Chinese authorities condemn latest U.S. 'sanctions' over HK, vow countermeasures

In response to the latest sanctions imposed by the U.S. government on six officials from the Chinese government and the Hong Kong Special Administration Region (HKSAR) government, China voiced strong opposition and condemnation on Tuesday, saying that it will take strong countermeasures in response to these despicable actions.

The U.S. State Department published the latest "Hong Kong Policy Act" report on Monday local time and sanctioned the six individuals in the excuse of "erosion of Hong Kong's autonomy." 

A spokesperson from the Commissioner's Office of China's Foreign Ministry in Hong Kong expressed strong condemnation and firm opposition on Tuesday.

The spokesperson said the U.S. has imposed unwarranted "sanctions" on Chinese officials and released a poorly crafted report filled with lies, smearing the One Country, Two Systems framework and slandering Hong Kong's rule of law, democracy, freedom, and human rights. This constitutes a blatant interference in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs, as well as a serious violation of the principles of international law and basic norms of international relations. Once again, it exposes the U.S.' hegemonic and overbearing nature, the spokesperson said.

The Chinese Embassy in the U.S. also voiced strong condemnation and opposition to the latest report and the sanctions. 

The embassy said the so-called report continues to repeat the cliche smearing Hong Kong's democracy, rule of law, human rights, and freedoms. 

We urge the U.S. to respect the facts, stop meddling in Hong Kong affairs and interfering in China's internal affairs, and cease smearing Hong Kong's democracy and rule of law. China will take strong measures to firmly counter the U.S.' wrongful actions, the embassy said. 

The spokesperson from the Commissioner's Office emphasized that Hong Kong has now entered a new stage of development, transitioning from stability to prosperity. Residents enjoy stronger legal protections for their rights and freedoms, the rule of law has been further strengthened, the business environment has improved, and economic growth has gained greater momentum, presenting a bright outlook, the spokesperson said. 

A survey report released by the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong this January indicated that foreign businesses in the city have increased confidence in Hong Kong's business environment and legal system, the spokesperson added.