Beijing establishes the first patriotic education base for Hong Kong and Macau youth, with Chief Secretary for Administration Eric Chan Kwok-ki praising it as an important platform for enhancing national sentiment.
The official described the move as one of profound historical significance, which aims to strengthen national identity among young people and open a new chapter in patriotic education.
Attending the launch ceremony, Chan expressed gratitude for the central government’s support in advancing patriotic education in Hong Kong.
He emphasized the importance of establishing the base at the Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, located near the historic Lugou Bridge (Marco Polo Bridge) where the war against Japanese aggression broke out.
Chan noted that the Lugou Bridge symbolizes the beginning of China’s nationwide resistance against invasion, a struggle in which the Chinese people united under the Anti-Japanese National United Front to reclaim their homeland.
He described the site as emblematic of the sacrifices made by the Chinese nation and the patriotic spirit essential to the country’s rejuvenation.
He highlighted the shared role played by all Chinese, including compatriots from Hong Kong, during the war, reflecting a common responsibility for the nation’s destiny.
Chan compared the victory in the War of Resistance to a turning point in China’s development and likened the new education base to a milestone in promoting patriotism in Hong Kong.
The base will offer study tours and cultural exchanges designed to enhance the patriotic spirit among the youth and deepen their sense of national and ethnic identity.
Chan referred to the history of the War of Resistance as a vital textbook on patriotism and expressed hope that young visitors and educators would draw inspiration from it in contributing to the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
He also voiced support for the development of additional patriotic education resources throughout the country. The ceremony was attended by senior officials, underscoring the significance of the initiative.
