Two decades into reunification with China, Hong Kong's “One Country, Two Systems” policy has become a political reality, but the political system is still evolving and adapting.

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When I came to Hong Kong two decades ago as a tourist, I saw how it was busy and promising in an unfamiliar atmosphere. I felt connected yet struggled to get close. In 2007, I was here as well, reporting on the 10-year anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to China. The region was flourishing and Hong Kong was embracing the developing mainland. Tourists from the mainland were everywhere. Yet the city’s residents were still dealing with barriers accepting its nationality.

“Are you a TV guy as well?” I got such a question from a colleague working for Hong Kong’s local television brand, TVB, a decade ago.

“Yes, I am,” I answered.

“Are you from China?”

“I’m from the Chinese mainland.”

Hong Kong was apart from China so long that locals found it hard to recognize themselves as Chinese.

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Taking politics to the streets might attract eyeballs but it won't solve any problems. Both the Hong Kong government and the central government should listen to different opinions, and I believe they do.

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Politics is always the art of the possible.

Just before 20th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to China, I came to this land again, and found clues everywhere left by the huge impact led by China’s economic development. Any change could evoke maladjustment and I am watching Hong Kong re-positioning itself in the huge economic body China represents.

I was jogging along the Peak, feeling like I was running through the experience of Hong Kong’s return to China. The path was gently inclined at first, as Hong Kong just set its course upon returning, filled with curiosity and hope. Even challenges and dilemma, SARS and economic crisis could not beat the positiveness embedded in people’s minds on this land. I paced up then, moving faster with more expectations as the inclination became steep. My breath became heavy and my steps slowed. It was like today’s Hong Kong as more obstacles came in the path to great achievements.

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Today’s Hong Kong is challenged with complex contrasts and confusions. But the city’s residents have proved their potential to take on difficulties. So I climbed on, encouraged by the same spirit that has driven the people who have defined this land.

About Zou Yue and his program

Zou became a correspondent for CCTV in August 2003. He became the lead anchor for CCTV International in 2009. Since 2010, he has been the anchor of China 24, a news magazine show on CCTV NEWS, the predecessor of CGTN.

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Zou has covered many major events across China, including Hong Kong and Macao’s return to China, the country’s first manned space flight, Beijing Olympics, Wenchuan earthquake, Shenzhou and Chang’e Space Missions, APEC summit in Beijing, G20 Meeting in Hangzhou and annual meetings of China’s National People’s Congress.

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For the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong's handover, Zou is taking part in a week-long special series of programs in Hong Kong with CGTN's Liu Xin and Cheng Lei, inviting guests from all walks of life for an in-depth look at both the opportunities and challenges faced by Hong Kong, as it serves as a bridge connecting the Chinese mainland with the world.