Li Keqiang, Premier of China, "Will Firmly Resist External Forces' Interference in Hong Kong Issues"

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang [Photo by Reuters]

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Byung-hee] Chinese Premier Li Keqiang stated on the 5th at the opening ceremony of the annual plenary session of the National People's Congress (NPC) government work report that China will "firmly oppose any external forces interfering in Hong Kong and Macau issues."

Recently, China has been strengthening its control over Hong Kong through measures such as implementing the Hong Kong National Security Law and pushing for amendments to the election law. The international community has viewed China unfavorably, accusing it of suppressing Hong Kong's freedom and democracy. The United Kingdom, which returned Hong Kong to China in 1987, recently issued special visas allowing Hong Kong residents to acquire British citizenship, causing conflicts with China.

Premier Li emphasized his firm stance in dealing with the international community's uncomfortable views.

Li stated, "We will faithfully adhere to the spirit of the 'one country, two systems' principle governing Hong Kong and Macau, which enjoy a high degree of autonomy," and added, "We will support the improvement of people's livelihoods and economic growth in the two regions to maintain their long-term prosperity and stability." Furthermore, he said, "We will enhance the systems and structures of the two Special Administrative Regions to enforce the Constitution and the Basic Law," and "We will ensure law enforcement to safeguard national security in the two regions."

Regarding Taiwan, Premier Li also said, "We oppose any separatist actions seeking Taiwan independence and maintain a high level of vigilance to firmly prevent them."

Li issued a warning concerning Taiwan, which has taken a confrontational stance against China since the administration of independence-leaning President Tsai Ing-wen.

He stated, "We must uphold the One-China principle, promote cross-strait relations and peaceful development, and advance national reunification," adding, "We are highly vigilant against and firmly suppress the divisive activities of Taiwan independence forces, and we must improve systems such as ensuring the welfare and equal treatment of Taiwan compatriots."

Premier Li also emphasized adherence to the "1992 Consensus," an agreement reached in 1992 based on the One-China principle, under which China and Taiwan seek to develop cross-strait relations.

He said, "We are committed to safeguarding the 1992 Consensus and the One-China principle, promoting peaceful development across the Taiwan Strait, and advancing reunification with China."