When British Prime Minister Tony Blair met with Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa during his visit to Hong Kong Wednesday, both of them marvelled at the success of the implementation of the "One Country, Two Systems" principle in Hong Kong over the past six years. They also recognized the aptness the SAR government has shown in handling the recent problems.

When speaking at the luncheon of the British Chamber of Commerce, Blair pointed out that the controversy surrounding Article 23 legislation has demonstrated that the "One Country, Two Systems" arrangement possesses sufficient flexibility as it allows different opinions to surface and be ironed out.

He emphasized that stability is the bedrock of Hong Kong's success, and that central leaders are dedicated to achieving that. He believed he would see even better governance in the territory in the next few years.

How should we look at the recent episodes in the SAR? Blair has provided a more objective and rational perspective. While some local critics have suggested that the government is running into a ruling crisis and that the "One Country, Two Systems" framework is also facing a grave challenge, the British prime minister has provided a third-party viewpoint. What this viewpoint has enlightened us is that: First, those disputes within the community and the mass protests and rallies have showcased the massive vitality of the principle of "One Country, Two Systems" and its profound tolerance and flexibility.

Second, when confronted with the latest challenges, the Tung administration has manifested the political wisdom and dexterity to take control of complex situations and resolve tricky problems.

Undeniably, half a million people marching in the streets would constitute a crisis in other cities. Yet, it was business as usual for the SAR government, which was even able to improve its governance and resolve problems by taking in public views. This shows that Hong Kong is a highly tolerant and vibrant cosmopolitan city.

The profound tolerance and flexibility of the principle of "One Country, Two Systems" has not only safeguarded the SAR's stability and its people's interests, it has also protected the interests of foreign investors.

The Chinese Government has always steadfastly strived to preserve the territory's prosperity and stability. Particularly in the six years after reunification, the central government has actively formulated, promoted and implemented all kinds of measures and policies that are conducive to the SAR's prosperity and stability. For instance, in addition to the Mainland-Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA), Premier Wen Jiabao has further announced the acceleration of the opening of the mainland market to the territory. The early realization of CEPA has helped the city remain stable and overcome its problems.

Enjoying the advantages of "One Country, Two Systems", Hong Kong has been named the freest economy in the world for many years in a row. It is being viewed as the best city for doing business and the investment base with the greatest potential. It is generally recognized as the best bridge and intermediary for the mainland to reach out to the world and for the world to enter the mainland market.

Six years after reunification, Hong Kong has actually attracted more foreign capital than before. Many countries, including the UK and the US, have massive investment interests here. Blair's emphasis that stability is the bedrock of success in Hong Kong showed his deep understanding that keeping Hong Kong stable also served the common interests of the world community, including those of Britain.

Recently, British and American chambers of commerce in Hong Kong have also expressed their agreement with and support to the way the Tung administration has handled the recent political developments. They have also expressed hope for social stability in Hong Kong. That shows that they understand their interests rely on the well-being of the territory.

Even foreigners hope for stability in the SAR. Hongkongers, as masters of their city and who regard it as their home, should treasure and ensure its stability.

Blair also expects the SAR government to introduce universal suffrage for the elections of the chief executive and all Legislative Councillors within the scope of the Basic Law as soon as possible.

Attention should be drawn to Blair's emphasis on his words "within the scope of the Basic Law". The Basic Law has already stipulated that such a target should be reached by taking into account Hong Kong's social realities and through a gradual process.

The Basic Law is the legal cornerstone for implementing "One Country, Two Systems" and maintaining Hong Kong's prosperity and stability. It can be seen that Blair understands very well the importance of acting according to the Basic Law.

Those locals who advocate the immediate implementation of universal suffrage should return to the right track as prescribed by the Basic Law.

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