On support for Hong Kong, Macao

-- Within this year a supplement agreement to the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) will be signed, which will further increase the access to the mainland market for the services sector in Hong Kong.

-- Construction of the proposed bridge connecting Hong Kong, Macao, and Zhuhai will start before the end of this year.

-- "The motherland will always provide the strongest support for Hong Kong and Macao."

On the target of 8 percent economic growth this year

-- China faces difficulties in achieving the goal of 8 percent economic growth in 2009, but it is possible with "considerable efforts".

--"It is just like we need compass on a sailing vessel to know where we are heading for and when we will arrive at the destination."

-- China has three advantages to achieve the target: a huge and expansive market; a reservoir of labor resources and talents; a healthy and stable finance system thanks to reforms over the past decade.

On Tibet and Dalai Lama

-- Talks between the central government and the Dalai Lama may continue if he is sincere and really gives up his separatist attempt.

-- The Dalai Lama can change his course, but he can never deny what he has said in the past.

-- Tibet is an inalienable part of China and issues related to Tibet are China's internal affairs which should not be interfered by foreign countries.

-- Stability and development of Tibet has demonstrated that the Chinese central government has carried out correct policies in the region.

-- China hopes the French side would show its clear-cut attitude toward Tibet-related issues to help recover relations between China and France as quickly as possible.

On Taiwan issues

-- The economic ties between the mainland and Taiwan are almost "indiscerptible," and with such close ties, "We should step up cooperation to confront the financial crisis together."

-- "Although I am 67 years old, if it is possible, I would like to go to Taiwan. Even if I can no longer walk, I will crawl to Taiwan."

-- The mainland is willing to have consultations for Taiwan's participation in international organizations for the benefits of Taiwan compatriots.