China Daily Hong Kong Edition won 11 awards, including four top prizes, at the HK News Awards 2016, organized by the Newspaper Society of Hong Kong. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

HONG KONG — As the China Daily Hong Kong Edition, a leading English-language daily, marks its 20th anniversary on October 6, 2017, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor led the tributes to the newspaper's civic commitment and influential role in advancing the "one country, two systems" principle.

"Throughout the historic transformational period of the past two decades, China Daily Hong Kong Edition has earned the respect and loyalty of readers through its insightful commentary and reporting. The publication has established itself as an influential player in the city's vibrant media scene, which includes more than 80 international media groups operating in the city," wrote Lam in her message of congratulation marking China Daily's 20th anniversary in Hong Kong.

The occasion also drew high praise from many other most respected leaders in Hong Kong. They spoke of China Daily's leadership role in opening closer dialogue and cooperation, drawing together Hong Kong, the Chinese mainland and the entire Asia Pacific region.  

Tung Chee-hwa, vice-chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and the first chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), said in his congratulatory message that China Daily Hong Kong "has evolved in step with enormous changes taking place in global media and continues its efforts to remain ahead. The paper serves the local community and also enjoys a vast readership outside Hong Kong, through several platforms embracing traditional and new media. I am confident that China Daily will remain at the forefront, and will go from strength to strength in the coming years".

Leung Chun-ying, vice-chairman of the CPPCC and former chief executive of the Hong Kong SAR, also commended the paper, stating that over 20 years, "China Daily bridges over the language barrier to provide English language readers with first-hand information on China and hence foster better understanding of one-fifth of mankind." Leung expressed his confidence that China Daily Hong Kong would play an even more significant role in the future, as the Belt and Road Initiative evolves.