Hong Kong Launches National Security Education Day to Promote Awareness and Unity

HKSAR organises activities for 2025 National Security Education Day (with photos/video)

The following is issued on behalf of the Committee for Safeguarding National Security of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region:

Launched today (April 15) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the National Security Education Day activities were hosted by the Committee for Safeguarding National Security of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (the Hong Kong National Security Committee) and supported by the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (LOCPG) and the Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (OSNS). The Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council Mr Xia Baolong officiated at the opening ceremony of the National Security Education Day via video. Officiating guests attending the opening ceremony were the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Chairman of the Hong Kong National Security Committee, Mr John Lee; Director of LOCPG and National Security Advisor of the Hong Kong National Security Committee, Mr Zheng Yanxiong; Head of OSNS, Mr Dong Jingwei; Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the HKSAR, Mr Cui Jianchun; and Political Commissar of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Hong Kong Garrison, Navy Rear Admiral Lai Ruxin.

In his keynote speech delivered via video at the opening ceremony, Director Xia Baolong said that over the past decade, China had achieved historic successes in national security work, and Hong Kong had gone through an extraordinary journey from chaos to governance and then from governance to greater prosperity. History and reality tell us that external forces' attempts to destabilise Hong Kong and use it to contain China will not change and can never succeed; the Chinese people will never accept bullying, and all Chinese people, including Hong Kong compatriots, cannot be intimidated or overwhelmed; Hong Kong compatriots have a long-standing tradition of patriotism and love for Hong Kong, and those who betray the Motherland and Hong Kong will never have a good ending.

Director Xia pointed out that currently, the practice of "one country, two systems" has entered a new stage. The good situation in Hong Kong today has come at a great cost and should be treasured. We must consolidate and develop this good situation. We must face the problems related to the development and security in Hong Kong, be vigilant and stay united. Every individual, group, enterprise and organisation needs to work together with Hong Kong compatriots and all Chinese people to defend Hong Kong and the country, ensure high-quality development with high-level security, and promote the steady and sustained practice of "one country, two systems".

Director Xia mentioned three "beliefs". It is believed that the national security institutions of the HKSAR will resolutely shoulder the sacred mission of maintaining national security and further strengthen the solid barrier for national security. It is believed that all sectors of Hong Kong society can actively fulfil their obligation to maintain national security and jointly protect their beautiful home - Hong Kong. It is believed that the business community and entrepreneurs can make Hong Kong their home, build their businesses, and contribute to both Hong Kong and the country with more practical actions.

Director Xia pointed out, "Many public officials in Hong Kong have been unreasonably sanctioned by the United States for their work in maintaining national security, but they are not afraid, are working steadfastly to fulfil their duties, and are willing to sacrifice their own interests for the benefit of the country. They take concrete actions to love and protect the country and Hong Kong, and I am proud of them,"

"It is hoped that Hong Kong's business community and entrepreneurs will continue to play a leading role in driving economic development, carry forward the fine tradition of patriotism and love for Hong Kong, correctly understand the relationship between their own enterprises and the development of both Hong Kong and the nation, and always uphold righteousness and never forget national interests."

Mr Lee expressed his gratitude to Director Xia Baolong for his care, guidance and support for Hong Kong all along. Mr Lee said, "The inspiring speech by Director Xia reminds us to not forget the past and to be vigilant about national security risks. We must also resolutely uphold national security and ensure the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong further."

At the opening ceremony, Mr Lee said, "The world is undergoing unprecedented changes at an accelerating pace. Hong Kong will face increasingly turbulent risks to national security in the future. We must remain vigilant, as the aftermath of the 2019 'black-clad' violence has not yet ended. Anti-China subversive forces in Hong Kong continue to attempt a resurgence, engaging in 'soft resistance' and inciting hatred and resentment,"

"Moreover, the United States' wanton suppression of China and the HKSAR has become increasingly fanatical. In the face of the United States' unbridled hegemonism, the HKSAR fully supports our country's efforts to respond to the United States' challenges, to defend China's legitimate rights and interests, and to uphold international fairness and justice. At the same time, Hong Kong is committed to maintaining its status as a free port with virtually zero tariffs and pursuing open and free trade. With the resilience, adaptability, and indomitable spirit of the Hong Kong people, the city will once again navigate through adversity and emerge stronger, proving its worth as like pure gold standing the test of fire,"

"The international landscape is complex and fast changing, and threats to national security can appear suddenly. We must always stay vigilant and, when embracing immense challenges, be prepared in the following four areas: (1) resolutely, fully and faithfully implement the 'one country, two systems' principle; (2) thoroughly implement the holistic approach to national security; (3) continuously improve the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security; (4) actively promote by way of education across society the need to safeguard national security of our own accord."

