BEIJING: President Xi Jinping called on compatriots in Hong Kong to join hands with the whole nation to “grasp the opportunities of the country’s development” and further implement the one country, two systems principle.

Xi said this on Monday while visiting an exhibition here at the National Museum of China on achievements since the return of Hong Kong to China in 1997.

Concerted efforts are expected in exploration and innovation, with the goal being to maintain the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong and to ensure a better future there, he said.

Multimedia presentations at the museum featured memorable moments in Hong Kong, including its return, and its reinforced role as an international financial centre and rising star in the building of the Belt and Road.

Speaking of the past 20 years, Xi said the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), with the strong support of the central government and the mainland, has witnessed comprehensive development in a variety of fields and has made achievements recognized by the world.

“The great vitality of one country, two systems has been demonstrated,” said Xi.

“Experience during the two decades has proved that one country, two systems is not only the best solution to the Hong Kong issue, but also the best institutional arrangement for long-term prosperity and stability after the return of Hong Kong.

“The nation should further implement one country, two systems in an unswerving, all-out and accurate manner, and act in strict accordance with the country’s Constitution and the Basic Law of the SAR to better promote Hong Kong’s development.”

Xi will attend the ceremony marking the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return this Sunday. — China Daily / Asia News Network