In a Chinese-language commentary in Wen Wei Po newspaper yesterday, Lee said these qualities, along with team spirit and good risk management skills in the face of adversity, are what he has learned in his 35 years with the police.

"These four key qualities can be used in a wide range of matters of governance, which will step up efficiency, effectiveness and level of governance."

Hong Kong will be celebrating its 25th anniversary since the handover in less than a month, which is an important milestone for proving the successful implementation of one country, two systems, Lee said.

It also proves that one country, two systems is the best protection for Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability, he added.

Lee recalled how Hong Kong had seen a series of actions in the past that resisted the one country principle, including protests against national education, the Occupy Central movement, the Mong Kok riots and the anti-extradition bill movement.

The 2019 social unrest, together with provocations by external forces, were attempts to break the city apart, Lee wrote.

But he added that the implementation of the city's national security law and the improved electoral system had brought stability to the territory, which is the prerequisite for economic prosperity.

"The upcoming five years will be critical for Hong Kong to go from orderly to prosperous and it is an important time for Hong Kong citizens to strive for new heights together," he said.

Meanwhile, in an interview with state news agency China News Service, Lee said his efforts to form his cabinet are going smoothly and he hopes to form a capable governing team and give people confidence.

Hong Kong civil servants are "excellent" and capable of executing tasks handed down from the governing team, he said, although he admitted there is a need to improve the management system within the civil service.

"Therefore I proposed a government restructure, while also aiming at building team spirit and using a results-oriented approach to prevent civil servants from only managing their own category and neglecting the big picture," Lee said.

He also addressed the two biggest social issues in Hong Kong - border reopening with the mainland and the housing shortage - during the interview.

Lee said Hong Kong needs to create beneficial conditions and remove obstacles before borders can be reopened, including stepping up its ability to contain the pandemic and vaccination efforts.

"I will try my best, but I believe it will be a very quick process," Lee said.

On housing, Lee said the issue can no longer wait and he hopes to make progress in the next five years.