Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu on Tuesday expressed his appreciation for central government official Xia Baolong’s guidance in steering the special administrative region’s development, pledging to act proactively to unite all sectors to build a better Hong Kong.

Xia, director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, met with HKSAR government officials and business leaders in Shenzhen last week, expressing his expectations for Hong Kong’s future development.

Lee said Xia remains confident about the business community’s pivotal role in driving development, the government’s capabilities in executing policies, and the unity of various sectors in the SAR.

READ MORE: Xia calls on Hong Kong to confront new challenges

Xia pointed out it’s necessary for Hong Kong to beef up its traditional strengths, explore new industries and models, and deeply integrate into national development to boost growth.

The central government official also expressed support for the HKSAR government in implementing long-term plans and exploring new development possibilities, while urging the city’s businesses to adhere to their social responsibilities and contribute to improving people’s well-being.

Xia encouraged Hong Kong to better tell its good stories to the overseas community and maintain its international image.

Lee agreed with Xia that the business sector, especially entrepreneurs, has sufficient capability, experience and networks to be the main driving force for economic development.

The chief executive urged other sectors in society to actively collaborate with the business sector and contribute to Hong Kong's development with concrete action.

READ MORE: Xia’s call for new mindsets echoes in HK community

Lee noted that his latest Policy Address has outlined the development blueprint and directions for the city. “The government has set the stage and drafted the script. The success of the performance depends on all sectors of society, with the business community and entrepreneurs playing leading roles.”

He reiterated that businesspeople are not bystanders and commentators, and they should play their roles through proactive action.

Lee said he’ll leave for Peru's capital, Lima, tonight to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders’ summit, as well as this year’s Applied Power Electronics Conference, where he plans to meet with local business leaders and comprehensively promote Hong Kong’s advantages.

Contact the writer at stephyzhang@chinadailyhk.com