Public offices are now filled only by “patriots”. Many opposition groups and some media outlets have ceased operation. The mass protests of the past on July 1 are now a distant memory.

The seismic shifts have fuelled worries that civil rights and freedoms are eroding. But the changes, officials say, are necessary steps to restore order and prosperity.

The president’s trip is symbolic in itself. This was his first tour outside the mainland since the pandemic struck more than two years ago. It also came as the special administrative region struggles to put behind it the most turbulent times since its return to Chinese rule 25 years ago.

Inevitably, tight security and a lingering outbreak of Covid-19 prevented Xi from seeing more of Hong Kong and meeting the people. But his 22-minute keynote speech, the most comprehensive and candid yet on the city’s affairs, provides food for thought, both here and overseas.

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Roadblocks, heightened security as Chinese president visits Hong Kong for 25th handover anniversary

Roadblocks, heightened security as Chinese president visits Hong Kong for 25th handover anniversary

‘One country, two systems’ paramount

The city has been specifically reminded to implement the one country, two systems principle in an accurate and comprehensive manner, integrate Beijing’s comprehensive jurisdiction with the city’s high degree of autonomy and keep political power in the hands of patriots. The Communist Party-led socialist system on the mainland should be respected, Xi said.

But there was also welcome recognition of the city’s uniqueness and contribution to national development. The central government fully supported maintaining Hong Kong’s unique status, free and open business environment and the common law system, Xi said.

This is believed to be the first time a state leader has highlighted the significance of the legal system. The affirmation that the judiciary is to exercise its powers independently and that one country, two systems will be adhered to “over the long run” is especially important.

Hopefully, it will help dispel doomsday fears and renew confidence in the city’s future.

Whether the city inherited by Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu is now in good shape is open to interpretation. Even though stability has gradually returned, a host of livelihood problems prevails.

The journey to long-term prosperity hinges on how well the problems are tackled in the coming years. Even though the city can always count on Beijing in times of adversity, the local government bears the primary responsibility for administration.

New administration’s long to-do list

The tasks ahead are daunting. In addition to taking steps to address livelihood issues, the new team, Xi said, should strive to improve governance and strike a better balance between a well-functioning government and an efficient market.

The administration should “deliver concrete outcomes and live up to the people’s expectations”, a clear reference to Lee’s pledge to be a “result-oriented” leader. This is not the first time the government has been expressly told to enhance the quality of governance and people’s well-being, in particular the city’s youth.

“When there is a future for the young people, there is a future for Hong Kong,” Xi said. He struck a chord when he succinctly summed up the humble yet fundamental desires of the public – a better life, a bigger flat, more business and job opportunities, and better education and elderly care.

The strong wording speaks volumes of Beijing’s concerns for the city and the inadequacies in the work of previous administrations. We trust Lee and his expanded ministerial team are aware of the challenges ahead.

The growing expectation from Beijing and the local public to resolve an array of problems means there will be no honeymoon period for them. From fighting the pandemic and rebooting the economy to enhancing housing supply and elderly care, there is a long to-do list.

As Lee rightly pointed out, the next five years will be vital for Hong Kong’s development. He must bear in mind that his election manifesto was short on specific targets. He must work hard to engage the public and map out more detailed solutions.

The legislature is also required to cooperate, without compromising its duty to ensure proper checks and balances.

Yesterday’s stormy weather is perhaps a reminder of the tough times ahead. It is to be hoped that the new leadership can truly take the city forward along the clear lines drawn by Xi.

Our success lies in staying committed to one country while leveraging the benefits of two systems. At no time should we focus only on one aspect to the neglect of the other. With firm support from Beijing and faith in the governance formula, a greater Hong Kong story will unfold.