e-Hong Kong 87

The Inaugural Ceremony of the Fifth Term Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) was held on July 1 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center. President Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Liyuan attended the ceremony. It was also attended by about 2,000 other guests, including representatives from the Central Government, members of the Executive and Legislative Councils, Hong Kong deputies to the National People’s Congress and members of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, political and economic figures, personalities from social circles, senior executives of Hong Kong-based Chinese enterprises, and members of the foreign diplomatic corps.

President Xi, on behalf of the Central Government and the people of all ethnic groups across the country, extended their cordial greetings to all the people in Hong Kong and their warm congratulations to Madam Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, the newly inaugurated fifth-term Chief Executive of the HKSAR, principal officials of the fifth-term HKSAR government and members of the Executive Council. He also expressed their heartfelt thanks to all fellow Chinese and foreign friends for their good wishes and support to Hong Kong.

“Twenty years ago today, Hong Kong returned to the embrace of the motherland. This ended past humiliation and marked a major step forward toward the complete reunification of China. Hong Kong’s return to the motherland has gone down as a monumental achievement in the history of the Chinese nation. Hong Kong has since then embarked on a journey of unity and common development with the motherland,” said President Xi.

President Xi believed that Hong Kong has joined the remarkable journey toward the great renewal of the Chinese nation, and has maintained prosperity and stability since its return to the motherland.

“What has happened in Hong Kong fully demonstrates that the concept of ‘One Country, Two Systems’ provides the best solution to the historical question of Hong Kong and the best institutional arrangement to ensure Hong Kong’s long-term prosperity and stability after its return. ‘One Country, Two Systems’ has proved to be a workable solution welcomed by the people,” he continued.

President Xi further laid out four points on how to better implement the policy of “One Country, Two Systems” in Hong Kong. First, it is imperative to have a correct understanding of the relationship between “One Country” and “Two Systems”. Second, it is imperative to always act in accordance with the Constitution and the Basic Law. Third, it is imperative to always focus on development as the top priority. Fourth, it is imperative to always maintain a harmonious and stable social environment.

He hoped that in the next five years, the HKSAR government will unite people of all sectors in Hong Kong to fully and faithfully implement the principle of “One Country, Two Systems”, stay committed to the basis of “One Country”, well leverage the benefits of “Two Systems”, and make solid efforts to ensure success of its various endeavors. He is convinced that the practice of “One Country, Two Systems” in Hong Kong will write a new chapter and create new splendor for Hong Kong.

Mrs Carrie Lam, in her inaugural speech, said she was prepared to take on the greatest challenge in her public service career. Over the next five years she would respond to the trust and support placed in her by the people of Hong Kong and the Central People’s Government with diligence and achievements of the governing team under her leadership.

“Since our return to the Motherland 20 years ago, the principles of “One Country, Two Systems”, “Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong” and a high degree of autonomy have been the foundations of Hong Kong’s prosperity and stability. In accordance with the Basic Law, the Chief Executive shall, as the head of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, be accountable to the Central People’s Government and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. To accurately and comprehensively fulfil my duties as Chief Executive, I will resolutely do everything within my ability to implement the “One Country, Two Systems” principle, uphold the Basic Law, defend the rule of law, and promote a deep and positive relationship between the Central Government and the Hong Kong SAR,” she said.

“Over the past three months, as Chief Executive-elect, I have reached out further to meet more people from a wide range of sectors. This has included members of the Legislative Council, education groups, politicians, business people, visitors from the Mainland and overseas, entrepreneurs in innovation and technology, as well as young people. Their understanding and encouraging attitude, as well as words of advice, have all reinforced my firm confidence in the future of Hong Kong. While long-standing problems cannot be resolved overnight, we can tackle them with the benefit of very strong foundations, outstanding talents and the unique advantages of “One Country, Two Systems”. As long as we stand united and remain focused, I have no doubt that Hong Kong can reach even greater heights,” she continued.

Towards the end of her inaugural speech, Mrs Lam quoted “Sail On”, the Chinese theme song of the public participation campaign co-ordinated by her four years ago:

“There is a world we can go.
There are bright spots in life.
Soaring above the busy harbour and bustling city,
Lies narrow heritage lanes filled with love and passion.
Everyone feels lost sometimes, but we won’t give up hope.
We embrace all who show us trust in their eyes.
All you need is to see me by your side
Caring for you, all the way.”