HK govt officials, lawmakers set off for Beijing’s Victory Day parade

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu led a delegation from the HKSAR to Beijing on Tuesday to participate in a series of events marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

The delegation, comprising approximately 360 individuals, departed in the morning.

Accompanying the Chief Executive and his wife, Janet Lam Lai-sim, were several high-ranking officials. The group included Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) Leung Chun-ying, Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po, Secretary for Justice Paul Lam Ting-kwok, Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration Cheuk Wing-hing, Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Alice Mak Mei-kuen, and Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui.

The delegation also features a significant legislative contingent, led by Legislative Council (LegCo) President Andrew Leung Kwan-yuen and including lawmakers such as Jeffrey Lam Kin-fung, Tommy Cheung Yu-yan, and Edward Lau Kwok-fan.

The broad composition of the delegation extends beyond government and legislative representatives.

It also includes members of the judiciary, district council representatives, patriotic personages who participated in the war effort, veterans and their descendants, as well as figures from various social sectors, including business and community groups.

Lawmaker Jeffrey Lam Kin-fung highlighted the significance of the large delegation.

He said the 300-strong delegation reflects the central government's high regard and special consideration for Hong Kong. He expressed anticipation for the opportunity to view the country's new military equipment during the visit, seeing it as a chance for in-depth learning. 

Lam also noted that the event should serve as a moment for Hong Kong citizens to deeply understand the suffering endured by the nation and Hong Kong during the war, drawing lessons to safeguard national security and uphold world peace.

Chief Executive John Lee is scheduled to return to Hong Kong on Thursday following the commemorations.