BEIJING — The Chinese mainland will further cooperate with Hong Kong police to maintain prosperity and stability, State Councilor and Public Security Minister Guo Shengkun said on March 6.

Guo made the remarks while meeting with Leung Chun-ying, chief of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

Guo lauded the achievements made in the region and said the mainland will adhere to the “one country, two systems” principle and the Basic Law to help Hong Kong police perform their duties in accordance with the law.

Leung said Hong Kong police will continue to promote cooperation with the mainland public security organs to maintain stability.

At a press conference, Leung said both the HKSAR and the mainland are sincere and determined to carry out universal suffrage in the election of the HKSAR Chief Executive in 2017.

The election should be carried out in accordance with the Hong Kong Basic Law and decisions made by the National People’s Congress Standing Committee, Leung said.

“The HKSAR government hopes to win more support from the Hong Kong legislative council to realize constitutional reform so that five million eligible electors in Hong Kong can elect the chief executive through ‘one person, one vote’ in 2017, “ Leung said.

Since last November, the Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect program has enjoyed smooth operation and the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect program will undergo trial.

“Both programs will boost employment and economic development in Hong Kong,” Leung said.