China Rebukes EU Statement on Hong Kong: Freedom of Speech Not a Shieldfor Crimes
Brussels, August 30, 2024 – The Chinese Embassy to the European Union issued a statement on August 29th, firmly rejecting the EU’s recent remarks on Hong Kong, emphasizingthat freedom of speech and press cannot be used as a shield for illegal activities or a passport for anti-China and disruptive actions in Hong Kong. The statement urgedthe EU to cease interfering in Hong Kong’s affairs and China’s internal matters.
The EU’s statement, issued by the spokesperson for the European External Action Service on August 29th, expressed concern over the recent verdictin the case involving the Hong Kong news outlet Stand News, claiming that the ruling further restricted freedom of expression in Hong Kong. The statement called on Hong Kong authorities to halt similar prosecutions.
In response, the Chinese Embassy spokesperson clarified thatHong Kong operates under the rule of law, where laws are enforced and violations are subject to legal consequences. Freedom of speech and press is not a shield for illegal activities, nor is it a passport for anti-China and disruptive actions in Hong Kong, the spokesperson stated.
The spokesperson further emphasized that the HongKong Special Administrative Region’s judicial system operates impartially and follows legal procedures in all cases. The spokesperson asserted that the judicial proceedings are fair and legitimate, rejecting any accusations of wrongdoing.
The spokesperson highlighted that Hong Kong affairs are strictly an internal matter for China and are not subject to external interference. The EU,while claiming to uphold the rule of law, has interfered in the judicial affairs of another country, which is a blatant violation of the rule of law and a gross interference in China’s internal affairs, the spokesperson said. China strongly condemns and opposes such actions.
The statement concluded by urging the EU to adhere tointernational law and the basic norms of international relations, respect China’s sovereignty and Hong Kong’s legal system, and cease interfering in Hong Kong’s affairs and China’s internal matters.
This latest exchange underscores the ongoing tension between China and the EU regarding Hong Kong. The EU has repeatedly expressed concerns over theperceived erosion of freedoms in Hong Kong since the implementation of the National Security Law in 2020. China, however, maintains that the law is necessary to maintain stability and security in Hong Kong and that it does not infringe on legitimate freedoms.
The EU’s statement and China’s response highlight the differingperspectives on the situation in Hong Kong. While the EU focuses on the perceived shrinking space for freedom of expression, China emphasizes the importance of maintaining law and order and preventing activities that threaten national security. This clash of viewpoints is likely to continue as both sides hold firm to their respective positions.
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