Hong Kong celebrated the 28th anniversary of its return to China on Tuesday with a vibrant flag-raising ceremony and a grand reception. The event took place at the Golden Bauhinia Square, where dignitaries and residents gathered to mark the special occasion.
Prominent figures such as Leung Chun-ying, Vice Chairman of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, and John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), attended the ceremony. As the Hong Kong Police Silver Band performed “Ode to the Motherland,” a flag-guarding team escorted the national flag of the People’s Republic of China and the flag of the HKSAR into the square.
The atmosphere was electric as attendees stood solemnly, singing the national anthem while the flags were hoisted against the backdrop of the city’s iconic skyline. A helicopter flew over Victoria Harbour, displaying the national and regional flags, and a fireboat offered a water salute, adding to the festive mood.
At the reception held in the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Chief Executive John Lee addressed the audience. He highlighted the achievements of the current HKSAR government in promoting safety, stability, economic growth, and improved livelihoods for the people.
“Looking ahead, we pledge to safeguard high-quality development with high-level security,” Lee said. “As long as we seize the opportunities, enhance our value and competitiveness, and foster innovation, I am confident that Hong Kong will shine brighter than ever on the world stage.”
Earlier in the day, several central government offices in Hong Kong, including the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, also held flag-raising ceremonies to commemorate the anniversary.
