Hong Kong Chronicles is published by the Hong Kong Chronicles Institute. With the guiding editorial principle of recounting historical facts without interpretation, the Institute's goal is to produce a comprehensive, systematic and objective record of Hong Kong's heritage and history.

Two Chinese-language volumes of the Hong Kong Chronicles, namely "Overview & Chronology" and "Hong Kong's Participation in National Reform and Opening-Up", have been published. The English version of "Overview & Chronology", which counts some 360 000 words and nearly 800 pages, has been presented to readers today.

Speaking at the launching ceremony, Lee said that reading the Hong Kong Chronicles will enhance understanding and appreciation of not only the nation's history, but also the future that offers wide-ranging opportunities for Hong Kong to take part in the nation's progress and development.

"As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the HKSAR's establishment, the publication of this first volume of the Hong Kong Chronicles in English is a fresh opportunity to tell the success story of Hong Kong,” he said.

He pointed out that Chinese President Xi Jinping acknowledged the favourable conditions and distinctive advantages of Hong Kong's close connection with the world market in his important speech on July 1.

"That means boosting our traditional strengths - as an international financial, shipping and trading centre, and as a regional centre for legal and dispute-resolution services. It also means developing our prowess in other areas as well. That includes rising as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange, an up-and-coming area accorded significance in the National 14th Five-Year Plan," Lee said.

"There will be a lot of exciting stories ahead of us and I cannot wait to enjoy them with you since we are, as I put it in my campaign slogan, 'Starting a New Chapter for Hong Kong Together,'" he added.