In a strong response to the United States' recent announcement to impose visa restrictions on officials from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), China has pledged to take resolute countermeasures, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.
Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin addressed the issue on Monday, criticizing the U.S. for what he described as a smear campaign against Hong Kong's national security law, electoral system, and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance. He accused the U.S. of defaming Hong Kong's democracy, rule of law, human rights, and freedoms.
\"The report smears and slanders the Hong Kong national security law, the region's electoral system and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, defaming and attacking Hong Kong's democracy, rule of law, human rights and freedom,\" Wang stated.
He further emphasized that the U.S. actions interfere with China's internal affairs, violating international law and the basic norms of international relations. China has already lodged stern representations with the U.S. side in response.
Wang highlighted that since Hong Kong's return to the motherland, the central government has steadfastly implemented the principles of \"One Country, Two Systems\" and ensured that Hong Kong enjoys a high degree of autonomy. The national security law and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance have reinforced the principle of \"patriots governing Hong Kong,\" ensuring the region's prosperity and stability while safeguarding the rights and freedoms of its residents in accordance with the law.
Reiterating that Hong Kong affairs are purely China's internal matters, Wang affirmed the central government's unwavering determination to protect national sovereignty, security, and development interests, and to oppose any external interference in Hong Kong's affairs. He urged the U.S. to fully understand and respect the \"One Country, Two Systems\" framework and to cease any forms of interference in Hong Kong's internal matters.
Reference(s):
China to take countermeasures if U.S. restricts HKSAR officials visas
cgtn.com
