Xi Jinping's Visit to Hong Kong for the 25th Handover Anniversary
In a carefully coordinated and initially secret visit, President Xi Jinping traveled to Hong Kong to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the city's return to China. The visit, which spanned June 30 to July 1, focused on the inauguration of the 6th Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) government and the reinforcement of the one country, two systems framework—the constitutional principle that allows Hong Kong to maintain a high degree of autonomy while remaining part of China.
Unlike previous visits, this trip involved no overnight stays in the city, with the government issuing details via press releases only after the events had occurred.
Key Facts
- Purpose: To attend the 25th anniversary celebration of Hong Kong's return to China and the inauguration of the 6th SAR government.
- Transport: Arrival and departure via the CR400AF-2271 special high-speed train at West Kowloon Station.
- Core Message: Emphasis on the vitality of "one country, two systems" and the transition of Hong Kong from "chaos" to "stability."
- Key Directives: Introduction of the "four musts" and "four hopes" for the region's future governance.
Day 1: Arrival and Cultural Inspections
President Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Liyuan, arrived at Hong Kong West Kowloon Station at 3:30 p.m. on June 30. They were greeted on the platform by Chief Executive Carrie Lam and Luo Huining, Director of the Hong Kong Liaison Office, and later by Chief Executive-elect John Lee Ka-chiu and Leung Chun-ying in the lobby.
Upon arrival, President Xi noted that Hong Kong had "risen from the ashes" after overcoming severe tests and challenges, asserting that the current system ensures long-term prosperity and stability.
Cultural and Technological Engagements
While President Xi met with heads of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches at the Wan Chai Convention and Exhibition Centre, Peng Liyuan visited the Xiqu Centre in the West Kowloon Cultural District. She interacted with young actors and the "Hong Kong Heavenly Dunhuang Orchestra," eventually donating a collection of traditional opera works titled "Ancient Opera Series" to the centre.
President Xi also visited the Science Park at 5:35 p.m. to inspect a key laboratory of the InnoHK innovation platform, an R&D initiative designed to boost Hong Kong's technological capabilities. He encouraged local researchers and tech enterprises to continue their advancements.
The first day concluded with a dinner at Government House hosted by Carrie Lam and her husband, Lam Siu-por, before the President returned to Shenzhen at 10:14 p.m.
Day 2: Inauguration and Military Review
On July 1, President Xi attended the official celebration and inauguration ceremony at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. During his speech, he congratulated John Lee Ka-chiu and the new principal officials.
President Xi outlined a strategic roadmap for the city, consisting of the "four musts" and "four hopes":
- The Four Musts: Implementing "one country, two systems," adhering to the unity of central governance and SAR autonomy, implementing "patriots administering Hong Kong," and maintaining the city's unique advantages.
- The Four Hopes: Improving governance, enhancing development momentum, relieving livelihood difficulties, and maintaining harmony and stability.
Final Inspections and Departure
At 11:30 a.m., the President visited the Central Barracks of the Hong Kong Garrison. He praised the officers and soldiers for their role in transforming Hong Kong from a state of chaos to order and for implementing the decisions of the Party Central Committee and the Central Military Commission.
The visit concluded at 1 p.m. as President Xi and his delegation departed via high-speed rail. They were seen off by student groups and industry representatives, accompanied by primary school choirs singing "My People, My Country."
Visit Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Dates | June 30 – July 1 |
| Key Locations | West Kowloon Station, Convention and Exhibition Centre, Science Park, Government House, Central Barracks |
| Key Figures | Xi Jinping, Peng Liyuan, Carrie Lam, John Lee Ka-chiu |
| Primary Focus | 25th Handover Anniversary & 6th SAR Government Inauguration |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the visit kept secret initially?
The official information regarding the trip was not released or confirmed beforehand, and the government information services only issued press releases after the events had taken place.
What are the "four musts" mentioned by President Xi?
The "four musts" include implementing the "one country, two systems" policy, adhering to the unity of central governance and SAR autonomy, implementing "patriots administering Hong Kong," and maintaining Hong Kong's unique status and advantages.
What is the InnoHK platform?
InnoHK is an innovation and technology R&D platform in Hong Kong; President Xi visited one of its key laboratories at the Science Park to encourage researchers and tech enterprises.
How did President Xi travel to and from Hong Kong?
He traveled via a special high-speed train (CR400AF-2271), arriving and departing through the Hong Kong West Kowloon Station.
What was the significance of the visit to the Hong Kong Garrison?
The visit to the Central Barracks served to acknowledge the military's role in supporting the central government's work in governing Hong Kong and helping the city transition from chaos to order.