Chief Executive John Lee today toured an exhibition on Zhejiang’s “Double Eight Strategy” and attended the opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games Hangzhou in the provincial capital.

Earlier in the day, Mr Lee attended a welcoming banquet hosted by President Xi Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan ahead of the opening ceremony.

He then proceeded to the Zhejiang Exhibition Hall to view the abovementioned exhibition, which marks the 20th anniversary of the implementation of the “Double Eight Strategy”.

The strategy for the future development of Zhejiang was proposed by President Xi during his tenure as Secretary of the CPC Zhejiang Provincial Committee in 2003. It identified Zhejiang’s eight strengths and established eight areas of development in light of these advantages, guiding the province on the path of reform, innovation and opening up.

The Chief Executive later attended the opening ceremony of the Asian Games at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre Stadium.

Noting that Hong Kong athletes have spared no effort in preparing for the Asian Games, Mr Lee said he hopes they can give of their best in each performance, while also enjoying the occasion.

He also encouraged Hong Kong people to keep abreast of developments in the games and to cheer on the national and Hong Kong teams.