Zheng Yanxiong, Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Director, attended a luncheon meeting of the Legislative Council and delivered a speech today (June 28).
"I would like to explore with you what has remained unchanged and what has changed in Hong Kong since the handover", Zheng noted,
"First, 'one country, two systems' remains unchanged. Hong Kong's constitutional order, institutional framework, rule of law, governance system, free economy, cultural diversity and way of life under 'one country, two systems' remain unchanged."
"Second, the high degree of autonomy remains unchanged. Since the implementation of the principle of 'patriots administering Hong Kong', there has been good interaction between the executive and the legislature, with the implementation of the Central Authorities' power to govern comprehensively and the protection of the HKSAR's right to a high degree of autonomy converging in a unified manner."
"Thirdly, the rule of law and business environment remain unchanged. The steady implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law and Safeguarding National Security Ordinance is a key component of the rule of law and business environment in the SAR. Hong Kong has maintained the free flow of people, goods, capital and other factors, and remains one of the freest and most open economies in the world."
"Fourth, democracy and freedom remain unchanged. The public participates in various elections in an orderly and enthusiastic manner, and the election results are highly recognized. Freedom of the press and speech is effectively protected. The HKSAR government emphasizes the release of authoritative information through the media and is aware of public concerns. The channels for the expression of social aspirations have become more stable and orderly. Universities remain internationalized, liberal and professional, and academic freedom is fully respected."
"Fifthly, the way of life and socialization has not changed. Biliteracy and trilingualism are freely available. Many religions co-exist in Hong Kong, and religious activities of all kinds take place as usual. This year, 79 restaurants in Hong Kong have been selected to join the Michelin-starred restaurant list. In recent years, the overall betting participation rate of the public has been around 40%."
"Sixthly, the internationalization feature remains unchanged. Hong Kong is deeply connected to the world, with more than 200 international summits, forums and exhibitions held in Hong Kong every year."
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