National People's Congress Standing Committee (NPCSC) Chairman Zhang Dejiang visited Hong Kong at a time when the "One Country, Two Systems" policy is facing unprecedented challenges. On the one hand, the SAR is experiencing a surge of activity advocating "Hong Kong independence" and similar things; on the other, many local residents find themselves confused about the future of their city as well as the "One Country, Two Systems" principle.

The loudest advocates of "Hong Kong independence", collectively known as the "localist" faction in the opposition camp, rose to prominence during the illegal "Occupy Central" movement. At that time, the "pan-democratic" alliance was visibly falling apart. Some groups and individuals started warming to the pursuit of "self-determination" while feeling sympathetic or indifferent toward "HK independence". Most of the opposition groups and prominent figures, however, were teetering near the edges of the "One Country, Two Systems" principle. They were wondering whether they should side with the separatist faction and fight for "HK independence".

Meanwhile, Hong Kong found some members of society worried that the "pro-independence" forces were so motivated that the central government might be compelled to replace "One Country, Two Systems" with "One Country, One System". Some others were tempted to support or at least feel sympathetic to "independence". Most people were anxious to know where Hong Kong was heading and whom to follow.

Faced with a situation like this, Zhang Dejiang met with four opposition lawmakers before the welcoming dinner on the night of May 18. He heard directly from them some of the concerns their parties share. Of course, he also addressed major issues on behalf of the central government. Zhang was the first State leader to directly talk with opposition lawmakers. This not only demonstrated the central government authorities' willingness to seek common ground with all political parties while leaving their differences aside but also served notice to the "pan-democrats" that they are better off without "HK independence".

In his speech at the welcoming dinner after the meeting, Zhang gave Hong Kong residents the following advice: Do not forget the original intent of the "One Country, Two Systems" principle; be patient with the implementation of the "One Country, Two Systems" policy; and remain confident in the effectiveness of the policy. His advice gave 7.3 million Hong Kong residents the timely assurance that "One Country, Two Systems" will stay as long as they want it to.

Compared with comments by other State leaders over the years, Zhang's message for Hong Kong residents this time contains something new - be patient with the exercise of "One Country, Two Systems" policy. In explaining this point, he said: "The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has yet to celebrate its 19th anniversary" - while the "One Country, Two Systems" principle is unprecedented in every sense. This means implementation of the policy has to be updated when necessary. Some deeper problems take longer to manifest, but it is only a matter of time before they emerge. Some of those we see today took years to surface, while some others have just emerged. No one should expect a quick fix for any of them. That said, we have no reason to question the "One Country, Two Systems" principle, lose confidence in it or even oppose it.

It is the SAR government's responsibility to ensure lawful administration of Hong Kong affairs in accordance with the "One Country, Two Systems" principle. All local residents should support the SAR government in doing its job according to the Basic Law. I understand that Hong Kong residents must realize they must love and cherish the city we all call home. However, their love for Hong Kong may not be rewarded unless they do the following:

First, clearly differentiate between "hometown affinity" and "HK independence". It is only natural for Hong Kong residents to love their hometown. Preserving the city's socio-economic system as well as way of life is one of the prime objectives of the "One Country, Two Systems" policy. A very small number of individuals are demanding "HK independence" under the guise of "localism". Such separatist attempts pose a grave threat to Hong Kong as we know it and must be stopped at all cost;

Second, focus on economic development and improving people's livelihoods while rejecting anything designed to mess up Hong Kong. Its status as an international financial center and free-trade hub will be eroded if the focus shifts to political wrangling from economic development;

And third, always keep in mind unity and consensus. Zhang used a very common analogy in a speech to representatives of all sectors on May 19. He likened Hong Kong to a boat and local residents to the passengers. Everybody will be fine as long as the boat is stable, otherwise everyone onboard will be in danger.

The well-being of Hong Kong residents depends on their ability and willingness to work together in maintaining social stability as well as economic prosperity by supporting the SAR government's lawful administration and thwarting any separatist attempts under any guise.

(HK Edition 05/25/2016 page10)