That has been the CPC Central Committee's consistent stance on Hong Kong and also the expectations of the Hong Kong compatriots, he said.

Zhang's words were a clear show of determination and sincerity to push for universal suffrage in Hong Kong, said Chan Yung, who is also an NPC deputy.

The Chinese central government and the HKSAR authorities have made "unremitting efforts" toward the implementation of "one man, one vote" in 2017, he said, adding that Hong Kong people should make the most of the momentum.

His words were echoed by Leung Kwan-yuen, a member of the HKSAR Legislative Council, noting that Hong Kong must stick to the Basic Law and the Aug. 31 decision by the NPC Standing Committee.

"Democratic development of Hong Kong must be underpinned by the rule of law," said Leung, who is also a member of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee.

Chan Yung, meanwhile, pointed to a latest survey by the Hong Kong-based One Country Two Systems Research Institute, which showed 60 percent of respondents welcome the existing constitutional reform plan.

"Members of the HKSAR Legislative Council should conform to the public opinion, back Hong Kong's democratic development and ensure the implementation of universal suffrage in the 2017 election of HKSAR chief executive... That is the best embodiment of democracy, " Chan Yung said.