Chief Executive of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Carrie Lam on Thursday welcomed the adoption of the decision on establishing and improving the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for the HKSAR to safeguard national security.
The decision was adopted on Thursday at the closing meeting of the third annual session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC).
The HKSAR is an inalienable part of China, and safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests is the constitutional duty of the HKSAR, and concerns every Hong Kong resident, Lam said in a statement.
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 adoption 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, Lam said, adding 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 of the HKSAR and should complete the legislation to safeguard national security as soon as possible," Lam said.
Lam said the HKSAR government will fully cooperate 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 government," Lam said.
"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,'" said Lam.
It will not affect the legitimate rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong residents, she added.
"'One country, two systems' has been Hong Kong's top advantage, and a stable and safe society will provide a favorable 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," Lam said.
