The Hong Kong national security law, enacted in 2020, has been a point of contention globally, drawing criticism from foreign governments and organisations concerned about its implications for freedoms in the region
The Chinese Foreign Ministry expressed strong opposition on Wednesday to international criticism of the Hong Kong police force’s recent law enforcement actions. The remarks come after the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, led by Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-Keung, announced measures targeting individuals accused of violating the region’s national security laws.
On Tuesday, the HKSAR government issued notices under the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, listing seven individuals—Hui Chi-fung, Kwok Fung-yee, Yuan Gong-yi, Kwok Wing-hang, Yam Kevin, Hui Wing-ting, and Siu Joey—as absconders. These individuals, now abroad, are accused of engaging in activities that threaten Hong Kong’s stability and national security. The Hong Kong police have also added six other suspects to their wanted list for alleged violations of the national security law.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning defended the actions during a daily press briefing, asserting that the measures are in accordance with the law and aligned with public opinion in Hong Kong. Mao stated that the absconders have consistently carried out anti-China activities aimed at destabilising the HKSAR and undermining the principle of “one country, two systems.”
“These acts have seriously endangered national security and harmed Hong Kong’s fundamental interests,” Mao said, adding that the enforcement actions by the police are necessary to protect China’s sovereignty and the long-term stability of the region. She also emphasised that such measures are consistent with international law and global practices.
Mao firmly dismissed external criticism of the enforcement, reiterating that Hong Kong’s affairs are a domestic matter for China. “Any attempt by external forces to meddle in Hong Kong affairs under the guise of ‘human rights and freedom’ is doomed to fail,” she remarked.
The Hong Kong national security law, enacted in 2020, has been a point of contention globally, drawing criticism from foreign governments and organisations concerned about its implications for freedoms in the region. However, Chinese authorities have consistently maintained that the law is essential for maintaining order and stability in Hong Kong following years of unrest.
This development highlights the ongoing tension between Beijing and certain international actors over Hong Kong’s governance and the interpretation of its “one country, two systems” framework.
