Hong Kong can gain from Xi Jinping’s vision of national rejuvenation
The 63-year-old Hong Kong Civic Association supports the vision of President Xi Jinping in building socialism with Chinese characteristics in an increasingly prosperous China. Xi outlined this vision when he spoke at the opening of the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China on October 18.
During his speech, Xi vowed that the party would ensure the central government’s overall jurisdiction over the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and a high degree of autonomy for the SAR.
He also said the party would ensure that the principle of “one country, two systems” is unwaveringly upheld.
Because of the strong support from the central government, Hong Kong’s “one country, two systems” principle has been a tremendous success in the past 20 years, since sovereignty was returned to China. And the future looks bright for our city, provided we continue contributing towards the realisation of our country’s national rejuvenation while maintaining prosperity and stability for our city and our 7.3 million citizens.
We are fortunate that our chief executive, Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, has a first-rate relationship with the central government and its top leadership. She has the capacity and will to do her utmost to uphold the interests of Hong Kong citizens within the framework of the country’s national constitution and the Basic Law, and “one country, two systems”.
At this early stage of her five-year term, Lam is right to focus her administration’s efforts not only on economic development but equally on important livelihood issues, including public housing, education, elderly care, health care, youth development, public transport and the environment.
At this historic juncture, Xi, the leader of the ruling political party and the central government, has made the clarion call for the country’s national rejuvenation.
Let us all in Hong Kong, especially legislators, district councillors and community leaders, unite with our chief executive to forge a better Hong Kong for all, by supporting this national rejuvenation goal, and in the process improve the living standards of our people.
To our local political leaders who are calling for an immediate revival of talks on political reform, we suggest that, at this time, they focus more on supporting the administration on livelihood and city improvement issues.
They should seek opportunities for constructive dialogue and mutual cooperation with the mainland authorities.
Hilton Cheong-Leen, life president, Frederick Lynn, chairman,
Hong Kong Civic Association
