Xia Baolong promises more ‘preferential policies’ for Hong Kong, as John Lee says Cathay Pacific boosting capacity for expanded travel scheme

City leader Lee says Beijing’s point man on Hong Kong affairs also pledged support for protection of investments and freedoms enshrined in local laws

‘Director Xia reiterated that the central government will, as always, fully support Hong Kong in developing its economy and improving people’s livelihood,’ Lee adds

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Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office director Xia Baolong (centre) wrapped up his week-long fact-finding mission on Wednesday. Photo: Xiaomei Chen

Published: 6:33pm, 28 Feb 2024Updated: 6:45pm, 28 Feb 2024

The top Beijing official overseeing Hong Kong affairs has promised more preferential measures for the city, the chief executive has said, adding that local flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways will boost capacity to prepare for the expansion of a national travel scheme.

Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office director Xia Baolong also pledged Beijing’s support for the protection of local investment and legally enshrined freedoms, city leader John Lee Ka-chiu told reporters after the agency head wrapped up his fact-finding mission on Wednesday.

“Director Xia reiterated that the central government will, as always, fully support Hong Kong in developing its economy and improving people’s livelihood,” he said.

“In fact, the day after director Xia arrived in Hong Kong, the central authorities announced the addition of Xian and Qingdao to the solo traveller scheme. Director Xia also indicated that more preferential policies for Hong Kong will come one after another.”

City leader John Lee says Cathay will increase flights to Xian and has opted for larger aircraft for routes to Qingdao in anticipation of a rise in travel demand. Photo: Xiaomei Chen

Beijing earlier announced it would permit Xian and Qingdao residents from March 6 to travel to Hong Kong on solo trips, rather than just on group tours, under the Individual Visit Scheme.