Third, this law is the protector of Hong Kong's prosperity and stability.
Although Hong Kong was under British rule for over 150 years, the city didn't begin to really thrive until the 1980s. It is a thought-provoking fact. One of the most important things we've concluded is that Hong Kong must rely closely on the Chinese mainland and connect with the rest of the world; consolidate its status as an international financial, trade and shipping center; and make use of its unique status and advantages to serve the country's reform and opening-up and modernization drive, thus better interacting with the Chinese mainland and other countries. This is of key importance to Hong Kong's prosperity and stability. If we sit back and let various anti-China and separatist forces stir storms in Hong Kong and even turn the city into a base to launch penetrative and subversive activities against the Chinese mainland, it will by no means be a blessing but a misfortune for Hong Kong, and it will destroy not only the "one country, two systems", but also Hong Kong's prosperity and stability and the well-being of its residents. This law, which will only target a tiny number of criminals endangering national security, will serve as a "sharp sword" hanging over their heads to deter any external forces that interfere in Hong Kong affairs. The law will fully protect not only the life and property and the various rights and freedoms of the vast majority of Hong Kong residents, but also the legitimate rights and interests of foreign investors in Hong Kong. Therefore, the law will stabilize Hong Kong's prosperity and stability.
Fourth, this law is a turning point for Hong Kong to get back to the right track.
A week ago, at a seminar in Hong Kong to solicit opinions on the draft of the law, Hong Kong people from all walks of life, including businessmen, professionals, schoolmasters and taxi drivers, expressed their dismay at the turbulence and chaos triggered by the now-withdrawn extradition bill last June. Some of them still feel disheartened. They said, some Hong Kong residents want to emigrate because they fear violence and riots and see no way out. A member of Hong Kong's Legislative Council told me that one of his good friends recently applied for immigration to Singapore and got his application approved. However, when he learnt that the country was in the process of drafting a law on safeguarding national security in Hong Kong, he tore his application paper into pieces right away and exclaimed with excitement, "there is way out for Hong Kong." At the seminar, many Hong Kong friends expressed the same view. It is high time for Hong Kong to turn chaos into order and emerge stronger. I believe this law can turn things around and produce game-changing effects. In a word, this very law can help restore order in Hong Kong.
Just as Mr. Shen said just now, today is also the 99th founding anniversary of the CPC. The CPC has not only created the grand vision of "one country, two systems", but also steadfastly steered the ship of "one country, two systems" to break the waves. I remember that ever after the "one country, two systems" principle was proposed, there were more than one waves of emigration and divestment, but all the fears and misgivings have been erased by time and facts. The introduction of this law today will probably fuel misgivings and uncertainties among some people, which is normal. But I firmly believe that time and facts will prove us right. On the 23rd anniversary of the establishment of the HKSAR, we have sent Hong Kong a "birthday present" in the form of this law. It will surely continue to show its precious value.
That's all I'll say for now, thank you all.
