President Xi Jinping arrived by train in Hong Kong on Thursday to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the SAR, declaring that the city faces a brighter future after conquering a number of setbacks – so long as it sticks to the successful One Country, Two Systems formula.

After the first couple received a raucous welcome from dozens of primary school students waving both the national and SAR flags, he spoke of how he had missed the city throughout the five years since he last visited the territory.

“In the past five years, Hong Kong has always been in my mind. My heart, and that of the central government, are always with Hong Kong people,” he said.

“Hong Kong has withstood many severe tests and conquered a number of risks and challenges. Having gone through hardships, Hong Kong sets sail again,” the president added.

President Xi stressed that developments have proven that not only is ‘One Country, Two Systems’ alive and well, it is full of vigor and vitality, and will ensure that the SAR will have an even brighter future.

“[One Country, Two Systems] will ensure the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong, and could also safeguard the well-being of Hong Kong people. One Country, Two Systems is a sound policy,” he stressed.

“As long as we stay committed to the policy of One Country, Two Systems, Hong Kong will embrace a brighter future. Hong Kong will make a greater contribution to the rejuvenation of China.”

Before his speech, President Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, were greeted by Chief Executive Carrie Lam and her husband Lam Siu-por, and Liaison Office chief Luo Huining, as they stepped out of the express rail.

Groups of people, including school children greeted the first couple at the platform, chanting "Welcome, welcome!" in Putonghua, as they waved small national and SAR flags in greeting, while lion dancers also put on a show.

A host of mainland officials stationed in Hong Kong as well as senior local officials, including incoming CE John Lee, former CE CY Leung and finance chief Paul Chan, were all at the terminus to welcome the president.

Others welcoming the state leader also held up red banners, with one carrying the message “When Hong Kong's good, the country's good. When the country's good, Hong Kong's even better."

After his arrival, President Xi met with people from different sectors of society at the Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wanchai, before visiting Science Park in Tai Po at around 5.30pm. The First Lady, Peng Liyuan, meanwhile, visited Xiqu Centre in the West Kowloon Cultural District in the afternoon.
______________________________
Last updated: 2022-06-30 HKT 18:04