Hong Kong’s stability safeguarded by law

The white paper, titled “Hong Kong: Safeguarding China’s National Security Under the Framework of One Country, Two Systems”, released by the State Council Information Office on Tuesday underscores the necessity of creating a “legal shield” to effectively guard against threats posed by external and internal forces seeking to destabilize the special administrative region.

The document makes it clear that the SAR government’s implementation of the National Security Law has been pivotal in ensuring the SAR’s long-term stability and prosperity, as well as the success of the “one country, two systems” policy.

In recent years, Hong Kong has faced grave national security challenges. The unrest fueled by anti-China elements in 2019, in particular, exposed some legal gaps and systemic weaknesses in Hong Kong’s national security framework. It was under such circumstances that The Law of the People’s Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region was introduced.

The implementation of the National Security Law effectively filled the legal void that had existed in Hong Kong, by establishing a comprehensive legal framework to prevent and punish any acts that endanger national security and public order in the SAR.

It is not a coincidence that the paper was released just a day after a Hong Kong court sentenced former media tycoon Jimmy Lai to 20 years in prison following his conviction under the National Security Law in Hong Kong for serious criminal conduct, including collusion with foreign forces seeking to destabilize China. The legal action taken against him not only underscores the commitment of the SAR government to uphold the rule of law, but also sends a strong and clear warning to those who still seek to engage in activities that threaten national security.

There is no denying that the achievements made in safeguarding national security in Hong Kong have effectively curbed the destabilizing activities of anti-China forces that had been trampling on the rule of law in the SAR. Acts and activities endangering national security have been effectively prevented and their perpetrators punished, ensuring that Hong Kong residents’ legitimate rights are better protected in a secure environment. Having bid farewell to chaos and unrest that had a severe impact on the daily lives and livelihoods of Hong Kong residents, the SAR is enjoying peace, order and vibrancy, and it has once again become one of the safest cities in the world.

The white paper also points out that safeguarding national security is essential for the continued success of the “one country, two systems” framework. By implementing the National Security Law, the central government has reaffirmed its trust and support for Hong Kong while clarifying the constitutional responsibilities of the SAR in safeguarding national security. This alignment of responsibilities between the central and SAR governments provides a robust foundation for the successful advancement of the “one country, two systems” framework in Hong Kong.

Moreover, the implementation of the National Security Law has consolidated the security foundation of Hong Kong’s governance model, by ensuring that the SAR is governed by patriots who prioritize the well-being of its residents. This approach has proved to be a necessary step to ensure that Hong Kong’s governance remains aligned with national interests, while eliminating the possibility of anti-China elements infiltrating the SAR’s governance structures.

The introduction of the National Security Law has been a major innovation in the practice of “one country, two systems” policy and is of profound and practical significance. It safeguards national sovereignty, security and development interests while providing solid assurance for Hong Kong’s long-term prosperity and stability. This ensures that Hong Kong will continue to progress steadily toward a bright future.

[Abridged]

Editorial, China Daily