People from all walks of life in Hong Kong Sunday congratulated Tung Chee Hwa, former chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) for being elected as vice chairman of the 10th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference CPPCC), China's top political advisory body.

Many Hong Kong communities pointed out that the fact that Tung was elected as CPPCC vice chairman is an affirmation to Tung's success in practicing the principle of "one country, two systems". "His new position will help further promote the relations between Chinese mainland and Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions said in a congratulation letter that Tung has done a great deal of pioneering work in successfully practicing the principles of "one country, two systems," "Hong Kong people governing Hong Kong".

Tung has set a right development direction for Hong Kong to give full play to its advantages. Under the support of the central government and with the joint efforts of Hong Kong people, Tung helped maintain social stability in Hong Kong and promote the early revival of local economy, the federation said.

Tsang Yok-Sing, a member of the Hong Kong Legislative Council, said Tung was elected as vice chairman of CPPCC, which shows the central government pays great importance to Hong Kong. He expressed his belief that Tung will continue to promote the relations between Chinese mainland and Hong Kong by taking advantage of his understanding of "one country, two systems" and nation's situation.

Ian Fok Chun-wan, head of the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce, said Tung Chee Hwa's rich international experiences will also help promote the relations between Hong Kong, mainland and the international communities.

Chairman of the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce Anthony Nightingale expressed appreciation to Tung for his more than seven years of accomplishments on behalf of Hong Kong as Chief Executive, and congratulated Tung for being elected to his new post as a vice chairman of CPPCC.

"We know that he will continue to contribute to closer economic relations between Hong Kong and the mainland in this new position," said Nightingale.

Chairman of Hong Kong Retail Management Association Yu Pang-chun said Tung has made contributions to the cause of "one country, two systems", and successfully consolidated Hong Kong's financial system.

Hong Kong citizen Leung Ping Kwong said Tung has exerted his utmost for the maximum interests of the Hong Kong residents and dedicated himself to the overall interests of Hong Kong.

Editor: Olivia