Xi Jinping Praises Hong Kong for Article 23 Security Law and Pledges Support for John Lee’s Economy Boost
Chinese leader Xi Jinping has commended Hong Kong for enacting additional security legislation earlier this year and vowed Beijing’s unwavering support for the city’s economic progress. During a meeting on Friday, Xi met with Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee, who was on his annual duty visit to Beijing at the central government’s headquarters in Zhongnanhai.
Xi Jinping Lauds Hong Kong’s Progress
Xi Jinping praised Lee’s administration for successfully passing the city’s second security law, known as Article 23, addressing local issues such as housing and healthcare, and enhancing Hong Kong’s international connections. Despite criticisms from foreign entities, politicians, and non-governmental organizations regarding the swift enactment of Article 23, local authorities embraced the move.
“Xi Jinping reiterated Beijing’s commitment to implementing the One Country, Two Systems framework diligently, accurately, and decisively,” said the Chinese leader in Mandarin, underscoring the governance structure in place since Hong Kong’s Handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997.
Support for Economic Development
Furthermore, Xi expressed full support for Lee’s government in uniting various sectors to drive reforms, actively participating in national strategies, fostering new momentum and advantages for economic growth, promoting stability and prosperity through innovation, and contributing to Hong Kong’s overall success and stability.
Lee’s Economic Challenges
Chief Executive John Lee, who assumed office uncontested in 2022, acknowledged that the current year marked a critical juncture for Hong Kong as his administration faced economic hurdles. With the city grappling with a third consecutive annual deficit surpassing HK$100 billion, more than double initial estimates, Finance chief Paul Lam attributed the economic slowdown to a sluggish property market, ongoing geopolitical tensions, and other uncertainties.
Strategies for Financial Recovery
In response to the economic challenges, Lee outlined a series of strategies to ensure a balanced budget in the coming years, emphasizing the importance of long-term planning and collaboration with the Central Government to navigate through the financial difficulties.
International Recognition and Concerns
While Hong Kong regained its status as the world’s freest economy in a recent global ranking, foreign governments like the UK and the US expressed concerns about the city’s focus on national security, highlighting potential risks for businesses operating in Hong Kong.
Meeting with Mainland Officials
During his visit to Beijing, Lee is expected to engage with other mainland officials alongside Chief Secretary Eric Chan, with discussions likely to focus on various aspects of governance and cooperation between Hong Kong and mainland China.
Criticism of Security Legislation
Despite the implementation of the homegrown Safeguarding National Security Ordinance and Article 23, both of which target a range of offenses, including external interference and espionage, the laws have faced criticism from rights groups, Western nations, and the UN for being overly broad and regressive. Authorities, however, defended the legislation as necessary to address national security concerns following the 2019 protests and unrest.
In conclusion, Xi Jinping’s meeting with John Lee underscores the ongoing collaboration between Beijing and Hong Kong in addressing security and economic challenges while navigating the complexities of international relations and global economic dynamics. As Hong Kong continues to chart its path forward, the city must balance its commitment to national security with its aspirations for economic growth and global recognition.
