Foreword

This year holds exceptional significance for our country's development. It marks not only the 77th Anniversary of the Founding of the People's Republic of China and the commencement of the National 15^th Five-Year Plan period, but also the 105^th Anniversary of the Founding of the Communist Party of China. The Chinese people are implementing the Central Government's strategic blueprint with dedication and advancing the historic mission of national rejuvenation with fortitude. Our country now strides steadfastly towards the Second Centenary Goal with full momentum, setting forth on a new-era march to build a great modern socialist country across all spheres.

When the country is strong, the nation stands tall. When the nation prospers, Hong Kong enjoys lasting stability. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government will unwaveringly safeguard the constitutional order, fully, faithfully and resolutely uphold the principle of "one country, two systems", firmly implement the principle of "patriots administering Hong Kong", and consistently enhance the efficacy of governance in accordance with the law. We will intensify our endeavours to promote diversified economic development and devote sustained efforts to improve the well-being of our community. By capitalising on our distinctive advantages—the strong backing of the Motherland and extensive international connectivity—Hong Kong is poised to serve as a bridge linking Chinese and Western cultures, and to facilitate inter-civilisational dialogue and exchange, thereby contributing to the country's high-level opening up. Hong Kong's first Five-Year Plan, serving to proactively align with the strategic framework of the National 15th Five-Year Plan, will help the territory fully integrate into and serve the nation's overall development, while driving its active participation in, and contribution to, the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

Dr LAI Ka-ying, a Hong Kong native, has been chosen to serve on the Shenzhou-23 manned spaceflight mission, making her the first locally nurtured research scientist to journey into orbit. This signal honour attests to the country's staunch support for and profound trust in Hong Kong, and provides tangible demonstration of our distinctive advantages—namely, a solid scientific research foundation and a deep reservoir of talent. So long as we, the people of Hong Kong, preserve our unity of purpose and our dedication to self-strengthening, we will undoubtedly be able to channel our collective efforts into a powerful driving force, rendering more substantial contributions to the country's modernisation endeavours and jointly inaugurating a glorious future.

To celebrate National Day with the entire city and foster a strong sense of belonging to our country, the HKSAR Government will, in collaboration with various sectors of the community, organise a wide array of celebratory events in the 18 districts. We cordially invite all members of the public to join us in celebrating this auspicious occasion. May our country enjoy enduring prosperity, peace and stability.