NPC chairman stresses constitutional education

Zhao Leji presides over the first meeting of executive chairpersons of the presidium at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, Saturday

Beijing has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the implementation of the ‘One country, two systems’ policy and enhancing constitutional education in Macau and Hong Kong, according to Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee.

During the second plenary meeting of the NPC on Saturday, Zhao delivered the legislature’s annual work report, highlighting efforts to uphold the authority of the Chinese Constitution in the two Special Administrative Regions (SARs).

The session was attended by President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, and other senior officials.

Reflecting on the legislature’s work in 2024, Zhao emphasized measures taken to reinforce constitutional oversight and ensure compliance with national laws.

He noted that education and public awareness campaigns regarding the Constitution had been expanded in both SARs, including field visits and symposiums for local deputies.

“[We have] ramped up education and publicity efforts regarding the Constitution in Hong Kong and Macau,” Zhao said, as cited in a report by The Standard.

The NPC Standing Committee has also increased efforts to promote international understanding of ‘One country, two systems.’ The report stated that Beijing had actively countered foreign criticisms and defended China’s sovereignty, security, and development interests in response to external political pressures.

Looking ahead, Zhao outlined the legislature’s priorities for 2025, stressing the need to maintain the constitutional order in Macau and Hong Kong as defined by the Constitution and the Basic Law.

Meanwhile, Macau Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference delegate Lao Nga-wong said Macau is an example of the successful implementation of the ‘One country, two systems’ policy.

“Macau should use its advantages in reinforcing connections with both the mainland and the world… and build the SAR into another international passage besides Hong Kong,” he said.

Last week, Xia Baolong, director of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, has urged both the Special Administrative Regions’ (SAR) delegates to fulfill their roles with a strong sense of duty while supporting their respective governments and advancing economic development.

In a statement, the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office said its director encouraged delegates to carry out their responsibilities with a “sense of responsibility and mission” while ensuring public concerns are effectively represented.

Xia emphasized the need for full support of the SAR administrations, calling on Hong Kong delegates to accelerate the city’s transition from stability to prosperity.

Meanwhile, he urged Macau representatives to focus on promoting moderate economic diversification to strengthen the region’s long-term development.

His remarks were made during a closed-door session with delegates from the two regions at the NPC. Staff Reporter