In Hong Kong, Xi says 'one country, two systems' is here to stay

There is no reason to change Hong Kong's "one country, two systems" formula of governance, Chinese President Xi Jinping said on a rare visit to the global financial hub after swearing in the city's new leader, John Lee, on Friday.

Xi said the "one country, two systems" formula was successful under China's "comprehensive jurisdiction."

"For this kind of good system, there is no reason at all to change it. It must be maintained over the long term," Xi said. "After experiencing wind and rain, everyone can painfully feel that Hong Kong cannot be chaotic, and must not become chaotic again ... Hong Kong’s development cannot be delayed again, and any interference must be eliminated."

Xi added China would support Hong Kong's role as an international finance and trade hub.

Xi's visit to Hong Kong is his first since 2017, when he swore in outgoing leader Carrie Lam and stayed in the city for the duration of his trip. His overnight whereabouts this time, and the reasons why he may have chosen Shenzhen, have not been officially confirmed.