CE welcomes passage of Decision on establishing and improving legal system and enforcement mechanisms for HKSAR to safeguard national security by NPC
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I welcome the passage of the Decision by the NPC. The HKSAR is an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China. Safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests is the constitutional duty of the HKSAR and concerns every Hong Kong citizen.
Given the difficulty of the executive and legislative authorities of the HKSAR to complete on their own legislation to safeguard national security in the foreseeable future, there is the need and the urgency for the passage of the Decision by the NPC to establish and improve the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for Hong Kong to safeguard national security at the state level. It also shows the care of the country towards the HKSAR. Nevertheless, we understand that the HKSAR still has the legal responsibility to enact legislation in accordance with Article 23 of the Basic Law and should complete the legislation to safeguard national security as soon as possible.
The HKSAR Government will fully co-operate with the Standing Committee of the NPC to complete the relevant work on legislation as soon as possible and proactively reflect the detailed situation in Hong Kong during the process. We will also proactively explain the objective and the importance of the legislation to various sectors. As required by the Decision, the HKSAR Government will enhance enforcement and public education in relation to safeguarding national security, and report regularly to the Central People's Government.
The legislation to be enacted for the HKSAR to safeguard national security aims to prevent, curb and sanction an extremely small minority of criminals who threaten national security, safeguarding the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong and maintaining "One Country, Two Systems". It will not affect the legitimate rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong residents. "One Country, Two Systems" has been Hong Kong's top advantage, and a stable and safe society will provide a favourable business and investment environment. This will help better Hong Kong's development down the road. I strongly believe that various sectors of society will lend their full support for the legislation.
Ends/Thursday, May 28, 2020
Issued at HKT 16:34
Issued at HKT 16:34
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