International tensions have flared over Hong Kong's proposed Article 23 security legislation, with significant opposition from global leaders and organizations. U.S. Representative Adam Schiff and the UK, as a co-signatory to the Sino-British Joint Declaration, have expressed concerns that the legislation would infringe on the fundamental rights and freedoms of Hong Kong citizens. British Foreign Secretary David Cameron stated that the new security law breaches the handover agreement between the UK and China, a sentiment echoed in his statement and by other officials. The Chinese embassy in London responded by criticizing the UK's national security legislation. Concerns have been raised about the law's broad definitions of 'state secrets' and 'external interference,' which could potentially suppress dissent through fear of arrest. China has defended the law, slamming foreign criticism as 'smearing' and urging the UK to stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs. This situation underscores the international dispute over Hong Kong's autonomy and the impact on its rule of law and economic development.
Mao Ning: "We urge the UK to find the right mindset, face squarely the fact that Hong Kong has already returned to China, stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs, reflect on its action, and end double standards." https://t.co/tmSg9h5qpA
China has dismantled the rule of law in Hong Kong, stunting the city's economic development. https://t.co/264mugdZ3m via @Jon_Hartley_
The U.S. and Britain have criticized Hong Kong's government over a proposed new national security law, saying it would curtail freedoms in the finance hub. https://t.co/NaKnGRr4J6
China slams foreign criticism of upcoming Hong Kong's Article 23 national security law https://t.co/wh1WVAGPrB https://t.co/Yz7NbA4igZ
⚠️ CHINA SLAMS FOREIGN CRITICISM OF UPCOMING HONG KONG'S ARTICLE 23 NATIONAL SECURITY LAW (Reuters) China on Thursday criticised British Foreign Secretary David Cameron and other foreign politicians for "smearing" an upcoming Hong Kong security law, as local authorities said… https://t.co/fTYbFk8Yap
We are particularly concerned by Hong Kong authorities’ Article 23 proposal to adopt broad and vague definitions of “state secrets” and “external interference” that could eliminate dissent through the fear of arrest and detention.
Hong Kong’s proposed new Article 23 security law breaches the handover deal between the UK and China, British Foreign Secretary @david_cameron said. The Chinese embassy in London hit back and criticized the UK's own national security legislation https://t.co/AcR1LAqvF8
Hong Kong’s new security legislation breaches the handover deal signed by the UK and China, says British Foreign Secretary David Cameron https://t.co/X0Y8kNh3ww
Hong Kong’s proposed Article 23 would allow the Chinese Communist Party to criminalize actions that are basic freedoms and fundamental rights. I stand with Hongkongers and urge HK authorities to reject this attack on pro-democracy advocates.
As co-signatory to the Sino-British Joint Declaration, the UK has a responsibility to ensure the rights and freedoms of the people of Hong Kong are maintained. Read @David_Cameron's statement on Article 23 national security proposals ⤵️