Hong Kong marked Constitution Day on Thursday with a large seminar aimed at deepening public understanding of the constitutional framework that underpins both the country and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. The event was jointly organized by the HKSAR government and the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government, bringing together participants from across the community for a day of reflection and discussion.
Before the seminar began, attendees stood together for a minute of silence to honor the victims of the recent fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. The tragedy, which unfolded last Wednesday, has deeply affected the city, prompting widespread grief and concern.
Speaking at the seminar, Chief Executive John Lee began by expressing heartfelt condolences to the victims and extending sympathy to their families as well as residents impacted by the incident. He emphasized that the government is fully committed to disaster relief efforts and long term support for those affected. Lee also announced plans to establish an independent committee that will thoroughly investigate the fire. The aim, he said, is to identify shortcomings, prevent similar tragedies in the future, and meet the expectations of the public for accountability and transparency.
Lee noted that the lessons from the incident must be transformed into concrete improvements. He said the government will focus on enhancing urban safety, reviewing existing systems, and pursuing reforms where necessary to strengthen overall resilience.
The seminar’s theme, The Constitution and the Great Rejuvenation of the Chinese Nation, framed the discussions around the importance of constitutional principles in guiding national development. Lee highlighted that the Constitution serves as a vital legal and institutional safeguard for the country’s long term goals, including national rejuvenation. It also provides the constitutional foundation for the establishment and functioning of the HKSAR. Lee added that Hong Kong plays a meaningful role in this national journey as both a contributor and a beneficiary.
He encouraged different sectors of society to work together in strengthening Hong Kong’s development and advancing the broader national vision.
Liu Guangyuan, deputy director of the Liaison Office, also addressed the audience. He emphasized that the Constitution offers essential rule of law protection for realizing national rejuvenation and gives Hong Kong important institutional advantages that help it participate in and benefit from this national project.
Liu noted that the upcoming Legislative Council election on December 7 will reflect respect for the constitutional order and the principles of the rule of law. He said the election will support social stability and contribute to the city’s recovery efforts following the recent tragedy, representing a responsible approach to Hong Kong’s future.
Around 900 people from various sectors attended the seminar, reflecting broad community interest in constitutional education and public governance.
