John Lee vows to be ‘reformer’ as Hong Kong shows benefits of security to world
On handover anniversary, city leader pledges to boost development backed by security, expedite Northern Metropolis project and improve residents’ lives
Hong Kong’s leader has vowed his team will be “reformers” who rise to challenges rather than become “complacent idlers”, pledging to seize development opportunities to let the city showcase “the certainties of safety and stability” the world needs in the face of geopolitical tensions, as he enters his fourth year in office.
The day’s celebrations began with a flag-raising ceremony at Golden Bauhinia Square in the morning, followed by a reception where Lee gave the keynote address.
Throughout the day, residents and tourists took advantage of free museum visits, complimentary transport rides and discounted meals as part of the government-coordinated festivities. Authorities also adorned the city with 130,000 decorations, including national and city flags.
But some residents chose to spend the public holiday in Shenzhen, disappointing some restaurants in Hong Kong.
In his speech, Lee reaffirmed his determination to undertake reforms, pledging to fully seize opportunities to demonstrate “the certainties of safety and stability” that the world needed.