Chief Executive John Lee said the government will "definitely" enact Article 23 legislation this year or by next year at the latest, saying there's a need to guard against national security risks.

In an interview with the Hong Kong China News Agency that was published on Thursday, Lee said the Security Bureau and the Department of Justice are now working to make sure that the piece of national security legislation will be comprehensive and successful.

The CE also said his government will continue to strengthen Hong Kong's unique advantage as an international city and a gateway to the mainland.

“We are the best place to connect the mainland with the rest of the world. Apart from being a super connector, we’re also adding value. We aren’t just an operator”, he said.

The Hong Kong leader also said his administration will bolster efforts to attract talent and boost development.

Lee stressed Hong Kong is an extremely attractive city because people can “work hard, play hard” here.

“You can get whatever you want here, and that’s why people say Hong Kong is a city that never stops. You can eat anything you wish any time, and there’s no limit to what you can do. You can hike, do exercise, go shopping, and enjoy our food paradise”, he said.

“There's no other place in the world like Hong Kong”.