Xi Jinping hails China’s rule over Hong Kong on 25th anniversary of handover

Chinese president says one country, two systems' will endure and democracy flourishes after unprecedented unpicking of freedoms

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Xi Jinping has hailed China's rule over Hong Kong as he led 25th anniversary celebrations of the city's handover from Britain, insisting democracy was flourishing despite a political crackdown that has silenced dissent.

After swearing in a new hardline chief executive, John Lee, in a solemn ceremony on Friday morning, the Chinese president laid out his vision for the city and its administrators.