The government on Tuesday appointed lawmaker Stephen Wong as head of the Chief Executive's Policy Unit.

John Lee said soon after becoming Hong Kong leader that he was forming the new body to help him better understand local, national and international developments.

In a statement, the CE said Wong has extensive experience in public policy research and had closely collaborated and communicated with mainland counterparts when he headed the Our Hong Kong Foundation think tank.

Lee said the councillor has held leadership positions in multinational financial institutions and has worked in different financial centres around the world.

"Wong is the appropriate choice to head the [unit]. I strongly believe he can lead the [unit], contribute strategic suggestions and assist me and the government in policymaking," Lee said.

The CE said he expects the unit to help formulate long-term policies, including suggesting important areas to integrate Hong Kong into the country's development.

The body should also look into international relations and situations, identify opportunities and risks, while also getting a feel for Hong Kong people's sentiments and discovering factors conducive to social harmony and stability, Lee said.

Wong will take up his new role on December 28.