"The SAR government will fulfil its constitutional responsibility to safeguard national security, effectively resolve the conflicts and problems in the course of development and reforms, proactively identify, adapt to, and drive changes, deepen international exchanges and cooperation, and actively integrate into the broader national development landscape. At the same time, it will properly deal with all complex situations, spare no efforts in safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests, and make greater contributions to the building of a strong country and the great rejuvenation of the nation."

In his speech, Director Zheng emphasised the need to further strengthen the foundation for the awareness of safeguarding national security; to better coordinate high-quality development with high-level security; and to actively pursue Hong Kong's important mission in this new stage.

"If our security foundations are not firmly supported or are unstable, our development will be precarious and will risk collapsing. Likewise, if we delay or neglect development, the foundation for our security will also become unstable. We must resolutely coordinate high-quality development with high-level security, and safeguard and advance the blossoming prospect and positive atmosphere that Hong Kong has been hard winning,"

"It is essential to remember that building and developing Hong Kong well is, in itself, a powerful contribution to Chinese-style modernisation."

In his speech, Director Dong Jingwei stated, "We must not forget the painful scenes and lessons related to the proposed legislative amendments to the Fugitive Offenders Ordinance, and we must remain clear-eyed about the ever-changing and complex national security landscape while firmly establishing the belief that 'development is one overriding principle; security is another',"

"National security has never been a blessing from others. Flattery leads nowhere; submission has no future; and pleading only guarantees elimination,"

"On this new journey in the new era, Hong Kong's national security work requires strategic confidence, a firm belief in victory, and a strong hold on the strategic initiative in safeguarding national security."

Commissioner Cui Jianchun stated in his speech that the United States prioritises its own interests above the common good of the international community, and such zero-sum mentality engenders division and confrontation, bringing significant instability and uncertainty to the world.

"I believe Hong Kong can proactively adapt to changes and seize opportunities, fully leveraging the core advantages of 'one country, two systems' and its role as a bridge connecting domestic and global markets. By steadfastly utilising its unique status as a free port, Hong Kong can make distinctive contributions to upholding the multilateral trading system and promoting the building of a shared future for the neighbouring communities!"

Rear Admiral Lai Ruxin in his speech said that since its stationing in Hong Kong, the Garrison has been resolutely implementing the "one country, two systems" principle, the Basic Law of the HKSAR, and the Garrison Law, and firmly safeguarding the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong.

"All officers and soldiers of the Hong Kong Garrison will remain unwavering in following the Party's command, enhancing combat readiness training, sincerely caring for Hong Kong and its people, and resolutely upholding national sovereignty, security, and Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability."

The HKSAR Government has been comprehensively promoting national security education through creative approaches with rich content. In August last year, the National Security Exhibition Gallery (the Gallery) was established, which is the first thematic gallery in the HKSAR dedicated to the systematic promotion of national security education, and also the first national security education base in the HKSAR. In just eight months since its opening, the Gallery has already registered over 600000 visits. To mark the 10th National Security Education Day this year, the Gallery launched a thematic exhibition last month to reflect on the development of national security education advanced by both the country and the HKSAR Government over the years. In addition, the National Security Education District Tutor Training Scheme started in November last year. So far, about 3000 district tutors have completed the training and have shared national security messages with over 120000 people in the communities. In this academic year, the "Territory-wide Inter-school National Security Knowledge Challenge" has, for the first time, introduced an English section for non-Chinese speaking secondary school students, in addition to the primary and secondary school sections. A total of 610 schools participated, with over 126000 students taking part, which represented an increase of more than 20 per cent as compared to last year's. After several rounds of competitions, a total of 130 students and their coaching teachers joined the National Security Education Study Tour to visit Beijing and Shanghaiin December last year. At today's opening ceremony, students from the study tour shared their experiences of the journey via a short play. Through heartfelt and lively dialogues in a time-travel setting, the young generation of Hong Kong won the approval of the guests in their display of the sense of national identity, the awareness in safeguarding national security of their own accord, and the aspiration to serve the country.

Apart from the above, the disciplined services held a solemn and grand flag-raising ceremony on the morning of April 15, and "National Security Cup" sports events and open days before and after April 15. In addition, 18 District Councils have organised different events, including seminars, carnivals, competitions, lectures, for Hong Kong citizens to participate in and understand national security.

