Hong Kong government garners praises from Chinese President Xi Jinping last Friday for its efforts in promoting political reforms, according to the law, thus maintaining stability in the city. The public remarks were made during a meeting with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Chief Executive Leung Chung-ying.
The Chinese president hailed the Hong Kong government's work in advancing political reform, developing economy, improving people's livelihoods and maintaining the rule of law as well as stability in the city.
The central government is also satisfied with how the Hong Kong government resolved the "Occupy Central Movement," this according to professor of Hong Kong and Macao studies at Peking University, Qiang Shigong. This observation was further solidified by Chinese Premiere Li Keqiang, who praised the Hong Kong government for being united in the face of challenges.
The three-month-long protest, which was condemned by officials and observers, was dubbed as the "Occupy Central Movement" and began in late September and ended with police clearing the final Occupy site on Sept. 15. The Hong Kong government conducted a second round of political consultation regarding the 2017 election for the city's top leader wherein residents are entitled their full suffrage.
Chinese President Xi has vowed the central government's firm support for Hong Kong's political reform, within the framework of the Basic Law, and in accordance with decisions made by the Standing Committee of National People's Congress.
Meanwhile, Chinese Premier Li encouraged Hong Kong residents to maintain the hard-earned achievements of the city. Hong Kong is a recognized international financial hub and trade and navigation center.
Though the Occupy Central Movement may have affected the image of Hong Kong, Peking University professor Qiang said that the central government is not going to give up on Hong Kong or even change its support to the city.