Zhang Xiaoming, director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR, on Tuesday joined members of the Legislative Council (LegCo) for lunch at the invitation of LegCo President Tsang Yok-sing. The unprecedented gathering was described by the press as an "ice-breaking" event and naturally drew a great deal of attention.

Zhang, however, did not see it as a big deal, saying there is no need to wrap it with unnecessary political metaphors and symbolism. The obviously normal luncheon opened a new chapter on healthy communication between the Liaison Office and various circles of Hong Kong society, including LegCo.

People saw on TV how Zhang carried himself throughout the function and many were impressed by his pleasant and friendly demeanor, humble but elegant projection as well as quick and sharp thinking. LegCo members of various parties in attendance played their part generally quite well, too.

Even the usually grumpy opposition lawmakers managed to exercise adequate restraint. In Zhang's own words, "the food was good, the conversations were pleasant and the mood relaxed."

It was a good start for healthy interaction among all parties concerned. As representative of the central government, the Liaison Office is tasked with facilitating communications between Beijing and the Hong Kong society, which involves "making more friends, friends from all walks of life, friends with insight and friends like soul mates."

As representatives of the voting public, LegCo members without question should communicate with the Liaison Office as often as they can instead of shutting the door on such exchanges with confrontational postures.

This is an excerpted translation of a Hong Kong Commercial Daily editorial published on July 17.

(HK Edition 07/18/2013 page1)