香港举行国庆庆祝活动

Taking time to mark National Day in Hong Kong, Chief Executive CY Leung is calling on people in the city to take advantage of the "one country, two-systems" policy to help Hong Kong grow.

CRI's Hong Kong correspondent Li Jing has more.

As part of his annual address on October 1st, Hong Kong Chief Executive CY Leung says as a part of China, Hong Kong is presented with a host of opportunities as the whole of China continues to grow.

He says all people in Hong Kong need to better-understand their Chinese roots if they hope to succeed in the future.

"In view of the rapid developments of our country, all people in Hong Kong, especially politicians and young people, need to gain a comprehensive understanding of the country's development from different perspectives, both for the good of the country and for their own careers."
CY Leung also says despite the continued opening-up of the mainland, Hong Kong will remain a special place.

"At different stages of national development, Hong Kong has always been able to play its part, making contributions to the country while improving the lives of local people. We should not underestimate ourselves. We have the conditions and capability to continue to leverage our strengths in the new situation and work together with all the people of China for the progress of the country and of Hong Kong."

The National Day ceremonies in Hong Kong have seen hundreds of people turn out to the flag-raising ceremony at Golden Bauhinia Square.

"This year marks the 66th birthday of our country, as well as the 70th anniversary of the victory of the war against Japanese aggression. It is very meaningful. So I decided to take the kids here to show them how great China is."

"I come to watch the flag-raising ceremony every chance I get. I do this because I'm Chinese."

A 23-minute National Day fireworks display is being staged over Victoria Harbor this evening to mark the National Day holiday.

For CRI, this is Li Jing in Hong Kong.