REVIEW OF THE PAST, EXPECTATIONS OF THE FUTURE On the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to the motherland, Chief Executive of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), Director of the Liaison Office of the Central Government in Hong Kong, former

administering Hong Kong and a high degree of autonomy, as well as the rule of law and freedom in Hong Kong, have remained unchanged. This is the original intention of the “one country, two systems” principle.

I participated twice in work related to Hong Kong’s return to China. The first time was in 1985, when I took part in legislative work related to Article 24 of the Basic Law of Hong Kong, and the second was in 1996, when I participated in the preparation of the 1997 and 1998 budgets. I am honored to be able to participate in this great cause. It is meaningful to be able to contribute to the smooth return of Hong Kong.

When I was elected to be chief executive, and later was appointed by the Central Government, I felt heavy responsibility and there was a long way to go. The SAR chief executive is accountable to the Central Government as well as the SAR Government. To deal with the relationship between the Central Government’s requirements and the local conditions in Hong Kong, it is necessary to follow the Basic Law precisely.

“Hong Kong independence” has no grounds. “One country, two systems” means Hong Kong SAR is an integral part of China, and Hong Kong’s return is conducive to safeguarding the sovereignty, security and development of the country.

I believe that the vast majority of Hong Kong people have never felt that “Hong Kong independence” is viable. All “Hong Kong independence” acts are against local laws and we must strictly enforce the law. The government