Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam announced a government reshuffle, speaking at a news conference in the city on Wednesday. The change in the cabinet is the biggest since the beginning of demonstrations last year.

“With this reshuffle, we are looking forward, and hoping that with this new government team, we will be able to lead Hong Kong out of this difficult economic situation," said Lam.

She replaced five ministers in the government including the official responsible for ties with mainland China.

"We're facing serious challenges, political, economic, livelihood issues and there are only just over two years remaining in this term…I think it's because we are facing this major challenge that we have these people committed to Hong Kong, with the experience and the aspiration, who would like to be able to help," added Lam.

The decision was announced as the city has been struggling to deal with the aftermath of anti-government protests and the coronavirus pandemic.