Put national interests first, Xi Jinping tells Hong Kong’s new ruling team

President urges administration under Carrie Lam to seize the opportunities before them and says he expects a ‘brilliant report card’

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President Xi Jinping (right) swears in Hong Kong's new cabinet members. Photo: Sam Tsang

Published: 9:30pm, 1 Jul 2017Updated: 11:59pm, 1 Jul 2017

President Xi Jinping on Saturday urged Hong Kong’s new administrators to seize the opportunities before them or risk missing out on “an entire era” of economic development and global changes, as he delivered Beijing’s clearest message yet on their work ahead in the coming five years.

He told them to come up with “a brilliant report card”, considering national interest, standing firm in the face of pressure and maintaining unity in fulfilling their duties.

The president’s detailed speech contrasted with that of his predecessors, who focused on formalities such as reiterating the “one country, two systems” principle and Beijing’s support for their work.

Xi was speaking shortly after swearing in the new administration led by Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, who vowed to take firm action against any move to undermine the country’s security and sovereignty.

If we do not adapt to changes and seek changes, we could ... miss opportunities for development, or even miss an entire era

President Xi Jinping

Addressing 60 Hong Kong officials, executive councillors and the heads of the city’s legislature and judiciary after the swearing-in, Xi said: “You must produce a brilliant report card with no regret for the country, Hong Kong and for yourselves.”