Chief Executive John Lee on Thursday stressed that a healthy and interactive executive-legislative relationship is a vital foundation for Hong Kong’s development.

At a seminar promoting public understanding of governance, Lee praised legislators for their “high quality and effectiveness” and for being rigorous during the legislative process, noting that 130 bills have been passed in this Legislative Council term, a 60 percent increase compared to the previous term.

He added that Legco’s finance committee approved more than 260 projects, with about HK$520 billion set aside for key areas such as land development, housing and transport.

The administration is taking the legislature’s opinions seriously, Lee said, adding that he has been working tirelessly to improve the executive-legislative relationship since taking office.

"I implemented the executive-led principle and proactively suggested holding monthly ante-chamber meetings. Each time, a secretary or deputy secretary will lead the director of the bureau or relevant officials to the Legislative Council to exchange views and enhance understanding with lawmakers," he said.

"I then proposed holding regular Chief Executive's Interactive Exchange Question and Answer Sessions, in the hope that executive authorities and the legislature could unite and build consensus in developing Hong Kong, based on the principles of executive leadership and patriots governing Hong Kong."

Lee said since 2022, the administration has proposed over 1,800 amendments to various bills in response to Legco input.

With nominations for December's Legislative Council elections to be accepted from next Friday, Lee encouraged patriotic individuals who are passionate about public service to run, saying he looks forward to working with them.