John Lee, named Hong Kong’s next chief executive in a rubber-stamp election after Beijing asserted greater control over the financial hub, vowed to strengthen national security and accelerate the city’s integration with mainland China.
Speaking shortly after his victory was announced on Sunday, the former police official and security minister outlined his service to China and Hong Kong while saying his new job calls for accountability to both Beijing and the city’s residents. His administration will continue to uphold the rule of law, which is a “core pillar of sound governance,” he told reporters.
“Safeguarding our country’s sovereignty, national security and development interests, protecting Hong Kong from internal and external threats and ensuring its stability, will continue to be of paramount importance,” he told reporters at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the election venue.
