Xia Baolong begins one-week Hong Kong visit

Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office director Xia Baolong begins his one-week visit in Hong Kong on Thursday, with sources suggesting that his visit is a move to gauge opinion on the enactment of Article 23 of the Basic Law and observe the economy and livelihoods.

Xia was welcomed by Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu and Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki upon his arrival at the airport at around 11am this morning.

The top Beijing official will hold meetings with government officials, members of the key decision-making body at the Executive Council, and local politicians.

Sources also said Xia will meet with legal professionals in the city and representatives from the business sector, as well as members of the public during visits to local communities.