Hong Kong’s National Day flag-raising ceremony began at 8am at Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai, with no public viewing area provided. Guests then moved to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre for a reception chaired by Chief Executive Mr John KC Lee.
Mr John KC Lee said the occasion was significant because it was the first National Day since Hong Kong’s first five-year plan was announced. He said the plan was intended to build on the city’s advantages under the one-country, two-systems framework, respond to wider trends and pursue opportunities arising from national development. He said it followed broad consultation and aimed to create more development gains for residents.
During the reception, a Hong Kong payload specialist taking part in the Shenzhou 23 crewed mission sent a video message of thanks and good wishes to the country from space.