On Saturday, Xia Baolong, the director of the Central Coordinating Office for Hong Kong and Macao Affairs, stated at a forum marking the fifth anniversary of the Hong Kong National Security Law that the national security situation in Hong Kong remains complex and severe. He emphasized that the law is crucial for maintaining the 'One Country, Two Systems' principle and ensuring the prosperity and stability of the region, insisting that governance power must be firmly in the hands of patriots.

Xia noted that both external and internal environments in Hong Kong are changing, necessitating a balance between external and internal security. He accused the Legislative Council of once being manipulated by anti-China forces and stressed the need to strengthen responses to non-traditional security threats.

Since the law's implementation, many pro-democracy leaders have faced prosecution, and numerous civil society groups have been disbanded. Recently, authorities have escalated crackdowns, conducting raids on residences of six individuals accused of colluding with foreign powers.

Despite criticism, Xia characterized the National Security Law as a measure for gradual reform to safeguard Hong Kong's security and prosperity, encouraging investors to maintain an open business environment in the city.