Senior Chinese leader stresses development, stability in Tibet

　　LHASA, Sept. 1 (Xinhua) -- A senior Chinese official on Tuesday called on people of all ethnic groups in Tibet to better contribute to economic development and social stability.

　　Wang Gang, vice chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), was addressing a gathering marking the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Tibet Autonomous Regional Committee of the CPPCC.

　　Wang called on people of different ethnic groups to unite and work hard in order to contribute wisely and strongly to a harmonious, prosperous and united Tibet.

　　Economic development was the region's top priority, Wang said

　　He said people of all ethnic groups should object to separatism, protect the region's stability and strengthen ethnic unity, and to maintain social security and harmony.

　　This year marks the 50th anniversary of democratic reform in Tibet.