CE: HK 'out of the haze' but security risks lurk
Chief Executive John Lee on Saturday said his administration has brought Hong Kong "out of the haze" and now has the territory moving forward at full speed.  But speaking at a reception celebrating the 26th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland, Lee also called for vigilance against what he called "soft resistance".  In a speech at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the CE said the Hong Kong economy, which had been contracting, had now reversed course, and he believes GDP will grow by between 3.5 percent and 5.5 percent this year.  "In the first five months of this year, Hong Kong received more than 10 million visitors. The tourism industry and consumption spur our economic recovery," Lee said. "In addition, our policies on competing for talents and enterprises as proposed in my Policy Address are gradually delivering results." He also said allocating homes to people who are in need has always been his wish, and that the government is working hard to enhance the speed, quantity and efficiency of public housing supply. "I have full confidence in Hong Kong, yet we must stay alert," Lee said.  "While society is largely stable, we know that we are intentionally targeted and oppressed by some countries which have misjudged the peaceful development of our motherland. Destructive forces using ‘soft resistance’ means are still lurking in our city. We must stay vigilant and be proactive in safeguarding national security." For his second year in office, Lee said he would continue to lead visits by members of his administration to the mainland and overseas. The government will strive to "gain trust through action, narrow gaps with results, and build mutual trust through achievements," he added.