Hong Kong on ‘right track’ under leader John Lee, Chinese president says, while premier calls for greater efforts to prepare for border reopening
- Xi Jinping praises John Lee’s efforts to revive economy and calls on city to use unique advantages in pursuit of ‘extensive international cooperation’
- Premier Li Keqiang urges city’s government departments to work closely together on further reopening border with mainland
Hong Kong is headed on the “right track” under John Lee Ka-chiu’s leadership, Chinese President Xi Jinping has said, pointing to the new administration’s efforts to revive the economy, while Premier Li Keqiang called on the city’s authorities to coordinate efforts to gradually ease Covid-19 travel restrictions.
Xi gave his approval of Lee’s first six months at the helm of the city on Friday during the chief executive’s maiden duty visit to Beijing, and reaffirmed the central government’s full support for Hong Kong, saying residents should look forward to the bright future ahead. The president also urged the city to use its unique advantages and pursue “extensive international cooperation” even as it integrated into the overall economic development of the country.
“Since you took office, you have led the new term of government in … being pragmatic in achieving results. [The government was] resolute in safeguarding national security, bold in reviving the vitality of the economy, and active in responding to the people’s concerns,” Xi said.
“Hong Kong has demonstrated a new atmosphere under patriots administering Hong Kong and is moving on the right track under ‘one country, two systems’. The central government fully acknowledges your work and the Hong Kong government’s work.”
He added: “[Beijing will support Hong Kong in] engaging in a wide range of international cooperation, and better integrate into the nation’s development plans.
