China’s Xi Jinping praises Hong Kong leader John Lee for safeguarding national security, steering district councils onto right track
- President Xi Jinping also urges John Lee’s administration to unite society and boost the city’s development by seizing ‘historic opportunities’
- In a first, the closed-door meeting was also attended by Premier Li Qiang, unlike during previous annual duty visits by a Hong Kong leader
Chinese President Xi Jinping has praised Hong Kong’s leader for firmly safeguarding national security and steering the district council system back onto the right track, as he expressed Beijing’s “full confidence” in the city’s future.
State news agency Xinhua reported that Xi asked Hong Kong to specifically consolidate its roles as international financial, maritime and trade centres, reaffirming calls he first made during the city’s 25th anniversary of its return to Chinese rule in 2022.
Monday’s high-level closed-door meeting was also attended by Premier Li Qiang, unlike during previous annual duty visits where the city leader briefed the president and the premier separately.
Observers said the new arrangement reflected Xi’s elevated role and a clearer, more direct reporting line for the city after Beijing’s top office overseeing Hong Kong affairs was revamped to report straight to the Communist Party leadership instead of the State Council.
At the central government’s headquarters in Zhongnanhai, Xi gave “full recognition” to Lee and the Hong Kong administration, citing their efforts in conducting the district council election, strengthening the city’s development momentum and working hard to address people’s pressing concerns.
