Amid a spectacular fireworks display, former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher on Sunday opened the world's longest rail-and-road suspension bridge, a symbol of Hong Kong's vibrant economy in the waning days of British rule.
The 1.36 mile-long Tsing Ma bridge links the Hong Kong mainland to Lantau Island and the islet of Chek Lap Kok, where a $21 billion airport is to open next year. Its main span is 4,475 feet long.Thatcher said there was no better symbol than the bridge of "the boldness, the vision and the energy of the people of Hong Kong."
She urged those who questioned whether Hong Kong would continue to prosper in the future to "come and see this bridge, one of the foremost monuments of our time, and put your confidence in the people who built it."
Thatcher signed the 1984 agreement with China that returns this British colony to Chinese sovereignty on July 1.
About 20 people protesting China's decision to abolish Hong Kong's present legislature after the handover demonstrated nearby.
Shipping tycoon Tung Chee-hwa, who will be Hong Kong's post-colonial leader, said he decided not to attend the ceremony because it was more important for him to meet Chinese officials in the neighboring city of Guangzhou to discuss the influx of illegal immigrants into Hong Kong.
Large crowds jammed areas near the bridge to watch fireworks flash in the night sky.