Published: 21:32, September 23, 2024 | Updated: 21:57, September 23, 2024
Chiu Chow community organizations gather to celebrate National Day
By Danny Xu
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu (center) attends a reception hosted by the Chiu Chow community to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, in Island Shangri-La Hong Kong on Sept 23, 2024. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY)

Members of Chiu Chow community organizations in Hong Kong came together on Monday to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

Government officials, lawmakers, representatives from various organizations, and individuals from different sectors also attended the reception in Island Shangri-La Hong Kong in Admiralty.

Speaking at the event, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said that the nation has become a major technological power and a talent hub, wielding significant influence on the international stage.

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He also noted that the Chiu Chow community plays a vital role in the development of Hong Kong. The Federation of Hong Kong Chiu Chow Community Organizations unites people from all walks of life, staying true to their original aspirations while firmly supporting the government.

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu delivers a speech during a reception hosted by the Chiu Chow community to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, in Island Shangri-La Hong Kong on Sept 23, 2024. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY)

The federation promotes a value centered on love for the nation and Hong Kong, advocates for patriotic education, and actively participates in Hong Kong's social and political affairs, contributing to the prosperity and stability of both the nation and Hong Kong, Lee added.

He noted that the third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China emphasized leveraging the advantages of "one country, two systems", allowing Hong Kong to play a greater role in the country's opening-up efforts.

He said Hong Kong enjoys a unique position of being backed by the motherland while having strong connections with the world, enabling it to serve as a super connector. Lee said he looks forward to Chiu Chow compatriots actively utilizing their networks and influence to support Hong Kong's high-quality development, fully contributing to the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

Bunny Chan Chung-bun, president of the Federation of Hong Kong Chiu Chow Community Organizations, delivers a speech during a reception hosted by Chiu Chow community organizations to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China in Admiralty, Hong Kong on Sept 23, 2024. (DANNY XU / CHINA DAILY)

Bunny Chan Chung-bun, president of the federation, said that over the past 75 years, China's economic strength, national defense, technology, culture, and people’s standard of living have undergone tremendous changes. The nation has become a globally recognized builder of peace and a contributor to worldwide development.

History has shown that Hong Kong has always played a positive role in the country's reform and opening-up, Chan said, emphasizing that Hong Kong must continuously seek innovation and breakthroughs, consistently enhancing its strengths to contribute to the needs of the motherland.

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Chan stated that in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, the federation will host the 4th Hong Kong Chiu Chow Festival this November, providing the younger generation with an opportunity to learn about the rich traditions of Chinese culture.