Lam arrived in Beijing earlier in the day for her annual duty visit, during which she reports on the situation in Hong Kong to the Chinese authorities. The chief executive is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
"The central government fully acknowledges the efforts made by you [Lam] and the city’s government. Hong Kong has yet to come out from the difficulties. The city’s government must continue to make efforts in stopping violence and ending the chaos in accordance with the law, and restore order," Li was quoted as saying by the South China Morning Post newspaper.
According to the Chinese premier, it is crucial to analyze such long-lasting conflicts and issues regarding the socio-economic development of the city, as well as ensure its peace and stability.
Li emphasised the difficulties in the economic sector, noting that the city was facing a very serious and difficult situation.
"You have been leading the government in doing the utmost to safeguard social stability, and rolled out a series of measures to help businesses and stabilise employment. It can be said that you rose to the challenges," the Chinese official said.
Lam, in turn, admitted that Hong Kong, indeed, has been faced with an extremely difficult situation in the political, economic and social spheres over the year.
Beijing views the situation in Hong Kong as the result of foreign interference in China's domestic affairs and expresses full support for the local authorities' actions.