Hong Kong leader John Lee promises revival on China's National Day

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee warned in a speech that COVID-19 “still overshadows” the city of more than seven million people.

Hong Kong’s leader promised on October 1 to revive its struggling economy following a campaign to crush a pro-democracy movement as China's ruling Communist Party marked its 73rd anniversary in power under strict anti-virus controls.

In Beijing, crowds of spectators watched a 96-member honour guard raise the Chinese flag on Tiananmen Square in the heart of the capital. There were no parades or other public events after authorities called on the public to avoid holiday travel.

National Day marks the anniversary of the October 1, 1949, founding of the People's Republic of China by then-leader Mao Zedong following a civil war. The mainland's former ruling Nationalist Party left for Taiwan, now a self-ruled democracy.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee warned in a speech that COVID-19 “still overshadows” the city of more than seven million people. He promised to revive the struggling economy and “safeguard people’s livelihood" as travel and other anti-virus curbs are eased.

Hong Kong: The city still packs a punch

Mr. Lee, who took office in July, is a former police chief who oversaw a crackdown that imprisoned pro-democracy activists, shut down a prominent newspaper and triggered an exodus of residents to Britain, the United States and Taiwan.

“Hong Kong now undergoes the critical transition from stability to prosperity,” said Mr. Lee, who wore a red mask the colour of the Chinese flag and was flanked by masked dignitaries at a downtown convention centre. “I have full confidence in the future of Hong Kong and so should you,” Mr. Lee said.