Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor delivers a speech during a reception in celebration of the 71st anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, at the Grand Hall of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Oct 1, 2020. (PHOTO / CHINA DAILY)

HONG KONG - The nation has always stood staunchly by Hong Kong's side, whether the city is embracing opportunities for development or facing hard times, Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor said at a National Day reception on Thursday.

HK celebrated the 71st anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China on Oct 1 while fully respecting the anti-COVID social distancing rules currently in place. 

In her keynote address, Lam cited the central authorities’ help in combating the virus, including assistance in bringing back home Hong Kong people stranded overseas. She also spoke with gratitude about the central government's arrangement to supply medical protective equipment and its help in organizing a citywide virus testing program as also in the current contruction of a temporary hospital.

The nation has always stood staunchly by Hong Kong's side, whether the city is embracing opportunities for development or facing hard times, Chief Executive Carrie Lam said

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After a flag-raising ceremony, Lam, other high-ranking government officials from the special administrative region (SAR) government, as well as representatives from central government’s agencies in Hong Kong, attended the reception at Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai.

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Noting that Hong Kong is recovering from a third wave of infections, Lam said the city has seen a return to stability in the past three months since the National Security Law was enacted and took effect in Hong Kong.

Lam said she and other SAR government officials were fearless in the face of “so-called sanctions” and “unfounded accusations” leveled by foreign governments which have criticized Hong Kong’s National Security Law.

Lam said her government will steadfastly safeguard national security and hoped that Hong Kong people would embrace opportunities brought about by national development.