Xi vows support for long-term stability of HK

President Xi Jinping pledged support for Hong Kong's long-term prosperity, economic development and livelihood improvement, as Beijing continued to promote one country, two systems at the closing of the annual plenary session for China's top legislature yesterday.

Xi devoted one minute of his 16-minute speech to Hong Kong affairs, saying authorities will firmly advance one country, two systems and "the great cause of national reunification."

The mainland will support the development of the economy and livelihoods of Hong Kong and Macau so that the two SARs can better integrate into the nation's overall development plan, he said.

"Building a strong country cannot be separated from the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong and Macau," Xi said. "We must fully, accurately and firmly carry out the principles of one country, two systems and 'Hongkongers rule Hong Kong, Macanese rule Macau' with a high degree of autonomy."

Xi did not mention "patriots rule Hong Kong" - a term frequently used to highlight Hong Kong affairs - after the implementation of the national security law in 2020.

Xi also called for promoting the peaceful development of the relationship between the mainland and Taiwan by adhering to the party's "holistic strategy" in handling Taiwan affairs. Xi added: "We firmly oppose interference by external forces and separatist activities for 'Taiwan independence.'

"To realize the complete reunification of the motherland is the common aspiration of all the sons and daughters of China and is the meaning of national rejuvenation."

Xi said the country must advance science and technology to enhance self-reliance as he stressed the importance of national security.

"We should advance the modernization of the military and turn the People's Liberation Army into a Great Wall of steel that safeguards China's sovereignty and development interests," he said, while adding that China will further open up to the world and utilize the global market for development.

Xi, who was confirmed for a third five-year term as president on Saturday, said people's trust motivates them to fulfill their duty and devote themselves to the country.

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, who was at the closing ceremony, said he was "most encouraged" by Xi's speech.

As an "inalienable part of China," Hong Kong has always been a witness, participant and contributor in the concerted efforts of advancing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, Lee said. He also said Politburo Standing Committee members Zhao Leji and Wang Huning attended meetings with Hong Kong deputies, demonstrating the central government's support for the city.

Hong Kong's new sole delegate to the National People's Congress Standing Committee, Starry Lee Wai-king, said Xi's speech offered "a jab in the arm" for Hong Kong's development.

"We NPC deputies and our patriots camp should work together to make good use of the country's development strategies and opportunities to better develop our economy and improve citizens' livelihoods," she said, adding that Hong Kong will be able to make contributions to the country's plan to further develop science and technology.

Ma Fung-kwok, head of Hong Kong's NPC delegation, said Xi's speech shows his care for Hong Kong and that the SAR has to safeguard national security.

"If we don't do it right, we'll be a drag to the nation's development," he said.

NPC deputies Stanley Ng Chau-pei and Brave Chan Yung urged the government to push for the legislation of Basic Law Article 23, which is like "a vaccine to political viruses."

wallis.wang@singtaonewscorp.com