Amid growing signs of desperation about the future, Mr Zhu's vote of confidence in the strengths and competitiveness of Hong Kong in the long-run may soothe economic pain. But one question is: for how long?
Coincidence it may be, but Mr Zhu's reassurances on Hong Kong have addressed concerns about the state of the territory as the new leadership team enters its fifth month in office.
Fears about the political and economic development of the SAR have been further complicated by the leadership changes in Beijing following the end of the Communist Party's 16th plenum.
Two key questions arise. First, whether the policy of the central government towards Hong Kong will change. Secondly, whether new leaders in charge of Hong Kong affairs will change direction on policy implementation, and if so, what this will mean for the leadership of Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa.
Without directly referring to the leadership change, Mr Zhu sought to reaffirm the 'irreplaceable and unique role' of Hong Kong in the country's modernisation drive.
Beijing would continue to give full support to Hong Kong as it had always in the past, said the premier, who is due to step down at the next National People's Congress in the spring.
Mr Zhu used his charisma and persuasiveness to convince his audience that policy will remain unchanged.