Statement by Six Religious Leaders of Hong Kong on the passage of the Safeguarding National Security Bill by LegCo

The Six Religious Leaders of Hong Kong are pleased to see The Safeguarding National Security Bill has been passed after the third reading, and are here to reiterate three main points:

1. The Safeguarding National Security Bill is based on Article 23 of the Basic Law and the Hong Kong National Security Law, and gives full effect to the constitutional obligation of the HKSAR;
2. We accept that the legislation can prevent and suppress acts and activities endangering national security and effectively safeguard national security in accordance with the Common Law and the principle of the rule of law;
3. The HKSAR government has clearly defined and delineated the legal provisions to achieve a balance between safeguarding national security and protecting human rights, including religious freedom.

Six Religious Leaders of Hong Kong

The Most Ven. Kuan Yun, President, The Hong Kong Buddhist Association
Cardinal Stephen Chow Sau Yan, S.J, Bishop, Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong
Dr. Tong Yun Kai, President, The Confucian Academy
Mr. Tuet Sui-Hong Ali, Chairman, The Chinese Muslim Cultural and Fraternal Association Rev. Wong Ka Fai, Chairperson, Hong Kong Christian Council

Mr. Leung Tak Wah, Chairman, The Hong Kong Taoist Association