Leaders say nation's backing vital for HK to overcome challenges
HONG KONG – The nation's support is key to address current challenges and seek greater development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), political leaders said on Wednesday, a day before the 71st anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.
Speaking at a celebration marking the anniversary, Luo Huining, director of Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, said in the face of a complex international situation, Hong Kong needed the backing of the motherland more than ever.
He urged Hong Kong to continue to uphold the "one country, two systems" principle, integrate well and jointly explore future opportunities.
Speaking at the same event, Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor said that the SAR had restored stability and contained the latest spurt in coronavirus infections with the nation's support in formulating the National Security Law for Hong Kong and combating the pandemic.
She was confident that with support from the nation and with Hong Kong people's concerted efforts, the city could overcome the challenges and forge ahead smoothly.
Former Hong Kong chief executive Tung Chee-hwa said Hong Kong's economy was facing its biggest challenge, given the global COVID-19 pandemic and political turbulence.
With the strong backing of the central government, the city is, once again, gradually veering to the right course of development, said Tung, who is also the vice-chairman of Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee.
He is hopeful that Hong Kong society will work more closely to get the city off to a new start and to help strengthen its engagement in national strategies.
