Hong Kong celebrates 27th return anniversary with flag-raising ceremonies, celebrations

China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region commemorated the 27th anniversary of its return to China on Monday with solemn flag-raising ceremonies and a celebratory reception.

At the Golden Bauhinia Square, the national flag of China and the flag of HKSAR were ceremoniously hoisted at 8:00 amid the strains of the national anthem performed by a band.

Attendees included Vice Chairman of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) Leung Chun-ying, HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, officials from the central government's office in Hong Kong, and representatives from various sectors of society.

The celebration continued with helicopters from Hong Kong's disciplined forces flying over the Victoria Harbour, displaying both flags, while a fireboat saluted with water jets.

Earlier in the morning, the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in HKSAR and the Commissioner's Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry in HKSAR held their respective flag-raising ceremonies at 07:00.

Following the ceremony, the HKSAR government hosted a reception at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center.

"We have witnessed ongoing economic development and steady enhancements in the quality of people's life. It's an honor to actively participate in this era of prosperity, and we deeply appreciate the unwavering support and care from the central government. With the support of our motherland, we are embracing a future of greater progress," said Starry Lee Wai King, a member of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress.

"Hong Kong is backed by our motherland and connected globally. With the opportunities from the Belt and Road Initiative and the Greater Bay Area, the central government extends full support to Hong Kong. We, the people in Hong Kong, will unite and strive to shape a brighter future for Hong Kong," said Dennis Lam Shun-chiu, a Hong Kong deputy of National People's Congress.

Hong Kong celebrates 27th return anniversary with flag-raising ceremonies, celebrations

The Japanese yen continued to drop further to a 38-year low against the U.S. dollar on Wednesday, Japanese media Nikkei reported.

The U.S. dollar rose to as high as 161.83 yen in New York, marking the Japanese currency's weakest level since December 1986.

At the same time, the euro reached 173.76 yen, its highest rate against the yen since the European currency was introduced in 1999.

Japanese yen tumbles to 38-year low against U.S. dollar