'HK Entering A New Stage Of Democratic Development'

Beijing’s liaison office in Hong Kong on Tuesday said changes made to the Basic Law by the National People’s Congress Standing Committee have created more space for residents to take part in the territory's politics.

The number of seats to be chosen by ordinary voters in the geographical constituencies is being cut from 35 to 20, and almost half of future members of the legislature will be handpicked by the election committee that selects the chief executive.

But in a statement, the liaison office said the electoral system will now become more democratic and balanced, adding that this is beneficial to the overall and long-term interests of Hong Kong.

“The approval marks the structural protection which can ensure patriots will administer Hong Kong, and shows that a democratic system that suits Hong Kong has entered a new phase of development,” the statement said.

The office said it believes Hong Kong will be able to tackle deep-rooted economic and livelihood problems once it has got rid of political disputes.

The Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, meanwhile, said the SAR’s administration must be "grasped tightly by patriots", so it can be completely eradicated of foreign interference.

It called on Hong Kong people to support the government and Legco in completing the relevant legislative work as soon as possible, so that future elections can be held as scheduled.