Central authorities resolved to fight against "Hong Kong independence": People's Daily

BEIJING -- The Chinese central authorities has underscored that it has no tolerance for those calling for "Hong Kong independence," according to a commentary in the People's Daily Tuesday edition.

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.

Clarifying the implications of relevant provisions in the Basic Law and reiterating those rules by issuing an interpretation is a crucial move by the legislature in response to the current situation in Hong Kong, the commentary said.

"The adoption of the interpretation is representative of the aspirations of the Chinese people, the call of the rule of law, and the power of justice," it continued.

The "Hong Kong independence" is driven by the desire to split the nation, undermining the country's unity, territorial integrity and sovereign security, as well as the fundamental interests of all Chinese, including the compatriots of Hong Kong, according to the article.

The interpretation provides a precedent and guidance for handling issues related to the taking of official oaths in the SAR, and outlines ways in which the "Hong Kong independence" should be dealt with, a clear sign from the central government that it will uphold national unity and security, it said.

To ensure the implementation of the "one country, two systems" principle and the Basic Law, and safeguard the nation's core interests as well as the fundamental interests of Hong Kong, the central authorities will eliminate any "Hong Kong independence" activities, said the commentary.