The issues in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) should be resolved peacefully under the "One Country, Two Systems" framework, not through violent and illegal activities, said Mark Tucker, group chairman of HSBC Holdings Plc.

Tucker strongly condemned the recent violent protests in the city, expressing deep concern regarding the disruption they have caused.

"Clearly the events going on today, we are concerned about. We strongly condemn violence of any sort, any kind of disruption to communities where customers, staff and shareholders are based. We clearly have deep concern," he said.

He expressed belief that the rule of law is the foundation of Hong Kong's prosperity and stability, saying the issues in Hong Kong should be resolved peacefully under the "One Country, Two Systems" framework.

"We feel that Hong Kong thrives because of stability and resilience. Its rule of law is essential to its status as an international financial center. And we fully support the resolving of the issues peacefully, but under the framework of 'One Country, Two Systems.' And we really look forward to being part of a peaceful and prosperous Hong Kong and clearly supporting China's development," he noted.

Tucker said he still has confidence in the resilience of Hong Kong's economy, adding that HSBC will expand its investment in China and support more international companies to seek business opportunities in the country.

"We have complete confidence in the future of Hong Kong as a financial center. And we have complete confidence in the resilience of the financial markets. And Hong Kong is a world-leading financial center. It's robust, it's open in terms of its banking sector. It has deep public and private capital markets, and really world-class logistics and professional services."

"So again, we look forward to seeing continued growth in China's growth and development, and being part of a prosperous and peaceful Hong Kong. Looking overall, Hong Kong has been through a number of crises in its history, each time it has emerged stronger from these crises, and we are confident that this time again, Hong Kong will emerge strong," he added.

Hong Kong's economy has been severely affected by the ongoing protests and violence. Many companies have cancelled their business events and investments, with some even withdrawing their investments.

Fitch Ratings downgraded Hong Kong's long-term foreign currency issuer default rating to "AA" from "AA+" after months of unrest and protests in the region.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific airline and its largest shareholder Swire Pacific said last month they condemn all violent acts that undermine the "One Country, Two Systems" principle and strongly support the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government.

Standard Chartered and Bank of East Asia both urged the HKSAR government to restore social order and "guard the status of Hong Kong as an international financial center."