Who among the residents of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is entitled to participate in the management of state affairs according to law?

The correct answer is that Chinese citizens are entitled to participate in the management of state affairs in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region according to law. This stems from the Basic Law of Hong Kong, which stipulates that only Chinese nationals who are permanent residents of Hong Kong have the right to participate in the management of local affairs and political activities.

The Basic Law specifically highlights that the governance structure is designed for Chinese citizens and recognizes their role in the governance of the region. This reflects the principle of "one country, two systems," under which the rights of Chinese citizens in Hong Kong are defined within the framework established by the central government.

In contrast, the other choices do not align with the legal framework established by the Basic Law. Hong Kong citizens, while they include Chinese citizens, do not necessarily encompass all residents; thus, it does not adequately express the specific legal entitlement. All persons, in a broad sense, does not appropriately reflect the restrictions placed on participation in state affairs, as only Chinese citizens are granted this right. Lastly, foreign residents are not included in the management of state affairs, as their legal status does not confer any rights or responsibilities in this context.