China to stick to “one country, two systems” in Hong Kong, says Xi

BEIJING – China’s State newsagency, Xinhua, has reported President Xi Jinping as saying the Central Government is determined to stick to the principles of “one country, two systems”, “Hong Kong people governing Hong Kong” and a high degree of autonomy for the southern city. That determination would not change or waver, he said.

Xi’s comments came yesterday during a meeting with Carrie Lam, the newly-appointed Chief Executive of Hong Kong, in Beijing. Xi said full support would be given to Lam and the Hong Kong government to carry out their duties in accordance with the law.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the return of Hong Kong to China.

Xinhua quoted Xi as saying: “Hong Kong has experienced its share of ups and downs during the past 20 years, and faces challenges and risks as well as opportunities and hopes in this stage. Over the past two decades, great success has been achieved in the implementation of the ‘one country, two systems’ principle in Hong Kong.”

Lam won the election for Chief Executive of Hong Kong on March 26 with 777 of 1,163 valid votes.

Xinhua said Lam expressed her thanks for the Central Government’s appointment and its concern and support for the SAR’s development.

She said she would carry out her duty diligently and make all-out efforts to do her work well, adding that she would live up to the expectations of the Central Government and the great trust of Hong Kong citizens.  www.webershandwick.cn (ATI).