As the architect of the "One Country, Two Systems" concept, Deng Xiaoping laid a solid foundation for the territory's smooth transition to Chinese sovereignty, as well as its long-term prosperity and stability.
The head of Hong Kong Commercial Daily Wu Song-ying said this Monday at the opening ceremony of a photograph exhibition commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Chinese leader's birth.
"Deng made great contributions to China's modernization drive in his lifetime. His revolutionary concepts led the country to an economic miracle and the creation of Special Economic Zones," Wu said in his opening address.
He said the Chinese leader had a special affection for Hong Kong.
"Before he died, Deng mentioned many times that he wanted to visit Hong Kong after it returned to China. Although this wish was not fulfilled, he had gazed upon the distant landscape of Hong Kong with great affection during two visits to the neighbouring city of Shenzhen."
Wu said the photographs in the exhibition document Deng's role in Hong Kong's political life, along with his two historic visits to Shenzhen.
Jointly organized by the Hong Kong Commercial Daily and the Hong Kong China Enterprises Association, the exhibition comprises more than 200 photographs and 100 cultural artefacts.
Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central Government in Hong Kong Li Gang and Home Affairs Secretary Patrick Ho Chi-ping attended the ceremony.
According to the organizers, the 26-day exhibition will provide an opportunity for Hong Kong citizens to better understand Deng's achievements and to honour him.
Meanwhile, Tsang Hin-chi, chairman of the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, said newly elected legislators in the upcoming Legislative Council elections should know how to communicate with the central government.
"Hong Kong should elect candidates who are willing to establish a good relationship with the central government, which will be beneficial to the long-term development of the territory," he told reporters after attending the opening ceremony of the exhibition.
(China Daily HK Edition August 17, 2004)
