New Law Will Strengthen One Country, Two Systems: CE

Chief Executive Carrie Lam said on Monday that Hong Kong's impending national security legislation will be very effective in restoring business confidence and helping the local economy bounce back.

Speaking on an online forum organised by mainland media group Caixin, Lam said Hong Kong's international reputation and competitiveness have deteriorated substantially due to the social unrest and violence over the past year.

She said the upcoming national security law will restore stability in the city and strengthen One Country, Two Systems.

Lam added that once violence and "activities endangering national security" are reined in, confidence will return and Hong Kong's business environment will flourish once again.

Financial Secretary Paul Chan, meanwhile, told the same forum that the SAR government has done a lot to boost the local economy.

He cited the HK$10,000 cash handout and the bailout of Cathay Pacific as examples, saying the administration has taken decisive action to tackle the "unprecedented economic challenges".

Chan added that as the covid-19 pandemic continues to ease, the government will try to re-establish exchanges with neighbouring places to spur local and regional growth.