US Criticizes China's Hong Kong Policy as "Dismantling Democracy and Eradicating Opposition"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Bu Aeri] The U.S. government has strongly criticized China's Hong Kong policy. This criticism came as Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Hong Kong to attend the 25th anniversary of Hong Kong's handover.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement on the 30th (local time), "July 1 marks the midpoint of the 50-year autonomy period promised under the 'one country, two systems' framework," adding, "However, it has become clear that Hong Kong and Beijing authorities do not view democratic participation, fundamental freedoms, and an independent press as part of this vision."

He continued, "In 2019, Hong Kong residents protested against the controversial extradition bill, to which Beijing responded with the National Security Law," pointing out, "This law has served as the foundation for dismantling the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong residents and eroding autonomy over the past two years."

Secretary Blinken stated, "Hong Kong leaders have raided independent media organizations, weakened democratic institutions, delayed elections, disqualified sitting legislators, and institutionalized loyalty oaths," adding, "They have done all this to take away what was promised to the people of Hong Kong."

He also declared, "We stand in solidarity with the people of Hong Kong."

Adrian Watson, spokesperson for the White House National Security Council (NSC), also criticized in a written comment, "The 25th anniversary marks the midpoint of the 50 years of autonomy promised in the Sino-British Joint Declaration," adding, "What we are witnessing, however, is the dismantling of Hong Kong's democratic institutions, unprecedented pressure on the judiciary, suppression of academic, cultural, and press freedoms, and the disbanding of dozens of human rights organizations and media outlets."

Regarding the National Security Law, he pointed out, "With the aggressive enforcement of the National Security Law on its second anniversary, meaningful opposition and dissent have been eradicated," noting, "As a result, pro-democracy politicians in Hong Kong are either imprisoned, on trial, or exiled overseas."

He added, "Hong Kong leaders emphasize the importance of respecting human rights protections and the freedoms of Hong Kong people as stipulated in the Basic Law."

China expressed displeasure, calling it interference in internal affairs.

China reacted harshly, stating that mentioning Hong Kong issues constitutes interference in internal affairs.

Zhao Lijian, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said at a regular briefing on the 1st, "Some Western countries are criticizing the 'one country, two systems' policy during this joyous moment for the Chinese people, including Hong Kong compatriots," adding, "These countries often talk about democracy and human rights but fail to see their own serious problems and blemishes."

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