Tensions Over the 'Hong Kong Security Law'... US "Revokes Hong Kong's Special Status" China "No Interference in Internal Affairs"

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] The conflict between the United States and China is deepening over the enactment of the "Hong Kong National Security Law (Hong Kong Security Law)." The U.S. is pressuring China by mentioning the possibility of revoking Hong Kong's special status in economic and trade sectors, but China has stated that it will not yield, insisting that there should be no interference in its internal affairs.

Photo by Reuters Yonhap News

On the 22nd (local time), the U.S. hinted at the possibility of revoking the special economic and trade status it had granted Hong Kong so far, mentioning a reassessment of the "One Country, Two Systems" policy in response to China's announcement of its position on the enactment of the Hong Kong Security Law. In addition, the U.S. has begun to exert its power by announcing additional sanctions on Chinese companies and institutions, along with regulations on Huawei, a Chinese telecommunications equipment company.

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also expressed concern that if the Hong Kong Security Law is forcibly enacted, it would be a precursor to the end of the high degree of autonomy granted to Hong Kong. Robert O'Brien, White House National Security Advisor, stated, "Hong Kong has enjoyed privileges as a liberal economy under various customs unions," and added, "We need to examine whether these rights can continue."

U.S. President Donald Trump also indicated that he is coordinating the timing by saying, "I will make a statement at the appropriate time" regarding this issue.

The U.S. guaranteed special treatment for Hong Kong, different from mainland China, in tariffs, investment, trade, and visa issuance through the Hong Kong Policy Act of 1992. However, through the "Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act" passed last November, the U.S. Department of State was tasked with reviewing Hong Kong's level of autonomy to decide whether to maintain the economic and trade privileges granted to Hong Kong. If Hong Kong loses the privileges it has received so far, the U.S. may have to bear punitive tariffs imposed on China. The introduction of the Hong Kong Security Law could shake Hong Kong's status as a financial hub.

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

On the other hand, China maintains the position that the enactment of the Hong Kong Security Law is an internal matter. Regarding the Hong Kong Security Law reported to the National People's Congress (NPC), the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned, "Activities of Hong Kong independence and radical separatist forces are becoming rampant, and external forces and Taiwan independence forces are blatantly interfering in Hong Kong affairs," adding, "This harms Hong Kong's security and challenges the red line of One Country, Two Systems." It further stated, "The Hong Kong Security Law is a necessary measure to safeguard national sovereignty and consolidate the foundation of One Country, Two Systems, and a legitimate choice to prevent external interference in Hong Kong affairs."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.