China has called on the United States to cease interfering in Hong Kong affairs, which Beijing considers strictly internal matters. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks on Monday in response to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s recent comments on Hong Kong’s Safeguarding National Security Ordinance.
At a regular press briefing, Lin emphasized that no foreign country has the right to make irresponsible remarks about Hong Kong affairs. He noted that the implementation of the Ordinance marks the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s fulfillment of its constitutional responsibilities under Article 23 of the Basic Law.
“The Ordinance will further strengthen the security foundation for Hong Kong’s development and enable the region to achieve stability and prosperity at a faster pace,” Lin stated. He added that all sectors in Hong Kong have shown strong support for the legislation.
Lin highlighted that the Ordinance balances safeguarding national security with protecting rights, freedoms, and economic growth. “It fully respects and protects human rights, clearly defines elements of crime, and distinguishes between crime and non-crime,” he said.
According to Lin, the Ordinance does not undermine Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy, nor does it alter the current capitalist system or way of life in Hong Kong. “It will allow Hong Kong to better leverage its unique status and strengths, deepen exchanges and cooperation with various countries and regions, and consolidate its position as an international financial, shipping, and trade center,” he asserted.
Lin criticized the United States for what he termed “sheer political manipulation and hypocritical double standards.” He pointed out that while the U.S. has an airtight national security system with extensive laws and extraterritorial reach, it continues to criticize Hong Kong’s efforts to safeguard its own national security.
“The Chinese government remains unwavering in its determination to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty, security, and development interests and to implement the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ policy,” Lin affirmed. He urged the United States to respect China’s sovereignty and the rule of law in Hong Kong, adhere to international law and norms, and immediately stop meddling in Hong Kong affairs.
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China urges U.S. to immediately stop meddling in Hong Kong affairs
cgtn.com
