National security law: Hong Kong says it ‘strongly deplored and opposed’ US consulate statement
- Hong Kong responds to the US consulate’s statement on the national security law
- In rare move, the US diplomatic office calls new law ‘ill-defined, vaguely worded and far-reaching’
The Hong Kong government said it “strongly deplored and opposed” a statement by the United States consulate on Friday calling the new national security legislation a “draconian” law that would have a chilling effect on the city.
The statement “incorrectly and inappropriately commented that the law of the People's Republic of China on safeguarding national security” in Hong Kong “would affect the freedom of speech of Hong Kong residents,” the government said in a response.
The Hong Kong government called the US’ comments on the law “inappropriate” and said they smacked of “political manipulation and double standards”.
“It is a gross interference in China’s internal affairs and a grave violation of basic norms governing international relations,” it added in a statement released on Friday night.
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“The national security law only targets four types of acts and activities that endanger national security. The vast majority of Hong Kong residents who are law-abiding, including overseas investors, are entirely not affected,” it said.