Policy Address
3. Many sectors of our society have condemned the radical acts of rioters and supported the Government to strictly enforce the law to end violence. Various sectors have appealed to people with different political views to put aside differences, stop violence as soon as possible and restore calm in society. Apart from curbing illegal acts, supporting law enforcement by the Police Force and ensuring that government departments and public organisations will make full effort to reduce the impact on citizens, the Government strives to pursue other courses of action with a view to getting out of this impasse together with the community. More than a month ago, I announced the introduction of four actions, which included launching a diversified dialogue platform with a view to finding a way out for Hong Kong. The Policy Address delivered today outlines various measures to deal with issues of greatest public concern. Later, I will invite community leaders, experts and academics to conduct an in-depth and independent examination of the social conflicts in Hong Kong and the deep-seated problems that must be addressed.
4. I will adhere to the following principles, be it in handling the current major crisis or continuing to discharge our governance responsibilities. First, we will adhere to “One Country, Two Systems” and safeguard the rights and freedoms protected by the Basic Law. However, any acts that advocate Hong Kong’s independence and threaten the country’s sovereignty, security and development interests will not be tolerated. In the 22 years since Hong Kong returned to the Motherland, “One Country, Two Systems” has proven to be the best system for ensuring the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong. Our national leaders have made it clear on many occasions that “One Country, Two Systems” is a long-term national strategy in line with the fundamental interests of our country. The successful implementation of “One Country, Two Systems” is the common aspiration of our country, Hong Kong and people of the two places. Despite the stormy times and overwhelming difficulties Hong Kong is experiencing, I believe that so long as we accurately adhere to the principle of “One Country, Two Systems”, we will be able to get out of the impasse.
