Celebrations to mark the 25th anniversary of HK's return

Hong Kong will celebrate the 25th anniversary of its return to the motherland next year, with over 100 activities planned to mark the special moment, Chief Secretary for Administration John Lee Ka-chiu announced on Wednesday.

The year of 2022 is of great importance and a memorable occasion to the people of Hong Kong, the city and the country, Lee said at the launch ceremony of the celebration.

The celebration, themed "A New Era - Stability, Prosperity, Opportunity", ranges from cultural activities to high-end forums.

Lee added that the government will mobilize all the offices in the Chinese mainland and overseas to organize activities to celebrate the 25th anniversary, including an exhibition themed on the "one country, two systems" principle in Beijing, as well as Hong Kong Week and Hong Kong Month that will be held in Thailand and Europe respectively.

Lee said that these events aim at showcasing the successful implementation of the "one country, two systems" principle, acknowledging past achievements, and sending to the world a message of confidence and expectations for a better future for Hong Kong.

Chaired by Lee, an inter-departmental steering committee on the 25th anniversary was also set up to prepare the celebration.