Transcript of remarks by CE in video on national security legislation in Hong Kong (with photo/video)
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Chief Executive: Hong Kong is an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China. As a Special Administrative Region (SAR) directly under the Central People's Government, Hong Kong enjoys a high degree of autonomy under "One Country, Two Systems".
Over the past year, the Hong Kong community has been traumatised. Violence by rioters has escalated, with illegal firearms and explosives posing a terrorist threat. Groups and individuals advocating "Hong Kong independence" and colluding with foreign forces to interfere with Hong Kong's affairs have seriously undermined national interests and security. Hong Kong has become a gaping hole in national security, and our city's prosperity and stability are at risk.
Sadly, there is now little hope of the Hong Kong SAR enacting local laws to safeguard national security. Against this background, the Central Authorities have no option but to exercise their constitutional power to establish and improve the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for the Hong Kong SAR to safeguard national security. This is a decision not taken lightly.
The national security legislation will only target an extremely small minority of illegal and criminal acts and activities, while the life and property, basic rights and freedoms of the overwhelming majority of citizens will be protected. Above all, it will restore stability in Hong Kong.
I appeal for your full understanding and staunch support for putting in place national security legislation in Hong Kong.
Ends/Monday, June 15, 2020
Issued at HKT 19:29
Issued at HKT 19:29
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