Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu expressed his warm welcome and pledged to fully support and implement the content and requirements of the white paper published by the State Council Information Office, titled "Hong Kong: Safeguarding China's National Security Under the Framework of One Country, Two Systems."
The white paper outlined five areas, covering Hong Kong's national security history, the central government's responsibility for national security matters concerning the city, the SAR's achievements in fulfilling its constitutional duties, the city's transition from disorder to stability, and the role of security in supporting long-term development.
The white paper traces Hong Kong's national security history from the colonial era through the post-handover period, stressing that the central government bears constitutional responsibility for safeguarding national security concerning Hong Kong amid multiple threats.
It describes that the national security "like air and sunshine", which "is often taken for granted, yet cannot be lived without", as "everyone is a stakeholder and beneficiary, and no one can be a mere spectator".
The paper stated that authorities must remain vigilant against what it described as "anti-China forces" seeking to undermine security under the guise of democracy, freedom and human rights, including alleged foreign interference.
The white paper states that Hong Kong does not pursue "absolute" or "generalized" security and has implemented provisions to protect human rights in accordance with the Basic Law and international covenants applicable to the city.
It adds that clear distinctions are maintained between criminal and non-criminal acts, and that individuals and organizations can exercise their lawful rights without interference.
"In the process of prosecuting those who endanger national security, the rights to defense and other litigation rights afforded by law to criminal suspects, defendants, and other participants in legal proceedings are fully guaranteed. Criminal suspects and defendants are entitled to a prompt and fair trial by judicial authorities," the document wrote.
"Respecting and protecting human rights is a salient feature and important experience of the HKSAR's efforts to safeguard national security and must be adhered to over the long term," the paper adds.
Hong Kong will definitely make new achievements and contribute more to the country
"In the new era, the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China with Xi Jinping at its core has fully, faithfully, and resolutely implemented the policy of One Country, Two Systems, emphasizing that its highest principle is to safeguard national sovereignty, security, and development interests," the white paper stresses.
It also states that Hong Kong's national security efforts are intended to uphold and advance the "One Country, Two Systems" policy, protect the fundamental human rights, dignity and well-being of the city's 7.5 million residents, and contribute to global peace and development.
Looking ahead, the paper says, "Hong Kong will fully leverage the strengths of One Country, Two Systems and better integrate into and contribute to China's overall development. As China advances its modernization drive to build itself into a great country and realize national rejuvenation, Hong Kong will definitely make new achievements and contribute more to the country."
