The amendments to the electoral system of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) are aimed at plugging loopholes, improving and promoting the city's democratic system, said Deng Zhonghua, deputy director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council.

Deng made the remarks in an interview with the media, explaining the purposes of and concerns surrounding the amendments. The Standing Committee of the 13th National People's Congress, China's top legislature, on Tuesday passed amendments to Annex I and Annex II to the Basic Law of the HKSAR. 

The two annexes concern the method for the selection of the HKSAR Chief Executive and the method for the formation of the HKSAR Legislative Council and its voting procedures respectively.

The amendments are necessary to address the loopholes and deficiencies in the current Hong Kong electoral system, according to Deng. The reform is done in line with the principles of safeguarding China's national sovereignty, security and development interests, and ensuring that "patriots administer Hong Kong," he noted.

The improvements are also aimed to enhance the representation of the Election Committee and Legislative Council, to expand political participation, and to strengthen the coordination between the executive and legislative branches, he added. 

Deng noted that the improvements can help the HKSAR government and its people focus on economic development and boost people's livelihood, and will be conducive to ensuring the prosperity and stability of the HKSAR.