Today -- Tuesday, July 1, is the 6th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to China. On Monday, residents in the Special Administrative Region were already beginning to celebrate the occasion. Many expressed a warm welcome to Premier Wen Jiabao, who is currently in Hong Kong to attend the celebrations.
The Lion dance is a traditional Chinese celebration on major events. This time, it is to start a special parade to mark Hong Kong's return. The Hong Kong Fishermen's Association has arranged over one hundred boats, carrying both the national and the Special Administrative Region's flags, to tour around the city. They say the aim is to show support to the central government's policy of "One country, two systems, and Hong Kong being ruled by its own people."
Huang Ronggen, chairman of Hong Kong Fishermen's Association, is the organizer of the activity. He said that he feels encouraged by Premier Wen Jiabao's visit to Hong Kong. He is reassured by Wen Jiabao's speech that Hong Kong's unique political systems will not be changed.
Huang said that Hong Kong people have good feelings after Hong Kong's return. They hope their hometown will survive the current difficulties. And the two-day boat parade is a good way of expressing all their feelings.
As Hong Kong people celebrate the 6th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to China, sincerity and pride can be seen on many faces. Most people do not see any connection between the current economic difficulties and Hong Kong's return: they believe that the central government's constant support will help ensure Hong Kong's future prosperity.
Aside from other activities, an exhibition on the National Flag, Emblem and Athem is being staged at Hong Kong's City Hall. It's being hosted by Hong Kong's Cultural Services Department. Exhibitors say the exhibition is not merely a display of artifacts, but also a good occasion for civic education, fostering understanding of the motherland, as well Hong Kong's arduous road to return.
Jerry Chung, a Hong Kong Student, said, " I think, being a Chinese, it's important to know this part of history."
Music can never be neglected in any celebration. Musicians here have presented many concerts themed around Hong Kong. The latest one was on Sunday.
But the biggest celebration will come on July the first, when Hong Kong was formally returned to China six years ago.
(CCTV July 1, 2003)
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