1. Hong Kong, situated on the south-eastern coast of the Mainland, is a dynamic, vibrant and cosmopolitan metropolis.

2. We have one of the world's busiest and most efficient international airports and port. Cargo and passenger throughput is among the highest in the world and ranks first in China.

3. A modern, efficient information and communications network ensures Hong Kong maintains its role as a regional telecommunications hub.

4. Our world-class conference and exhibition facilities have facilitated trade and commerce.

5. Hong Kong's free trade and open market policies, coupled with a well-established financial system, have helped us to become an international financial and trading centre.

6. The 'one country, two systems' concept put forward by Mr Deng Xiaoping in 1984 laid down a clear-cut principle for Hong Kong's reunification with the Mainland.

7. On 1 July 1997, China resumed the exercise of sovereignty over Hong Kong. It was a historic moment for all Chinese people. The people of Hong Kong celebrated Hong Kong's return to the motherland with joy and excitement.

8. "After the return of Hong Kong, the Chinese Government will unswervingly implement the basic policies of 'one country, two systems', 'Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong' and 'a high degree of autonomy', keep the previous socio-economic system and way of life of Hong Kong unchanged and its laws basically unchanged." - President Jiang Zemin

9. After the reunification, the Central Government has fully implemented the 'one country, two systems' principle and has given Hong Kong strong and full support.

10. The Basic Law of the HKSAR stipulates that the previous systems and way of life in Hong Kong shall remain unchanged for 50 years.

11. The Basic Law ensures that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region enjoys independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication. The rule of law has provided a level playing field and sound business environment.

12. Hong Kong people actively took part in the HKSAR's first Legislative Council election held in 1998 in accordance with the Basic Law.

13. After reunification, Hong Kong, using the name 'Hong Kong, China', can maintain and develop relations with foreign states and regions and relevant international organizations. For the first time. Hong Kong has participated in international sporting events using the name 'Hong Kong, China' and obtained excellent results.

14. Hong Kong's success as an international financial and trading centre and transportation and communications hub owes much to its adaptable, enterprising and creative talents, and its favourable geographical position.

15. With a well-established financial management system, a strong foreign exchange reserve and the full support of the Mainland, Hong Kong has successfully overcome the regional financial turmoil.

16. Our efficient, impartial and upright civil service and law-enforcement agencies have made Hong Kong one of the world's safest and cleanest cities. This adds to the high quality of life in Hong Kong.

17. The HKSAR Government will introduce large-scale infrastructure projects to make Hong Kong a greener, more energy-efficient city ready to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

18. Hong Kong is embarking on a host of initiatives to enhance the role of innovation and technology in the economy. Among them, a world-class teleport will provide global satellite communications links.

19. We also plan to develop and promote Hong Kong as an international centre for traditional Chinese medicine.

20. Hong Kong is one of the world's major film production centres and has a flourishing television sector.

21. With a fascinating blend of East and West, Hong Kong is a popular tourist destination.

22. We will build state-of-the-art entertainment facilities and performance venues to host world-class entertainment events and to develop Hong Kong into 'Asia's entertainment capital'.

23. As we enter the 21st century, we will make the most of our advantages under 'one country, two systems' and continue to contribute to the modernization of the Mainland.

24. "We are confident of developing Hong Kong into a knowledge-based, highly civilized society; a glamorous city of innovation and technology in the Orient, a wide bridge linking China with the rest of the world. Hong Kong's future will be even brighter and more brilliant than ever." - Mr Tung Chee Hwa, HKSAR Chief Executive