HONG KONG, July 1 (Xinhua) -- The promulgation of the Law of the People's Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) marks a significant turning point for Hong Kong and a milestone for the practice of "one country, two systems," Luo Huining, director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR, said on Wednesday.

"With the elapse of time, we will get a good view that the promulgation of the law marks a significant turning point for Hong Kong to move from turmoil to stability, and a major milestone for the practice of 'one country, two systems' in Hong Kong," Luo said in a speech at a launching ceremony of events marking the 23rd anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland.

The social unrest arising from the now-withdrawn ordinance amendments concerning fugitive transfers since last year has exposed the tremendous risks Hong Kong is facing in safeguarding national security and posed a grave challenge to "one country, two systems," he said.

Against this backdrop, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress enacted the Law of the People's Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in accordance with the Constitution and the Basic Law of the HKSAR, a move to further consolidate and improve the "one country, two systems" framework, Luo noted.

The unprecedented cause of "one country, two systems" needs to be continuously enriched and developed in practice, he said. "We feel heartened that the national security law will help safeguard 'one country, two systems' in Hong Kong."

"For the tiny minority of people who endanger national security, this law will be a sword hanging over their heads. For the vast majority of Hong Kong residents, including foreigners living here, the law will be a guardian that protects their rights, freedoms and peaceful lives," he stressed.

Luo said the facts during the 23 years since Hong Kong's return to the motherland have proved that the central government has Hong Kong and Hong Kong compatriots close at heart, and takes the utmost care for the overall interests of Hong Kong and the fundamental well-being of Hong Kong compatriots.

Noting that the national security law for Hong Kong meets the shared aspiration of the people and has won the support of all Chinese people including Hong Kong residents, Luo pointed out that upholding "one country, two systems" is the "greatest common divisor" in Hong Kong society and a common aspiration of the general public of Hong Kong.

"Upon the implementation of the national security law, our country will become more secure, the society more stable and the lives of Hong Kong residents more peaceful. Hong Kong, our home, will surely ride out the difficulties, start anew and embrace a bright future," he said. ■