Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Wednesday reaffirmed the central government’s backing for the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions, both of which continue to enjoy a high degree of autonomy under “one country, two systems”, to deepen international exchanges and cooperation as the nation continues to expand its opening-up policy.
He also pledged to support the two SARs in developing the economy and upholding their constitutional order, while bolstering the innovation capacity of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and amplifying the 11-city cluster’s economic drive to surrounding regions.
The premier made the remarks in delivering the State Council’s work report at the opening of the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress -- the nation’s top legislature.
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Noting the complex and challenging developments in the past year, he credited the country’s overall stable performance and steady growth to the central government’s leadership, as well as efforts by all sectors of society, including contributions by Hong Kong and Macao residents.
In the new year, Li said the nation will keep expanding higher standard opening-up, and stabilizing foreign trade and investment.
“Regardless of the changes in the external environment, we should remain steadfast in our commitment to opening up,” he said.
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The premier added the central government will fully implement the “one country, two systems” principle, uphold constitutional order in Hong Kong and Macao as stipulated in the Constitution and in the Basic Laws of the two SARs, and ensure that both cities are administered by patriots.
The nation will support Hong Kong and Macao SARs in deepening international exchanges, growing their economies and improving the lives of their people, Li said.
The central government will back the two SARs in better integrating into the nation’s overall development and maintaining long-term prosperity and stability.
Li also vowed to boost the innovation capacity of the Greater Bay Area, elevating its role as a catalyst for the development of surrounding areas.
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Since its inception in 2019, the Greater Bay Area, comprising Hong Kong and Macao SARs, and nine cities in Guangdong province, has grown into a powerhouse for emerging industries, such as advanced manufacturing and artificial intelligence,
Hong Kong SAR Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu and Macao SAR Chief Executive Sam Hou-fai attended the NPC’s opening session as guests.
