HONG KONG - Hong Kong Chief Executive CY Leung said on Wednesday in his first policy address that promoting economic development is the primary goal of the city's government as sustained economic growth is a prerequisite for Hong Kong to tackle housing, poverty, aging population and environmental problems.

"During my term, I am fully committed to the principle of keeping expenditure within the limits of revenues, and to maintaining a business-friendly environment with a simple and low tax regime," Leung, who took office in July, 2012, told the city's lawmakers.

The policy address, broadcast live to the city's 7.1 million population, presents the annual work plan of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government. It also sets out long- term blueprint and objectives for Hong Kong.

Leung said there are currently two major trends in economic development. First, the global economic gravity is shifting to the East. Second, the implementation of the National 12th Five-Year Program (2011-2015) will usher in a new wave of economic development for Chinese mainland.

Regarding the role of the government, he said the city government must be "appropriately proactive" to promote economic development. In cases of market failure, the city government must take appropriate action to address the problem. In the past six months, the city government has taken such actions in a proactive manner, he said.

The National 12th Five-Year Program explicitly supports Hong Kong in reinforcing and enhancing its status as an international financial, trading and shipping centers.