This year, 20 years later, China's newly elected general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, Xi Jinping, chose Guangdong and the delta as his first inspection tour destination.

He seemed determined to emphasise continuity in China's opening up and reform policy, and its modernisation and innovation drive.

During Deng's time, the Hong Kong factor of transplanting its factories to the delta was crucial to the country's opening up and reforming.

Xi's recently completed visit to Shenzhen and Guangzhou portrays a new era calling for Hong Kong's "soft power" skills and global connections to link up with Guangdong and the delta's large production potential to service the mainland and the global community in what is a win-win situation of mutual benefit.

Earlier this month in the Legislative Council, a motion of no confidence initiated by the democratic camp, accusing Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying of being untruthful and lacking in integrity regarding unauthorised structures at his Peak home, was voted down by the pro-government group.

Since taking office five months ago, C.Y. Leung has been working hard to show that he cares for the grass roots and average middle income families.

He has also tackled with determination other issues such as the environment, cross-border relations, and situations where Hong Kong citizens need urgent help.

The democratic camp will in all likelihood continue to harass and attack him in an attempt to force him out of office.

On his part, C.Y. could use the holiday season to focus on drafting his January Legco address regarding his vision for Hong Kong, and on implementing his election manifesto promises to lift Hong Kong people's living standards and their quality of life.