Seven members of Hong Kong’s elite named in Xi Jinping’s acknowledgement of city’s role in ‘reform and opening up’
- Leader credits members of elites from former European colonies for their contributions to national reform
- Xi notes his own association with, and affections for, both cities
President Xi Jinping gave Hong Kong and Macau a ringing endorsement as he set out how both cities blazed a trail during China’s economic reforms, and praised the cities as being among the “miracle creators” of the country’s development.
Xi also noted how the former European colonies had taken the lead during China’s successful reform and opening up over the past 40 years, investing on the mainland, setting examples of how market economies worked and serving as test beds for innovation.
He also named seven members of the Hong Kong elite and one from Macau’s as examples of the cities’ contributions.
The president spoke on Monday at a closed-door meeting with a delegation of top officials and business leaders from the semi-autonomous cities.
“Over the 40 years of reform and opening up, our country’s development has made historic achievements that have attracted world attention,” Xi said. “Hong Kong and Macau compatriots, as well as overseas companies and individuals based in Hong Kong and Macau, have their share of contributions. Regarding this, the mother country and people will never forget.
“Hong Kong and Macau compatriots, like mainland people, are both the creators of the country’s great miracle of reform and opening up.”