Hong Kong now has a strong defensive wall to safeguard national security following the enactment of legislation under Article 23 of the Basic Law, the SAR's liaison office chief said on Saturday.

At a police open day marking the 180th anniversary of the force, director of the Liaison Office Zheng Yanxiong said the city could focus on the economy.

"This marks a new stage for Hong Kong under the rule of law, with a comprehensive, efficient and reliable system. It signifies that Hong Kong now has a strong iron wall to safeguard national sovereignty, security, and development interests, and the city is united as one. Hong Kong can now go forward without burden and strive for economic development," he said.

Chief Executive John Lee described police officers as "an important force" in safeguarding national security, while praising them for overcoming challenges throughout the years.

"In the face of storms of bullets, natural and human-made disasters, social unrest, the colour revolution in Hong Kong, or the pandemic of the century – one difficulty after another, a challenge after another – the police force has fulfilled its responsibilities, united as one, acted fearlessly to remain steadfast in its duties, while fighting crime, upholding the rule of law and protecting citizens," he said.

Police commissioner Raymond Siu, for his part, noted that the overall law and order situation in the city had remained stable in recent years, thanks to the hard work of the force and the support from various stakeholders.