On the 29th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to the motherland on Wednesday, the city commemorated both its achievements under the “one country, two systems” principle and its long-term development prospects under the upcoming five-year plan.

Speaking at a reception to mark the occasion, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said the special administrative region government will accelerate work on the city’s first five-year plan and press ahead with development of the Northern Metropolis.

READ MORE: HK hosts gala to mark 29th anniversary of SAR’s establishment

Lee described the five-year plan as a people-centered blueprint, covering the economy, infrastructure, healthcare, education and housing. He said it would help Hong Kong better align with national development while responding to the practical needs of residents.

Calling the Northern Metropolis a breakthrough point for Hong Kong’s future development, he said the project will inject new momentum for growth and expand opportunities for innovation.

This year marks the fifth and final year of Lee’s current term. Reflecting on his administration’s work over the past four years, Lee said the SAR government had reshaped its internal culture, promoted a results-oriented approach, and addressed several long-standing problems.

The administration strengthened Hong Kong’s stability and security by completing local national security legislation under Article 23 of the Basic Law, and fully implementing the principle of “patriots administering Hong Kong” through electoral system and district governance reforms.

On the economic front, Hong Kong recorded 3.6 percent growth in 2025, placed second globally in the latest World Competitiveness Ranking and fourth in the World Talent Ranking, while retaining its title as the world’s freest economy.

Lee pledged to continue improving people’s livelihoods and building a harmonious, stable, caring and inclusive society. With the support of the nation and the advantages of “one country, two systems”, he said, Hong Kong will achieve even greater development in the years ahead.

A video shown at the reception featured payload specialist Lai Ka-ying, Hong Kong’s first astronaut, speaking from the nation’s Tiangong space station. Standing in front of a large SAR regional flag, Lai said she hopes Hong Kong will become more prosperous and stable with the country’s support.

“(My) speaking to you from space today demonstrates the invaluable opportunities Hong Kong enjoys under ‘one country, two systems’ with the strong support of the motherland,” she said.

The day’s commemorations began with a flag-raising ceremony at Golden Bauhinia Square, attended by senior officials and community leaders.

Citywide festivities

Across the city, a festive atmosphere lifted the spirits of  families, residents, and tourists. More than 3,000 merchants offered coupons, and many restaurants provided 29 percent discounts on dine-in bills.

Free entry was presented across major cultural venues, including public museums, regular exhibitions at M+ and the Hong Kong Palace Museum, and the Wetland Park. Fourteen revitalized heritage sites, including Tai Kwun and PMQ, added more free guided tours.

Mark Huang, who lined up early at the West Kowloon Cultural District with his son, said July 1 activities provide a chance to reflect on Hong Kong’s development and growing prosperity. “I’ve watched Hong Kong grow and thrive over the past years, and I am proud of how prosperous it has become,” he said.

He added that his son’s kindergarten had introduced lessons about Hong Kong’s return to the motherland, helping children develop a stronger sense of national identity and belonging.

ALSO READ: CE Lee vows to speed up formulation of Hong Kong's five-year plan

The MTR Corp raffled off 71,000 free single-journey tickets, trams offered free rides through Friday, and the Star Ferry waived fares on its Tsim Sha Tsui-Wan Chai route for the day.

On Hong Kong Island, tourists Xie Yu and Li Jialin, visiting from Chongqing, took a tram ride to Kennedy Town and were delighted to realize their trip coincided with the free-ride promotion. “The tram was very crowded and moved slowly, but it had its own charming character,” Xie said.

Zeng Ziwen and Roys Zhang contributed to the story.