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Law interpretation necessary for national unity: experts

Xinhua, November 8, 2016 Adjust font size:

Experts on the Chinese mainland lauded the adoption of an interpretation of the Basic Law of Hong Kong SAR, saying that it came at the right time and is necessary to safeguard national unity and deter forces advocating "Hong Kong independence."

"The interpretation is of great and far-reaching significance for restoring political order and maintaining prosperity and stability in Hong Kong," said Qiang Shigong, a law professor at Peking University.

On Monday, China's top legislature adopted an interpretation of Article 104 of the Basic Law of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), clarifying the implications and requirements of the oaths taken by legislators-elect.

The interpretation was issued 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. These individuals had publicly voiced support for "Hong Kong independence," intentionally violated the oath and insulted the Chinese nation.

"The activities of those advocating 'Hong Kong independence' have breached the bottom line of the 'one country, two systems' principle and threatened national sovereignty, security and development," Qiang said, adding that such behavior must be stopped in a timely manner.

Qiang's comments were echoed by Li Shuzhong, vice president of the China University of Political Science and Law. "Upholding the 'one country, two systems' principle is the basis no matter who participates in politics in Hong Kong," Li said, adding that the foundation of political participation could be lost without the principle.

As officials in Hong Kong, bearing allegiance to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China, in accordance with the Basic Law, is a solemn requirement of the law and a basic political moral principle, Li added.

"The interpretation is imperative and will not interfere in the judicial independence of Hong Kong," said Qi Pengfei, director of the Hong Kong and Macao research center under Renmin University of China, adding that it is conducive to safeguarding the authority of the Basic Law, the rule of law in Hong Kong, as well as the fundamental interests of Hong Kong. Endi