HONG KONG -- John Lee, chief executive of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, said on Tuesday that when relevant departments have an overall plan ready, they should start the legislative work on Article 23 of the Basic Law of the HKSAR as soon as possible.

Speaking ahead of an executive council meeting, Lee said that Hong Kong society has a strong awareness to safeguard national security through legislation. Having experienced risks and injuries caused by threats to national security, Hong Kong people believe that there must be laws and enforcement mechanisms to ensure that these risks do not occur again in the city.

Lee believed that the risk of endangering national security exists daily and the international situation is constantly changing, with some hostile forces still keeping a watchful eye.

The earlier the legislation is completed, the sooner Hong Kong will be free from such threats. A safe environment is crucial for investment, peaceful living, and thriving businesses, he added.