Donald Tsang Yam-kuen, chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), pledged Wednesday to pursue strong governance during his term.

Tsang made the remarks in his first policy address since he took the reign of the HKSAR in June.

The chief executive said pursuing excellent governance is the most pressing public demand in Hong Kong at the moment.

Hong Kong needs a strong government to implement the policy of "one country, two systems," to promote social harmony and to enhance economic growth, he said.

"My administration will faithfully and responsibly exercise allpowers and functions vested in us under the Basic Law," the chief executive said.

He said the HKSAR government exercises its powers and functionsin great transparency and under the watchful eye of the public.

"A strong government does not work behind closed doors," he added.

Both the executive authorities and the legislature must exercise their powers and functions in a highly transparent manner in Hong Kong, Tsang said.

If both follow mainstream public opinion, he added, they should naturally work on a common policy agenda that would form a strong foundation to bring about effective governance, in line with people's expectations.

The official said a strong government hinges on the political skills and the cohesion and co-operation of the governing team.

Editor: Yan