This Aug 5, 2019, photo shows China's national flag and the flag of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region on the Golden Bauhinia Square in Hong Kong, south China. (WU XIAOCHU / XINHUA)

HONG KONG - The Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council on Friday expressed understanding and support for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government’s decision to delay the chief executive election, in light of the severe COVID-19 pandemic.

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In a statement, the office said the decision showcased the government’s resolve to take all necessary measures to contain the pandemic by putting the life and safety of residents first.

In the opinion of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office, the delay will also allow the chief executive election to be held in a fair, just, open and safe manner, without affecting the transition between the two administrations

It was an essential, legal and reasonable move, the office said.

The postponement will also be beneficial for the SAR government as it works to unite society to focus on fighting the pandemic, in its bid to protect residents’ life and safety, as well as the stability of the city, it continued.

The statement came after Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor announced the decision to delay the election, originally scheduled on March 27, until May 8.

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In the opinion of the office, the delay will also allow the chief executive election to be held in a fair, just, open and safe manner, without affecting the transition between the two administrations. It was in line with the city’s overall and long-term interests, it added.

The office stressed that the nation will always provide strong backing for the city as it works to stamp out the pandemic and confronts all other challenges and risks it is facing.

The central government and the authorities of the mainland are sparing no efforts to support Hong Kong’s pandemic battle, and with that, the office believes that Hong Kong will win the fight with concerted efforts of various sectors.