Decision on HK universal suffrage 'unshakable'

Chinese top legislature's decision on the universal suffrage in the election of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Chief Executive is "unshakable," a spokeswoman said Wednesday.[Special coverage]

The National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee made the decision in August last year on issues relating to the selection of the HKSAR Chief Executive by universal suffrage and on the method for forming the HKSAR's Legislative Council in 2016.

"The decision is unshakable," said Fu Ying, spokeswoman for the Third Session of the 12th NPC, at a press conference. "We hope the universal suffrage can be held in 2017 smoothly."

The HKSAR has launched the second round of public consultation on constitutional reform. The results are expected to be published and subject to voting in the Legislative Council.

"The constitutional reform of the HKSAR should move forward rather than stand still," she told the conference.

Speaking of recent frictions between some Chinese mainland tourists and Hong Kong residents, Fu said the two sides, which she described as "brothers," should enhance mutual respect and "think more of each other's good."

Fu recalled Hong Kong residents' generous donation and enthusiasm of serving as volunteers in relief efforts after an 8.0-magnitude earthquake struck southwest China in May 2008.

"I was really moved. Blood is thicker than water," she said. "There should be more 'positive energy' and consultations between the two sides. It is not impossible to find solutions as long as we have consultations."

She also said the HKSAR government should guarantee legitimate rights, safety and dignity of all tourists, including those from the mainland.

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