A group of prominent women from Hong Kong and China's mainland gathered in Hong Kong on October 3 evening to celebrate the 50th birthday of New China.

　 Participants were treated with colorful performances by some local singers and dancers at the gathering, which was broadcast live by the Television Broadcasting Limited.

　 Peng Peiyun, vice-chairperson of the Standing Committee of the Ninth National People's Congress and president of All-China Women' s Federation, and her party, who are here on a special visit, attended the gathering.

　 "We are very pleased to get together with sisters of Hong Kong to celebrate the 50th founding anniversary of the People's Republic of China," Peng said.

　 The Chinese women have won the historic liberation over the past 50 years and they have played a key role in building China into a strong and prosperous country, she said.

　 Peng added that women in Hong Kong have made great contributions to promoting the Hong Kong's return to the motherland and reunification of the nation as well as the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong.

　 She also urged women in Hong Kong and China's mainland to enhance coordination and exchange in all fields and make common progress.

　 Peggy Lam, chairperson of the Hong Kong Federation of Women, also spoke at the gathering, saying that her association will redouble the efforts to protect the lawful rights of women and initiate more activities to contribute to the community. (Xinhua)