21st November 2023 – (Beijing) A delegation of politically appointed officials from various departments of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has embarked on a study program in Beijing, aimed at deepening their understanding of national affairs and promoting closer integration with the country. Today, they were warmly received by Mr. Xia Baolong, Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council.
During the meeting, Mr. Xia expressed his appreciation for the work of the Under Secretaries and Political Assistants since assuming their roles. He emphasized the crucial role played by politically appointed officials in the governance of the HKSAR and urged them to fulfil their oaths faithfully, demonstrating their patriotism and love for Hong Kong through tangible actions. Mr. Xia encouraged them to continually enhance their learning, capabilities, and performance, while fully supporting the Chief Executive in accordance with the law, to contribute to Hong Kong’s progress and the successful implementation of “one country, two systems.”
Ms. Yip, leading the delegation, briefed Mr. Xia on the objectives and expected outcomes of the study program. She highlighted that this program, organized by the current-term Government, is the largest of its kind in recent years and reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing the officials’ understanding of the country’s history, political system, legal framework, important policies, and the latest socio-economic situation.
Ms. Yip emphasised that through comprehensive and in-depth study of national affairs, the politically appointed officials will be able to approach policy formulation and public communication from national and international perspectives, thus gaining a better understanding of the country’s needs for high-quality development. She expressed confidence that this knowledge will contribute to the proactive integration of HKSAR into national development and facilitate Hong Kong’s progress.
Over the past two days, the delegation has participated in a series of thematic lectures at the National Academy of Governance (NAG). These lectures covered topics such as the holistic view of national security and the modernization of the national security system and capabilities, the Constitution and the Basic Law of the HKSAR, and the philosophy and implementation of modernization with Chinese characteristics.
The delegation, consisting of 13 Under Secretaries and 19 Political Assistants, will continue their program and engagements in Beijing tomorrow. The study program underscores the HKSAR Government’s commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of national affairs among politically appointed officials, enabling them to contribute effectively to Hong Kong’s development and integration into the broader national landscape.