Amid the throng of protesters in the streets of Hong Kong, chief executive C.Y. Leung said on Wednesday that Hong Kong should capitalize on the advantages of the current "One Country, Two Systems" principle governing the special administrative region (HKSAR) to ensure its full constitutional development.

Like Us on Facebook

During the National Day reception, Leung confirmed that HKSAR's chief executive can be elected through one person, one vote from 2017 onward. He said China's Standing Committee of the National People's Congress has addressed the issue of HKSAR's universal suffrage.

Universal Suffrage Better Than None
The chief executive said he understands that people have differing opinions about what is a desirable Hong Kong reform process, but stressed having universal suffrage is way better than having none.

"It is definitely better to have the chief executive elected by five million eligible voters than by 1,200 people," Leung said.

He remains hopeful that all sectors of Hong Kong will cooperate with the government to complete the legislative work needed to achieve constitutional development.

One Country, Two Systems
Leung also broke down the benefits of the "One Country, Two Systems" governance principle. He said that under one country, Hong Kongers can expect full support from Beijing, while the doors of Mainland China are open to welcome them in various career opportunities.

Under "Two Systems," he said Hong Kong's financial and legal systems will remain autonomous and different from what is being practiced in Mainland China. Leung said the business and legal autonomies remain attractive to foreign businesses.

Leung also stressed that the "One Country, Two Systems" principle offer more than the benefits associated with economic development. He said the principle is wide-ranging and applies to other areas including arts, culture, scientific research and education.

Working Hand-In-Hand
Leung said Hong Kong and the Mainland should work hand in hand because the two are closely linked together in terms of development. He said this is the only way to make the Chinese dream a reality.

Quoting an excerpt of a white paper, he said the "one country, two systems' will help enrich Hong Kong and maintain long-term stability and prosperity in the region. Leung said it would reinforce Hong Kong as an integral part of the overarching Chinese dream.

Leung attended the flag-raising ceremony on Wednesday morning together with 2,500 people to celebrate the 65th National Day of China.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong protesters snubbed Leung's plea to refrain from marching the streets. The Occupy protesters have called for Leung's resignation.

TagsPolitics of Hong Kong, Hong Kong