The "World Economic Freedom 2020 Annual Report" released by the Fraser Institute of Canada once again ranked Hong Kong as the freest economy in the world. Since the report was released, Hong Kong has consistently ranked first in the world. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government welcomed this late at night on the 10th.
"This clearly affirms Hong Kong's determination to establish a free economy and provide a fair business environment." The spokesperson of the SAR government said that in the five major assessment items, Hong Kong has both "freedom of international trade" and "regulation". Ranked first.
Regarding the suspicion that the rule of law in Hong Kong may be weakened, the spokesman said that the rule of law is an important core value of Hong Kong and is cherished by the public. The SAR government and society as a whole have been firmly defending and upholding the rule of law. Regrettably, Fraser Research is biased and based on selective comments and unjustified unfair speculations inferred that Hong Kong's ratings in this area will decline in the future.
The spokesman said that Hong Kong’s rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are fully protected by the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China. However, these rights and freedoms are not absolute. For example, they can be restricted by law based on the needs of public order. In the past year, Hong Kong has experienced social turmoil and its good law and order has been seriously challenged. The police force is responsible for taking legal measures to maintain public safety, public order and protect citizens' lives and property.
Regarding the establishment of the Hong Kong National Security Law and related enforcement actions mentioned in the report, the spokesperson reiterated that it is an international practice to maintain national security through laws. Every country has laws to safeguard its national security and sovereignty, which is also its responsibility. The Hong Kong National Security Law was formulated to unswervingly and fully and accurately implement "One Country, Two Systems", safeguard national security, prevent, stop and punish crimes that endanger national security, maintain the prosperity and stability of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and protect the legitimate rights and interests of Hong Kong residents.
The spokesman said that the principle of free market has always been an important consideration of the SAR government in formulating policies and the cornerstone of the Hong Kong economy. The SAR government will strive to consolidate Hong Kong’s inherent institutional advantages, including the rule of law and judicial independence, a free trade and investment system, a simple and low tax system, a good business environment, and an efficient government. These advantages provide a stable and favorable environment for enterprises to flourish and allow the overall economy to continue to prosper.