Premier Li Qiang urges HK and Macau to boost governance, leverage global connections

Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Thursday called on Hong Kong and Macau to strengthen governance and capitalize on their unique positions to serve as vital links between China and the international community. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the "one country, two systems" principle to achieve these goals.

Li's remarks came during the delivery of the government work report at the opening of the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress.

During his speech, Li reaffirmed Beijing's commitment to the "one country, two systems" framework, which grants Hong Kong and Macau a high degree of autonomy in their own affairs.

He also stressed the importance of ensuring that Hong Kong and Macau are governed by patriots and highlighted the need to improve governance to drive economic and social progress in both Special Administrative Regions (SARs).

Li urged the SARs to harness their distinctive advantages, with the support of the central government, to help connect China with global markets and foster long-term prosperity and stability.

Notable changes from previous reports

This year's report marked the first time Premier Li explicitly called for Hong Kong and Macau to enhance governance efficiency and leverage their global advantages and connections.

However, the previous focus on "deepening international exchanges and cooperation" was absent from the 2026 report.

Additionally, language in the report regarding the integration of Hong Kong and Macau into the national development framework was revised to "support Hong Kong and Macau in better integrating into and contributing to the overall national development."

Another notable change was the omission of the previously standard phrase "fully, accurately, and unswervingly" when describing the implementation of the "One Country, Two Systems" policy—a formulation that had appeared in reports since 2016.

The latest work report aligns with the 14th Five-Year Plan released last October, which emphasizes improving governance in Hong Kong and Macau, advancing their socio-economic development, and underscoring their pivotal role in connecting China with the world.