Security and development took center stage in Hong Kong ahead of National Security Education Day on April 15. Financial Secretary Paul Chan emphasized that security is the foundation of a country’s existence. It also serves as the bedrock of social stability and people’s well-being. Chan noted that ensuring both development and security is a key principle in the 15th Five-Year Plan outline. The principle also appears in a white paper on safeguarding national security under one country two systems.
Hong Kong must strike a proper balance between development and security, Chan stressed. The city serves as an international financial, trade, shipping, and innovation hub. Chan advocated risk prevention alongside opening-up and innovation. He cited the financial sector as an example of this approach. Hong Kong’s financial system is sound and supports rapid market development. The system has always stood firm on security with close oversight of market conditions. Innovation can only foster a resilient financial system when grounded in security and risk control.
Chan noted the volatile international landscape and intensified geopolitical rivalry. Hong Kong must put security at the heart of development. The city must also consolidate the foundation of security through high-quality development. Only by ensuring both security and development can Hong Kong break new ground. Moreover, the city can then write a new chapter of greater prosperity and stability. This security and development strategy positions Hong Kong for long-term success.
The Hong Kong Police Force held the National Security Education Day 2026 cum Police Fun Day on Sunday. The event aimed to enhance public awareness of national security. It also strengthened the cultivation of national identity among residents. Thus, the community gained a better understanding of police work in safeguarding national security. Cheuk Wing-hing, deputy chief secretary for administration, commended the police force. Officers have unequivocally and fearlessly discharged their duties in safeguarding national security. They have also made enormous and irreplaceable contributions to building an impregnable defence for Hong Kong.
Chow Yat-ming, commissioner of police, noted that Hong Kong has transitioned from chaos to order. The city has entered a new stage of advancing from stability to prosperity. Hard-earned stability exemplifies the country’s strong support for Hong Kong. Therefore, no one can remain a mere spectator in safeguarding national security. Every citizen has a duty to play their part, Chow said. He hoped the public would better understand the white paper’s principles through the education day. Citizens should enhance their awareness of national security and work together to safeguard Hong Kong’s stability.
The event featured a national security education exhibition zone. Interactive games targeted the younger generation specifically. Specialized equipment from the Counter Terrorism Response Unit was on display. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau and Police Dog Unit also showcased their gear. These exhibits demonstrated the police force’s professionalism and work diversity. The security and development message reached thousands of attendees through these activities. Officials expect continued public engagement on national security issues. The security and development framework will remain central to Hong Kong’s governance approach. Future events will build on this foundation to strengthen community awareness.
