Zhang Dejiang (2nd R, front), chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress, meets with a visiting Hong Kong delegation, Silent Majority for Hong Kong, in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 29, 2016. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)

BEIJING -- Top legislator Zhang Dejiang met with a Hong Kong delegation Tuesday and expressed his hope that Hong Kong compatriots would unequivocally object to the notion of "Hong Kong independence" and safeguard the region's social and political stability.

Zhang, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, commended the work of the visiting group, Silent Majority for Hong Kong, an organization launched in 2013.

Zhang encouraged the organization to stay true to its purpose, which is to make the voices of common Hong Kong citizens heard, promote patriotism and love for Hong Kong, and boost "positive energy" in society.

The central government unswervingly upholds national sovereignty, security, development interests, and Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability, Zhang said.

Zhang expects Hong Kong compatriots to seize the opportunity of the country's development and pool their efforts in promoting development and harmony so that the "one country, two systems" principle forges ahead.