Mainland bodies cheer passage of Article 23 laws
Mainland authorities on Tuesday congratulated the SAR on enacting Article 23 national security legislation, saying this is a milestone in the development of the One Country, Two Systems principle. In a statement, the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office said the SAR has fulfilled the wish of all Chinese people – including those in Hong Kong – by fulfilling its constitutional duty to safeguard national security. "To protect national security is to protect 'One Country, Two Systems', Hong Kong's prosperity and stability, the interests of foreign investors, Hong Kong's democracy and freedom, and the human rights and fundamental well-being of all Hong Kong residents," it said. "The enactment and implementation of the Hong Kong national security ordinance will further consolidate the foundation for Hong Kong's development and accelerate the transition from governance to prosperity." The Commissioner's Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong likened the legislation to a suit of armour that will support the SAR's prosperous development. It added that Hong Kong will shine even brighter with the staunch support of the nation, while railing against those who would denigrate the new laws. "The despicable attempts to discredit the Article 23 legislation and smear the 'One Country, Two Systems' principle cannot incite the clear-minded Hong Kong residents, confuse wise people in the international community, or block Hong Kong's transition from governance to prosperity," it said. Meanwhile, the Liaison Office said the legislation strikes a balance between protecting national security and human rights. It added the smooth passage of the bill shows that Hong Kong is now governed by patriots. It also said the government had actively consulted the public in the process while the legislature vetted it in a transparent and rigorous manner.