Chinese Premier Li Keqiang voiced strong support for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) government in ending violence and restoring order, the first time a Chinese leader responded to violence in Hong Kong.

"The Chinese government will fully safeguard the principle of 'One Country, Two Systems' and 'Hong Kong people governing Hong Kong.' We strongly support this and the SAR government in their efforts to end violence and chaos in accordance with the law," Li said.

"To return to order, and safeguard Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability, the world needs to believe that the Chinese people have the ability and wisdom to handle their own matters well," Li added. 

Li made the remarks when holding a news conference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel who was on an official visit to China on Thursday and Friday. Merkel expressed concerns over the violence in Hong Kong, calling for peaceful measures in handling Hong Kong affairs, and Li's comments were made as responses.