Protecting national security seen as key to Hong Kong’s stability

Safeguarding national security is crucial for Hong Kong to fully implement the “one country, two systems” governing principle and ensure the city’s stability, which will aid its development and attract foreign investors.That was the key takeaway from a high-level meeting hosted by Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu on Saturday to discuss a white paper issued by Beijing earlier this week, only the third such report released by the State Council on local affairs since 2014.It focused on Hong Kong’s obligation in protecting national security under the one country, two systems framework, stressing it was a “long-term and enduring task”.“In addition to the central government bearing fundamental responsibility for national security matters in Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region must earnestly fulfil its constitutional responsibility to safeguard national security, and the government and all sectors of society must actively fulfil the practical requirements,” Lee said.He noted the white paper was released on Tuesday, a day after former media boss Jimmy Lai Chee-ying was sentenced to 20 years in prison for national security crimes.“We must deeply summarise our experiences and lessons, remain vigilant against national security risks at all times and do a good job in safeguarding national security in Hong Kong in all aspects,” Lee said.