Q: On December 15, the spokesperson of the European External Action Service (EEAS) issued a statement regarding the verdict in the Jimmy Lai case in Hong Kong. What is China’s comment?

A: China strongly deplores and firmly opposes the statement of the EU side, which blatantly makes false accusations against Hong Kong’s judicial affairs and constitutes a blatant interference with China’s internal affairs. China has lodged solemn representations with the EU side. Hong Kong is a society governed by the rule of law, where everyone is equal before the law, and no one possesses privileges above the law. Judicial authorities in Hong Kong SAR fulfill their duties, safeguard the authority of the law and defend national security in accordance with the law. This is justified, legitimate and lawful. The Central Government firmly supports the Hong Kong SAR in safeguarding national security and punishing crimes that endanger national security in accordance with the law. Since the implementation of the National Security Law, the rule of law and business environment in Hong Kong have improved, the foundation for long-term prosperity and stability has been further consolidated, and the lawful rights and freedoms of Hong Kong residents have been better protected in a safer environment.

Hong Kong affairs are purely China’s internal affairs that brook no external interference. We urge the EU side to abide by the principles of international law and the basic norms governing international relations, respect China’s sovereignty and the rule of law in Hong Kong, refrain from making irresponsible remarks on the trial of judicial cases in Hong Kong SAR, stop lending support to anti-China forces destabilizing Hong Kong, and stop meddling in Hong Kong’s judicial affairs and interfering in China’s internal affairs in any form.