President Xi wishes HK a 'prosperous, stable' 2020

President Xi Jinping has wished Hong Kong a "prosperous" and "stable" new year, in a televised New Year message.



The president said he 'sincerely' wishes the territory and its people well, and only indirectly referenced the ongoing protests - saying recent developments here have been occupying people's minds.



He also questioned how people could live safely and work happily without a stable and harmonious environment.



President Xi said the people of Hong Kong, and of the motherland, all wish that the SAR can be prosperous and stable.



He also reiterated the mainland's rigid opposition to independence for Taiwan, which holds elections for its president and legislature on January 11, with independence-leaning leader Tsai Ing-wen expected to win a second term.



In his speech, Xi dwelt heavily on economic topics, saying that China's gross domestic product in 2019 was on track to near 100 trillion yuan (US$14.37 trillion), while per capita GDP was likely to reach US$10,000.



President Xi also said he'd been pleased with Macau's prosperity and stability on his visit to the territory a few days ago to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the other SAR's handover.



He said Macau's success proves that "one country, two systems" works and it could win people's hearts. (AP)