'Lovely Hong Kong is back'

“Lovely Hong Kong” has returned as the city has gradually rejected political turbulence in the past year, says liaison office director Zheng Yanxiong.

Speaking at the launch of handover celebrations at Victoria Park yesterday, Zheng said people should be aware that the city can no longer go in the wrong direction and slip into chaos.

“Only by firmly maintaining the advantages of internationalization and integrating into the overall development of the country can Hong Kong enjoy strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world.”

He praised Hongkongers who never fear crises and change and believed the implementation of one country, two systems could be more steady with the support of the central government, protection of the Basic Law, joint efforts of the executive, legislature and judiciary, and  solidarity of all sectors of the community.

Zheng also affirmed the efforts made by Chief Executive John Lee and the SAR government in leading Hong Kong and enhancing its sense of security, gain and happiness, with the support of the central government.

A series of activities will be held in Victoria Park to celebrate the anniversary, including art installations and singing competitions.

Lee said Hong Kong society has been stable, with growing economic development after the national security law was implemented in the city three years ago. He added: “With the central government’s firm support and the dual protection of national security law and the principle of patriots ruling Hong Kong, the overall social stability, economic development and free and convenient business environment have continued to grow.”

But a government spokesman stressed that people must not let their guard down.

“They must remain vigilant at all times to prevent those who are opposed to China and attempt to destabilize Hong Kong from disrupting peace in society and endangering national security again,” the spokesman said.

He added acts of “soft resistance” are still creating conflicts and arousing “hatred” of central authorities and the SAR government, while some countries and external forces are undermining the stability of Hong Kong by slandering the national security law.

The spokesman said the SAR government will “resolutely, fully and faithfully implement the national security law,” and safeguard the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong people in accordance with the law to ensure the steadfast and successful implementation of one country, two systems.

A spokesman of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized some United States senators and the House of Commons of the United Kingdom who recently smeared the national security law and one country, two systems.

The spokesman described the national security law as a stabilizer which brought about a better rule of law and business environment and social unity to the city.

“Some American and British politicians ignored the facts and maliciously slandered Hong Kong’s bright future, denigrated the rule of law in Hong Kong, reflecting their intentions of using Hong Kong to contain China.”

Chief Secretary for Administration Eric Chan Kwok-ki wrote on Facebook that the implementation of the national security law had created a safe and stable social environment.

stacy.shi@singtaonewscorp.com