Hundreds turned out at Golden Bauhinia Square in Hong Kong on Wednesday, to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. The occasion was marked by the ceremonial raising of the national flag and the Hong Kong SAR's golden bauhinia flag and a military flypast.

Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying told the assembled group of government leaders and local dignitaries that Hong Kong's future resides in "One Country, Two Systems", and he called on all sides to support reforms leading toward the cherished goal of universal suffrage for Hong Kong.

"It is understandable that different people may have different ideas about a desirable reform package. But it is definitely better to have universal suffrage than not. It is definitely better to have the Chief Executive elected by 5 million eligible voters than by 1,200 people," he told the crowd.

The Chief Executive went on to say it is essential that Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland work hand in hand if the Chinese Dream is to be fully realized.

Elsewhere protesters opposed to the National People's Congress Standing Committee's decision on the methods of the 2017 Chief Executive Election continued to block roads in key business districts, obstructing traffic and forcing many businesses to close doors.

There are also demonstrations of solidarity by a movement calling itself "Support Police", in support of efforts by the police force to maintain order during the protests.

Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying heads the list of leading government officials and local dignitaries at a flag-raising ceremony at Golden Bauhinia Square, marking the 65th anniversary of the People's Republic of China. Photos by Edmond Tang, Parker Zheng, Roy Liu / China Daily

Following the playing of the national anthem by a military band, the Chief Executive addresses hundreds of guests in attendance that universal suffrage clearly is the best choice for Hong Kong.

(HK Edition 10/02/2014 page12)