe winter weather disasters.

Jia Qinglin, chairman of the CPPCC National Committee, joined panel discussions with political advisors from Hong Kong and Macao Thursday morning.

He said to maintain long-term prosperity and stability in the regions is an important issue the Communist Party of China faces in the new era, which is closely connected with basic interests of Hong Kong and Macao compatriots.

(Xinhua News Agency March 7, 2008)