China commemorates 20th anniversary of implementing HKSAR Basic Law

Deputy secretary-general of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee Li Fei, who is also chairman of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Basic Law Committee, presides over a high-ranking symposium commemorating the 20th anniversary of implementing the Basic Law of the HKSAR, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, May 27, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]

TO CORRECT MISINTERPRETATIONS

Noting that some people have developed misunderstanding of the policy of "one country, two systems" and the Basic Law, Zhang called for efforts in raising public awareness and correcting deliberate misinterpretation of the Basic Law.

"We should resolutely oppose statements and deeds that distort, challenge or even violate the Basic Law to uphold its unshakable authority," said Zhang.

Zhang also stressed that power exercised by the HKSAR is delegated by but not separated from the central government and under no circumstances should anyone be allowed to challenge the power of the central government in the name of a high degree of autonomy.

The political system of the HKSAR is neither one of separation of powers nor a legislative-led or judiciary-led system, but an executive-led system with the chief executive at its core, Zhang explained.

Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability can only be based on accurate understanding and strict and full implementation of the Basic Law, according to Song Zhe, deputy head of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council.

DEFENDING THE CONSTITUTION

National identity based on the Constitution is the core value for making and enforcing the Basic Law, said Han Dayuan, a law professor of Renmin University of China, urging efforts to promote the Constitution and make it a powerful guarantee for the prosperity, stability and sustainable development of Hong Kong.

Zhang also called for special attention on strengthening education of the young people in Hong Kong about the country's national conditions and the rule of law to instill in them a strong sense of national identity, of being Chinese and the rule of law.