In a strong response to recent U.S. remarks, the Chinese embassy in the United States has expressed deep dissatisfaction and firm opposition to the “Hong Kong Policy Act Report” released by the U.S. Department of State and the statement issued by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
A spokesperson for the embassy stated on Friday that the United States has repeatedly criticized and smeared the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)’s Safeguarding National Security Ordinance. The U.S. has also threatened unwarranted unilateral sanctions on the HKSAR and imposed sanctions on Hong Kong officials performing their duties.
“China strongly deplores and firmly opposes this,” the spokesperson said, urging the U.S. to immediately cease interfering in Hong Kong affairs and other internal matters of China.
Enactment of the Security Ordinance
The HKSAR’s Safeguarding National Security Ordinance took effect on March 23, fulfilling the legislative requirements stipulated by Article 23 of the HKSAR Basic Law and addressing previous gaps in national security.
Drawing from the experiences of other countries, particularly those with common law systems, the ordinance respects and protects human rights, clearly defines criminal elements, and distinguishes between lawful and unlawful activities, according to the embassy spokesperson.
Protecting International Interests
The spokesperson emphasized that the ordinance provides effective protection for the normal business activities of foreign institutions, organizations, and personnel in Hong Kong, as well as their need for international exchanges.
“It does not undermine the high degree of autonomy in Hong Kong, nor does it change the current capitalist system and way of life in Hong Kong,” the spokesperson added.
Enhancing Hong Kong’s Global Role
According to the spokesperson, the ordinance will enable 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.
Allegations of Double Standards
Accusing the U.S. of double standards on national security issues, the spokesperson pointed out that the U.S. possesses an extensive national security system with numerous laws and unparalleled extraterritorial reach, yet continues to critique the HKSAR’s security legislation.
“This is sheer political manipulation and hypocritical double standards,” the spokesperson asserted.
Call for Respect
The embassy urged the United States to respect China’s sovereignty and the rule of law in Hong Kong and to immediately stop meddling in the HKSAR’s affairs.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
