Hong Kong on Saturday held a grand celebration for the 9th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland and the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

At a reception in celebration Saturday morning, Donald Tsang, Chief Executive of HKSAR, spoke highly of the central government policy toward the special administrative region.

Hong Kong's return to the motherland signifies the realization of the concepts of "One Country, Two Systems", "Hong Kong people governing Hong Kong" and a high degree of autonomy, he said.

He said that in implementing these concepts during the past nine years, Hong Kong has achieved success while also encountering challenges and difficulties.

"The concept of 'One Country, Two Systems' is an innovative systemic arrangement. Its successful implementation will be historically significant," said Tsang.

He told more than 1,000 officials, diplomats and celebrities attending the reception that one of Hong Kong's most important missions is to ensure the successful implementation of the concepts of "One Country, Two Systems" and "Hong Kong people governing Hong Kong."

Meanwhile, he said Hong Kong should grasp the opportunity of economic growth and keep the economy of Hong Kong in good shape.

Also a national flag raising ceremony was held early Saturday morning as part of the grand celebration. Donald Tsang and other senior officials from the HKSAR government attended the ceremony.

Source: Xinhua