China gives Hong Kong leader 'unwavering support'

China's premier told beleaguered Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam on Monday that she had Beijing's "unwavering support" after a huge rally earlier this month and her government's thrashing at recent local elections.

The city has been upended by six months of massive pro-democracy protests that have seen violent battles between police and hardcore demonstrators, as well as regular transport disruption.

Protesters have called for the unpopular Lam to stand down as leader, but Li Keqiang said Beijing would give "unwavering support" to her government to maintain the "long-term prosperity and stability in Hong Kong".

"The central government fully recognises the efforts you and the SAR (special administrative region) government have paid," said Li, at a meeting with Lam in the Hong Kong Hall of the imposing Great Hall of People in Beijing.

He said Lam's government had "tried its best to maintain social stability" amid "an unprecedentedly severe and complicated situation."