The opening ceremony for the 2026 legal year of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region was held on the 19th at the Hong Kong City Hall. Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Zhang Juneng, delivered a speech stating that the rule of law in Hong Kong is resilient and stable. An independent judiciary is essential for upholding justice and the rule of law. The Basic Law, general laws, and laws related to national security in Hong Kong all guarantee the impartiality and independence of the courts. The Secretary for Justice of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, Lam Ting kuo, delivered a speech at the opening ceremony on that day, stating that safeguarding national security is essential for Hong Kong's development to proceed in a safe, stable, and peaceful environment. Under the principle of 'One Country, Two Systems', the rule of law based on the common law system is one of the most unique and crucial advantages of Hong Kong. The judiciary, Department of Justice, Bar Association and Law Society in Hong Kong will unite and move forward courageously, steadfastly upholding and strengthening the rule of law in Hong Kong. (New Society)