HKSAR gov't holds flag-raising ceremony, reception to mark 73rd founding anniversary of PRC

A flag-raising ceremony is held at the Golden Bauhinia Square by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government to celebrate the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China in Hong Kong, south China, Oct. 1, 2022. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

The government of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) on Saturday held a flag-raising ceremony and a reception to celebrate the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC).

The flag-raising ceremony was held at the Golden Bauhinia Square Saturday morning. As China's national flag and the flag of the HKSAR were hoisted, helicopters of the Government Flying Service flew over Victoria Harbor to display a large national flag and flag of the HKSAR. A fireboat replied with a water salute.

Following the ceremony, a grand reception was hosted by the HKSAR government in the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center.

In his speech at the reception, HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee said it is clearly evident that the Chinese people blazed a trail to a flourishing future with strong determination, wisdom, and strength, and their tremendous efforts have made possible China's remarkable achievements in the form of rapid economic growth, long-term stability and prosperity.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland, with remarkable achievements attained over the last quarter century, Lee said, noting that Hong Kong always has the motherland's strong backing in matters ranging from opening up opportunities to overcoming difficulties.

"I have full confidence in the future of Hong Kong, and so should you," he said. "Because Hong Kong has the irreplaceably distinct advantages of enjoying the strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world."

Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Leung Chun-ying, officials with the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR, the Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR, the Office of the Commissioner of the Chinese Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR, and the Hong Kong Garrison of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, and prominent figures from all walks of life in Hong Kong attended the flag-raising ceremony and the reception. ■

A flag-raising ceremony is held at the Golden Bauhinia Square by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government to celebrate the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China in Hong Kong, south China, Oct. 1, 2022. (Xinhua/Li Gang)