Chief Executive John Lee on Friday called on different sectors of society to be open-minded when it comes to change as Hong Kong goes through economic transition.

Speaking at a function with Heung Yee Kuk rural leaders to mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, Lee said while his government has been working hard to be creative and introduce reforms, people also need to do the same and find new areas of development.

He also said he expects the rural body to help promote patriotism and a caring society, and support the development of the Northern Metropolis.

The CE also said the director of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, Xia Baolong, spoke of his hopes for Hong Kong when they met in the capital last week.

"[Xia] affirmed the work and reform measures of the SAR government, and expressed the hope that all sectors of Hong Kong society will turn their patriotism and love for Hong Kong into concrete actions," he said.

In response, the kuk's chairman, Kenneth Lau, said it will surely turn their "passionate patriotism" into concrete actions.

Lau said the rural body will continue to act as a bridge between the government and the people.

He also said the kuk fully supports the development of the Northern Metropolis.