The National Security Law of the People's Republic of China stipulates that April 15 each year is the National Security Education Day. The aim of National Security Education Day is to raise citizens' awareness of safeguarding national security and help them appreciate that everyone has a responsibility for safeguarding national security and that everyone should fulfil such responsibility.

HKSAR organises activities for 2025 National Security Education Day (with photos/video) Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKSAR organises activities for 2025 National Security Education Day (with photos/video) Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKSAR organises activities for 2025 National Security Education Day (with photos/video) Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKSAR organises activities for 2025 National Security Education Day (with photos/video) Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKSAR organises activities for 2025 National Security Education Day (with photos/video) Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKSAR organises activities for 2025 National Security Education Day (with photos/video) Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKSAR organises activities for 2025 National Security Education Day (with photos/video) Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKSAR organises activities for 2025 National Security Education Day (with photos/video) Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKSAR organises activities for 2025 National Security Education Day (with photos/video) Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

Speech by SCST at welcoming lunch of Asia Cultural Co-operation Forum+ 2025

Following is the speech by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, at the welcoming lunch of the Asia Cultural Co-operation Forum+ 2025 today (April 22):

Honourable ministers, heads of delegations, Consul Generals, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

Good afternoon! And welcome to Hong Kong! Welcome to the Asia Cultural Co-operation Forum+ 2025!

The Asia Cultural Co-operation Forum (ACCF) was first initiated in Hong Kong in 2003. Having spanned over 20 years and entering its 13th edition this year, the ACCF has developed into a renowned G-to-G (government to government) platform for cultural exchange and co-operation at ministerial level in Asia. This year, we have added the plus ("+") sign to the name of the Forum. This is because, riding on the success of previous editions of the ACCF, we have expanded the coverage of participating countries this year. Apart from inviting more participants from within Asia, we have also invited our friends from the Belt and Road countries as well as those beyond Asia to participate, in the hope of further enhancing cultural exchange and connection amongst participants.

The result is that I have both the privilege and honour to welcome an unprecedentedly strong cast of over 100 representatives from 22 countries to the ACCF+ 2025, with delegations from 17 countries joining us, here in Hong Kong! I am also excited to know that five of these delegations are joining the ACCF for the very first time. Welcome again!

Equally important, we are very happy to welcome representatives from seven cultural units of various provinces and cities of China, our motherland, including the Macao Special Administration Region. Compared to the last edition of the ACCF held towards the end of 2022, which was affected by the pandemic, and some friends in the region could not make it to the Forum physically, we have now fully returned to normalcy, and it is the best time for us to get together, rekindle connections, create new collaborative opportunities, and engage in meaningful dialogues for the furtherance of cultural development in our community and in the region.

With the above in mind, we set the theme of this year's Forum as "Connect, Create, Engage: Bridging Cultures for All", underlining the Forum's significance in connecting diverse cultures in the region, inspiring creativity and empowering our cultural community. Over the past two years, we have all made tremendous efforts in reviving the arts and cultural sector in our respective community, which was hard hit by the pandemic. At the same time, the advancement in digital technology and its impacts on people interaction means that arts and cultural development ahead is now full of challenges and uncertainties. This week's Forum provides excellent opportunity of face-to-face interaction to connect and collaborate to tackle the evolving challenges. As cultural administrators, our roles are of vital importance and a platform for us to meet and exchange is particularly meaningful at this juncture.

Our fruitful journey of connection, creation and engagement begins with this welcoming lunch. In the coming two days, we are excited to present an array of fantastic programmes, including the ministerial panel this afternoon, tonight's gala dinner, plenary sessions, and insightful visits to renowned facilities such as the Hong Kong Palace Museum and M+ in the West Kowloon Cultural District. I know some of you have already visited the Hong Kong Museum of Arts and our unique art space in North Point called Oi!. Through these carefully curated programmes, we hope to showcase to you Hong Kong's latest cultural landscape, and I hope that you will be fully immersed in the cultural vibrancy of Hong Kong, which will further inspire ideas to cultivate the enrichment and growth of arts and culture for our respective community.

Let us join hands and turn this Forum into a beacon of cultural enlightenment. Not only do I look forward to learning from the enriching discussions at the Forum, I hope to start our dialogues so that we will meet again soon in Hong Kong, or elsewhere in your country. I wish you all a pleasant and fruitful stay in Hong Kong. Meanwhile, please enjoy this welcoming lunch, as well as the performances with rich Cantonese characteristics from our local artists. Thank you and bon appétit!