Beijing disapproves any ‘meddling’ in Hong Kong
Hong Kong, July 2: China’s government and proBeijing activists in Hong Kong condemned what they called foreign meddling in the territory’s affairs on Thursday, as countries moved to offer Hong Kongers refuge and impose sanctions on China over a new security law.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said no amount of pressure from external forces could “shake China’s determination and will to safeguard national sovereignty and Hong Kong's prosperity and stability”.
He urged the US to abide by international law and stop interfering in Hong Kong’s affairs, and not sign a sanction bill into law. His comments came after the US House of Representatives on Wednesday joined the Senate in approving a bill to rebuke China over its crackdown in Hong Kong by imposing sanctions on groups that undermine the city’s autonomy or restrict freedoms promised to its residents.
If the bill becomes law, “China will definitely take strong countermeasures, and all consequences will be borne by the US side,” Zhao said at a daily briefing. Meanwhile, dozens of pro-Beijing activists and lawmakers protested outside the US Consulate in Hong Kong to demand that the US stop meddling. The group said it
gathered 1.6 million signatures online in support of its call.
Tam Yiu-Chung, Hong Kong’s sole delegate to the National People’s Congress Standing Committee, said on public broadcaster RTHK on Thursday that the new security law imposed by Beijing on Hong Kong was not harsh. His comments came a day after thousands of protesters marched against the security law, which took effect in Hong Kong late Tuesday. ● AUSTRALIA PM Scott Morrison said that he was disturbed by the crackdowns on protesters in Hong Kong. Replying to a question on if Australia would offer a safe haven for Hong Kong residents, he said, “We are considering (it) very actively.” He said the Cabinet would soon consider “to provide similar opportunities” to what the UK has offered to Hong Kongers.