Chinese President Hu Jintao on Saturday evening hailed the achievements Hong Kong has made since its return to the motherland in 1997.

Hu expressed the praise while proposing a toast at the welcoming dinner hosted for him by the government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

The president said Hong Kong has prevailed over difficulties over the past decade and is now full of vigor and vitality.

He eulogized the Hong Kong people for having worked together with perseverance and carried forward the proud tradition of " loving the motherland and loving Hong Kong."

He also praised the Hong Kong people for having shown unprecedented great enthusiasm in running Hong Kong's affairs since the region returned to China.

"You have every reason to congratulate yourselves on what has been achieved in this new historical era," said the president.

Hu said the progress Hong Kong has made includes the maintenance of its status as a free port as well as an international financial, trade and shipping center, continued economic growth and social stability, higher living standards, greater public confidence and rising international standing.

He said the whole Chinese nation takes great pride in these achievements Hong Kong has made since its return.

"We take great pride in your talent, energy and dedication that have made these achievements possible," the president said.

Hu arrived here Friday to attend celebrations to mark the 10th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland and the swearing-in ceremony of the third term government of the HKSAR.

Source: Xinhua