Xia Baolong, director of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, also underscored the importance of attracting investment and exploration of emerging markets during Monday’s meeting with business leaders.
According to the office’s statement, he told entrepreneurs the key to weathering the storm and emerging victorious was to “stand firm” with the motherland on the right side of history.
“There are two completely different responses to hegemony: one is to be spineless and ‘kneel down’ to beg for mercy,” Xia was quoted as saying.
“The other is to be tough and to stand firm in defence, demonstrating the Chinese people’s indomitable spirit.
Laying out four expectations, the senior Beijing official urged business leaders to show a determined spirit and defend national interests.
“[Xia said] when we are facing sanctions and suppression, we should all unite and demonstrate our resilience and integrity,” according to the statement.
Xia also highlighted the need for the two SARs to build confidence in development while attracting and retain investment; to expand global connections by leverage their unique advantages; and to promote the “One Country, Two Systems” principle and share the good stories with the rest of the world.
In response, Chief Executive John Lee vowed to lead the administration, business leaders and entrepreneurs in Hong Kong in developing a stronger sense of responsibility.
Macau’s leader Sam Hou-fai, for his part, said his administration would lead the city in making more substantive contributions to the economy and maintain its long-term prosperity and stability.
