Stress on unity heartens Hong Kong delegations

Encouraged by President Xi Jinping's emphasis on unity, development and strength on the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic of China on Tuesday, guests of honor from Hong Kong delegations expressed confidence this week over the development of the nation and the special administrative region.

"As President Xi said in his address to the world, there is no force that can shake the foundation of this great nation. No force can stop the Chinese people and the Chinese nation from forging ahead," said Wong Kwan-yu, president of the Hong Kong Federation of Education Workers.

"Despite the opposition camp and some radical members who want to mess up Hong Kong, they can never change the fact that Hong Kong is an integral part of our country," he said.

"The central government has shown its confidence in ensuring the full and faithful implementation of 'one country, two systems' in Hong Kong, and maintaining the city's long-lasting prosperity and stability."

Hong Kong Legislative Council member Vincent Cheng Wing-shun, of the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong, said: "President Xi has pointed out a broad direction" for Hong Kong.

"This gives us confidence that Hong Kong can resolve conflicts, fight violent extremists and eventually ride out the storm, as long as we say a firm 'no' to violence with concerted efforts and start a peaceful dialogue under the rule of law."

Wong and Cheng were part of a delegation of 240 people, led by Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, on a three-day trip to Beijing to attend the National Day celebrations.

Business heavyweights, professionals and award-winning athletes, as well as top officials and pro-establishment lawmakers were among the delegates. Wang Zhi-min, director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong SAR, accompanied the group as an adviser.

Leung Chun-ying, vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, joined a separate delegation for the celebration in Beijing.

The former Hong Kong chief executive said it was the fourth time he had seen the parade in the capital. He said having attended the events in 1984, 1999 and 2009, he has been able to see the nation's progress and the evidence of its glowing success story.

Leung said that this year he has been particularly impressed with the colorful floats and participation from Hong Kong and Macao. "These Hong Kong- and Macao-related elements add an interesting footnote to the fact that the two SARs are an inseparable part of our country," he said.

Bernard Charnwut Chan, convenor of the non-official members of the Executive Council, said: "President Xi's speech and Hong Kong-related elements in the parade mean so much to the city today.

"As Hong Kong is fighting its way through such a difficult time, the country and its people, as always, spare no effort to support the city in weathering the storm. I believe most Hong Kong citizens would share these special feelings with me."

Leung, citing Xi's address, added, "Taking advantage of 'one country' while benefiting from 'two systems', Hong Kong has what it takes to play a bigger role in our country's next stage of development.

"We should have every faith in that."