Today (July 1), Hong Kong celebrated the 28th anniversary of its return to the motherland with a grand fishing vessel parade in Victoria Harbour. Organized by several fishermen's associations, the event featured 28 large fishing vessels symbolizing the 28th anniversary. The vessels sailed in formation along Victoria Harbour, drawing throngs of spectators who waved national flags and captured the moment of the celebration.
The parade commenced with an opening ceremony and a flag-raising event held aboard two of the fishing vessels moored in the harbor. The ceremony was attended by officials from the HKSAR government, representatives from the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government, legislators, and leaders from the fishing industry. Following a ceremonial horn-blowing, the parade officially began, with the vessels starting from Tsim Sha Tsui, passing through Sai Wan and the Golden Bauhinia Square, and completing a scenic loop.
Secretary for Environment and Ecology Tse Chin-wan, during his speech at the event, praised the fishing community for its patriotic spirit and longstanding support for the HKSAR government's policies. On behalf of the government, he expressed gratitude to the Hong Kong Fishermen Consortium, the local fishing industry, and all fishermen.
Tse emphasized that, with the support of the motherland, the HKSAR government will continue working alongside all sectors of society to build a brighter future for the city. He also pledged to collaborate with the fishing industry to drive its modernization and usher in a new chapter for HK's fisheries.
Chairman of the Hong Kong Fishermen Consortium, Cheung Siu-keung, highlighted in his speech that HK has entered a new stage of governance and prosperity as the city marks its 28th anniversary of its return to the motherland. He stated that the association organized the parade to express their blessings for the motherland and HK, as well as to share the joy of prosperity with various sectors of society.
He added that both the central and HKSAR governments highly value the development of the fishing industry and have introduced policies to support the sector. The fishing community, in return, will continue leveraging HK's unique advantages to contribute to national initiatives, such as the Belt and Road Initiative, and promote advancements in smart fisheries and deep-sea aquaculture. Cheung expressed confidence that HK, as a "shining pearl," will continue to shine bright.
Chow Shui-kan, Chairman of the H.K. & KLN. Fishermen Association Ltd told DotDotNews reporter that this year marks the first time the association has hosted a flag-raising ceremony aboard the vessels. The event received an enthusiastic response from onshore spectators, leaving him deeply satisfied with the results. He hopes that the event will strengthen the national identity of fishermen and the public alike, fostering a greater appreciation for the country's strength and a brighter future for fishermen's livelihoods.
In addition to the fishing vessel parade, many citizens were seen waving national flags and singing "Ode to the Motherland" near the Star Ferry Pier in Tsim Sha Tsui, joining in the celebration of this special day.
(Reporter: Liu Honglin; English Editor: Zoey Sun)
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