Hainan University (HNU) held its 12th Luminaries Lecture in Humanities & Social Sciences at the Siyuan Auditorium on the morning of March 24. Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, former Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), was invited to deliver a keynote speech titled Upholding and Advancing the Practice of “One Country, Two Systems’” in Hong Kong. The event was attended by Hong Kong celebrities, including Mr. Chan Ming Him, Denny, Honorary President of the Hong Kong Hainan Commercial Association (HKHNCA), and Ho Kwan Yung, Executive Vice President of the HKHNCA and Founder of Mighty Fountain Capital. Secretary of CPC HNU Committee Fu Xuanguo, HNU President Luo Qingming, also a member of CAS, and other senior HNU leaders were also in attendance. Fu Xuanguo presided over the event.

Lecture venue (Photo courtesy of the Publicity Department)

In her speech, Carrie Lam first reviewed the development of HKSAR and the background of “One Country, Two Systems” policy with an introduction of the constitutional order of HKSAR and the Chief Executive’s constitutional role, and then expounded on the upholding and improvement of the policy, the new phase for its implementation, and Hong Kong’s mission and responsibilities. Lam noted that, under the strong leadership and support of the central government, Hong Kong has transitioned from instability to stability by adhering to the Constitution of the People’s Republic of China and the Basic Law of HKSAR. Looking ahead, she said that the city is now poised to embark on a new chapter of long-term stability and prosperity.

Carrie Lam delivering the lecture (Photo courtesy of the Publicity Department)

She reaffirmed that the “One Country, Two Systems” policy has been a cornerstone of Hong Kong’s stability and growth. She emphasized that Hong Kong’s century-long development stands as proof that this policy can best serve the interests of China, the Chinese people, and Hong Kong itself. Lam stressed the importance of upholding the principle of “patriots governing Hong Kong” to ensure its sustainable and steady implementation. She called for a balanced approach—strengthening national unity while leveraging Hong Kong’s unique advantages, maintaining high-level security while driving economic development, enhancing regional and global connectivity, and fostering inclusivity and social harmony.

Fu Xuanguo making remarks (Photo courtesy of the Publicity Department)

Fu Xuanguo extended a warm welcome to the Hong Kong delegation, emphasizing HNU’s commitment to national strategic initiatives and regional development, with a strong focus on deepening cooperation between Hainan and Hong Kong. He highlighted HNU’s longstanding ties with Hong Kong, noting that senior HNU leaders have led multiple delegations to visit Hong Kong universities. He also acknowledged HKHNCA’s invaluable support in talent nurturing, cultural exchanges, international collaboration, and campus development, which has significantly contributed to HNU’s growth. Looking forward, Fu stated that HNU will align closely with national strategies and the needs of both regions, deepening bilateral cooperation in education, scientific research, talent development and cultural exchange.

Lecture venue (Photo courtesy of the Publicity Department)

The lecture attracted a packed and attentive audience. A lively Q&A session followed, covering topics such as exchanges between young people in Hong Kong and the Mainland, as well as Hong Kong’s experience in free trade port development. Sharing her insights and experiences, Lam offered detailed answers and drew repeated applause from the audience.

Q&A session (Photo courtesy of the Publicity Department)

Over 2000 people attended the event in person or online, including representatives from HKHNCA, heads of HNU’s departments concerned, as well as faculty and student representatives from all HNU campuses and science & education parks.

Translated by Han Yunsheng

Proofread by Kuang Xiaowen, Yang Jie