Xia Baolong, director of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, wrapped up his five-day inspection tour of Hong Kong on Sunday after meeting with district council leaders and visiting a community living room in one of the city’s neighborhoods.

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said Xia encouraged the SAR government to maintain its efforts in balancing national security with economic development amid geopolitical tensions.

Lee, quoting Xia, said Hong Kong has entered a new development phase five years after implementing the Beijing-imposed National Security Law, calling it a critical period for progress.

Xia also urged the city to capitalize on its current stability to boost the economy, he added.

Lee said Xia showed strong concern for Hong Kong's development and pledged to accelerate projects like the Northern Metropolis by efforts such as streamlining regulations.

John Lee speaks to reporters as Xia wraps up HK inspection tour

On his final day, Xia had a three-hour discussion with chairmen and members from the city’s 18 district councils at the Central Government Offices.

Lee and Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Alice Mak Mei-kuen also attended the meeting.

Afterward, Xia, accompanied by Lee and Mak, visited the To Kwa Wan Community Living Room, a neighborhood assistance center operated by the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals.

Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han greeted the delegation upon arrival.

Xia spent about half an hour touring the facility before departing to Beijing’s liaison office in Hong Kong, where he reportedly received briefings on the office’s work.

Xia left Hong Kong through the Shenzhen Bay port at around 8pm.

During his five-day visit, Xia met with government officials and various sectors to gain insights into the city's latest developments.

For the first time, he met with presidents and governing council chairmen of the city’s top universities.

Xia also visited Kai Tak Sports Park, Ocean Park and Lamma Island and inspected the work of the city’s caring team.

He attended a high-profile forum on Saturday (Jun 21) to mark the fifth anniversary of the implementation of Hong Kong National Security Law, where he characterized the law as the city’s “guardian angel”.

(Staff reporter)

John Lee sees Xia Baolong off as he wraps up HK visit