The Chinese Foreign Ministry's Commissioner's Office in Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government have jointly condemned a U.S. State Department report criticizing the city's business environment, calling it a politically motivated smear campaign.
In a Sunday statement, a spokesperson for the Commissioner's Office accused Washington of hypocrisy, noting that the U.S. maintains systemic trade barriers and visa restrictions while attempting to undermine confidence in Hong Kong's legal framework. The spokesperson emphasized that the national security law and Safeguarding National Security Ordinance have strengthened stability, with Hong Kong remaining a top global investment hub.
The HKSAR government separately denounced the report's 'biased assertions,' stating that international businesses continue to show strong confidence in the city. 'Various data clearly demonstrate Hong Kong's outstanding business environment remains highly appealing,' a government spokesperson said, citing the city's free port status and unique role as a 'super connector' under the 'one country, two systems' principle.
Both statements urged the U.S. to cease interference in Hong Kong affairs and lift unilateral sanctions. The Commissioner's Office emphasized that Hong Kong's legal reforms align with international norms for safeguarding national security while protecting legitimate rights and freedoms.
