Chief Executive John Lee on Monday vowed that Hong Kong’s first five-year plan would uphold the rule of law and the city’s core systems and expressed hope for everyone to reap a dividend from development.

Writing in several newspapers two days before delivering the blueprint alongside his Policy Address, Lee recalled being asked whether a five-year plan would change Hong Kong’s established system.

"The answer is no," he wrote, adding that Hong Kong will continue to uphold the rule of law, keep its capitalist system, adhere to the Basic Law, and safeguard "One Country, Two Systems."

Lee also recalled being asked how the blueprint relates to ordinary citizens.

He said the plan sets out the government’s vision for economic and social development and is designed to safeguard and improve livelihoods.

“I want the people of Hong Kong – every one of you – to share in the dividends of development, and feel a sense of happiness and fulfilment,” he wrote.

Lee thanked lawmakers and government bureaus and departments for their efforts in helping complete the five-year plan from scratch in less than a year.

He pointed out that over 100 consultation sessions were held over the past year, with 80 percent of the more than 17,000 submissions coming from individuals.

Lee said the public voice was clear, with citizens actively supporting the creation of a five-year plan to consolidate the city’s traditional advantages, accelerate the development of the Northern Metropolis, and further improve livelihoods.

The chief executive added he was confident that with the strong support of the country, Hong Kong would open a new chapter, marching from stability to prosperity.




Edited by Tony Sabine