Interpretation of Hong Kong Basic Law comes at right time: spokesperson

BEIJING - A spokesperson with the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council on Monday issued a statement hailing the adoption of an interpretation of Article 104 of the Basic Law of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) as "absolutely necessary" and timely.

"The interpretation demonstrates the central government's firm determination and will in opposition of 'Hong Kong independence,'" the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson went on to say that the interpretation, which was adopted at the bimonthly session of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, which concluded Monday, "underscores the authority of the Basic Law and the rule of law in Hong Kong" and "complies with the common aspirations of all Chinese people, including our compatriots in Hong Kong."

The spokesperson said that the interpretation, issued by the top legislature following the behavior of a handful of legislators-elect during the election of Hong Kong's Legislative Council (LegCo) and the subsequent swearing-in ceremony, clarifies the implications and requirements of the oaths taken by legislators-elect.

Hong Kong is a local administrative region directly under the central government, the spokesperson confirmed, and the LegCo is a SAR legislative organ set up in accordance with the Hong Kong Basic Law.

"The interpretation of the Basic Law given by the NPC Standing Committee is the same as the law itself," the spokesperson added, stressing that relevant provisions in the Basic Law and its interpretation "must be implemented to the letter."

"Activities that advocate a splitting of the nation or 'Hong Kong independence' shall in no way be allowed," the spokesperson underscored.

The central government hopes people from all circles of life in Hong Kong will recognize the consequences of "Hong Kong independence" and protect the stability and development in Hong Kong, according to the spokesperson.

The central government is confident that LegCo will implement the "one country, two systems" principle and the Basic Law in a comprehensive and accurate manner, safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, and maintain long-term prosperity and stability in the SAR.