BEIJING -- President Hu Jintao met Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) Chief Executive Donald Tsang and Macao SAR Chief Executive Fernando Chui Sai On in Beijing Wednesday when the two SAR government leaders reported their work to central authorities.

Hu told Tsang Hong Kong's situation has improved in 2010 as its economy has enjoyed a robust recovery.

In 2010, the Hong Kong SAR Government prioritized improving the people's livelihood, Hu added.

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In August, China's top legislature approved Hong Kong's constitutional reform package that amended the methods to be used in 2012 to select the region's chief executive and form the Legislative Council.

Hu said the development of Hong Kong's political system took a step forward in line with the Basic Law of Hong Kong.

The central government applauds Tsang's and the SAR government's efforts, Hu said, expressing hope that in the new year Hong Kong authorities will cope with changes in the international economic situation.

Hu called on the Hong Kong SAR government to expand economic cooperation with the inland, especially the Pearl River Delta region, while making efforts to improve Hong Kong people's livelihood and the social stability.

When meeting with Chui, Hu spoke highly of the Macao SAR government's work in 2010.

Macao's economy recovered strongly this year, improving people's living standards and enhancing social stability, Hu said.

Hu said he hopes the Macao SAR government works hard to strengthen government construction and promotes the diversified development of its economy in an appropriate way.

Hu also said he hopes the SAR government improve people's livelihood in a way that lays a solid foundation for Macao's long-term development.

Vice President Xi Jinping and other senior officials attended the meetings.