By Chris Hogg BBC, Hong Kong

Relations between the pro-democracy politicians and Beijing worsened after China ruled out the introduction of universal suffrage to select the territory's next leader in three years' time.

But in recent days the democrats have toned down their attacks and Friday's meetings were seen as the first step towards building a more constructive relationship.

It is nearly a year since Hong Kong was rocked by huge protests

Such has been the animosity between the two sides that the very fact that Hong Kong's leader was sitting round a table with the pro-democracy campaigners made headline news here.

It follows a change of tactics by the Democratic Party and its allies after polls showed that their belligerent stance towards the Hong Kong government and the Chinese leadership in Beijing was losing them support among the voters.

Their leaders have softened their tone, apparently catching Mr Tung off guard.

At the hastily arranged meetings on Friday it appears little of substance was decided but it was an important first step towards rebuilding trust.

Mr Tung promised to help those lawmakers who for years have been denied visas to visit the mainland to regain their permits.

He reiterated that universal suffrage was the ultimate goal for Hong Kong. The Democrats say they took the opportunity to restate their demand that it should be introduced in time for the election of his successor in 2007.