Chief Executive John Lee said on Tuesday that torch relays will take place at the beginning of next month, ahead of the National Games to be co-hosted by Hong Kong, Macau and Guangdong.

He said officials are planning a route in Hong Kong which will showcase the city's unique cultural and sporting features.

Lee said the list of torchbearers will be announced soon, and they include people from the sports community.

The chief executive said he will officiate at a ceremony on Wednesday to present the SAR flag to more than 600 Hong Kong athletes taking part in the games, the largest delegation to date.

He added that the government is ready to co-host the national mega event.

"We have formulated detailed security plans for the different venues hosting the events, including crowd and traffic control, as well as contingency plans," Lee said ahead of an Executive Council meeting.

"We have also assessed the venues and hotels, and developed transport and logistics plans."

Lee said more than 4,000 athletes and journalists are expected to come to Hong Kong for the tournament in November and the National Special Olympic Games in December.

The chief executive called on the public to support the tournaments and participate proactively, to demonstrate the city's hospitality and grandeur as a mega event destination.