
The recent meeting between British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, Parliamentary Under-Secretary Catherine West, and four individuals wanted by Hong Kong authorities for alleged national security offenses has drawn strong condemnation from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government. The HKSAR government has expressed its unequivocal disapproval of what it perceives as an attempt to interfere with its lawful enforcement actions.
The HKSAR government spokesperson emphasized that endangering national security is a grave offense, and no country would turn a blind eye to such activities. The individuals in question, who fled Hong Kong and are now allegedly involved in activities that violate the Hong Kong National Security Law, have been lawfully pursued with arrest warrants issued by the courts. The spokesperson criticized the British government for ignoring the alleged crimes of these individuals, accusing it of displaying a "double standard" and hypocrisy.
The spokesperson reiterated that Hong Kong's law enforcement agencies act strictly in accordance with the law, based on evidence, and without regard to the political stance, background, or profession of those involved. The HKSAR government has a duty to hold accountable those who are suspected of endangering national security, even if they have fled overseas.
The government warned that no one should believe they can evade justice simply by being abroad. The HKSAR government is committed to using all available means to pursue and bring to justice those who threaten national security from overseas, ensuring that "lawbreakers are held accountable, no matter how far they flee." The spokesperson urged the wanted individuals to cease their actions, return to Hong Kong, and surrender to the authorities, emphasizing that continuing down this path would only compound their mistakes.
The spokesperson also reaffirmed that the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong residents are firmly protected under the Constitution and the Basic Law. Any attempts by foreign or external forces to discredit Hong Kong's situation are bound to fail, as they lack any legitimate grounds.
The HKSAR government remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding national security while protecting the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong citizens, ensuring the steady and long-term success of the "one country, two systems" principle. The government has called on the British government to immediately cease its interference in Hong Kong affairs, which are purely China's internal matters.
In a related statement, the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong also expressed strong opposition to the British officials' actions, accusing them of undermining the rule of law in Hong Kong and interfering in China's internal affairs. The office emphasized that the Hong Kong National Security Law has been instrumental in restoring order and ensuring justice, and called on the British government to respect Hong Kong's legal system and China's sovereignty.
The HKSAR government's firm stance underscores its unwavering commitment to national security and the rule of law, while also sending a clear message to external forces that any attempts to interfere in Hong Kong's affairs will be met with resolute opposition.