Reporters: But could you say why you support Tung Chee-hwa? - Jiang Zemin

Jiang: What I said does not mean I imperially appointed him to serve the next term. You asked me whether I support him or not, I support him. I can tell you explicitly.

Jiang: I just... I just wanted to... that is every time I meet you all, I say, in Chinese we have saying, "make a big fortune quietly." If I had said nothing, that would have been the best. But I thought I've seen all of you so enthusiastic. If I said nothing, that wouldn't be good. So, a moment ago you just insisted... In spreading the news, if your reports are inaccurate, you have to take the responsibility. I did not say I am imperially appointing [Tung]. No such meaning. But you insisted on asking me whether I supported Mr. Tung or not. He is still the current Chief Executive. How could we not support the Chief Executive? Isn't it?

Jiang: Eh! To serve another term, you must follow the law of Hong Kong, isn't it? You should follow Hong Kong's... Of course, our right to make the decision is also very important. Hong Kong SAR... Special Administrative Region belongs to the Central Government of China... People's Republic [People's Republic of China]. When it gets to the right time, we'll let you know our decision.