President Xi Jinping marks ‘red line’ in warning to Hong Kong on national sovereignty

In a tough speech that also calls for consensus, the president warns that any challenge to Beijing is ‘absolutely impermissible’

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President Xi Jinping shakes hands with Carrie Lam, Hong Kong’s new chief executive. Photo: AFP

Published: 12:37am, 2 Jul 2017Updated: 3:45am, 2 Jul 2017

President Xi Jinping warned Hong Kong on Saturday not to cross the “red line” of undermining Chinese sovereignty, urging consensus instead of conflict to solve major problems, as he mapped out his clearest, most comprehensive direction for the city.

Wrapping up his landmark three-day visit by swearing in the city’s first female chief executive, Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, on the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to China, Xi struck a tough yet tempered tone in his 31-minute speech before a 2,000-strong audience.

He praised the city for its successes but also pointed out the strains it had been under, alluding to the political and social tumult of recent years that has spawned radical dissent and even independence advocacy, to the consternation of Beijing.

Drawing a link between the political tensions in the city and missed opportunities for socio-economic development, Xi warned that the city “cannot afford to be torn apart by reckless moves or internal rift”.

He spoke of the value of the “one country, two systems” model of governing Hong Kong, saying: “It embodies a very important tenet, namely, seeking broad common ground while allowing for major differences.”