Policy Address

XIV. Conclusion

273. Mr President, Honourable Members and fellow citizens, this year marks the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to the Motherland. Over the past two decades, our country has made remarkable achievements, playing an increasingly important role in international affairs. Under the arrangement of “one country, two systems”, Hong Kong has benefited from the strength of “one country” and the convenience of “two systems”. With the rapid growth in the Mainland and the favourable initiatives offered by our country, the current-term Government and the Hong Kong community shall make good use of the unique dual advantages of “one country, two systems”, leverage our economic development for improving people’s livelihood, and at the same time contribute to our country’s development.

274. As we benefit from the opportunities brought by the development of our country and the national policies in our favour, we must clearly recognise that Hong Kong is an inalienable part of our country. This is both a legal fact and an internationally recognised political reality, leaving no room whatsoever for Hong Kong to become independent or separate from the Motherland in any manner. The high degree of autonomy that Hong Kong enjoys shall be in accordance with the provisions of the Basic Law. The autonomy is not absolute or arbitrary. Nor can it take any other form or be exercised to any other degree. Amidst international relations of great complexity, it is the obligation of each and every Hong Kong citizen to safeguard our country’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.

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