Writing in a Beijing-backed Ta Kung Pao on Monday, the city leader said the government is stepping in a series of preparations for "gradual, orderly and comprehensive border-reopening" between Hong Kong and the mainland.

He noted Hong Kong had shaken off the impacts of the epidemic and would enforce its connections with the world in areas of trade, investment, science, technology, and culture.

"Hong Kong will also further communicate with the mainland, as well as focus on attracting and nurturing talent," Lee said, adding that 2023 will be a promising year of prosperity.

Pro-Beijing heavyweight Tam Yiu-chung predicted that a fully recovered border reopening between Hong Kong and China, without Covid curbs, is expected by mid-2023. 

"I am glad that the current progress is exceeding expectations," he said.