Hong Kong national security law has once again become the center of international debate. On the fifth anniversary of its implementation, Western leaders raised concerns. Both the US Senate and the EU released statements critical of the law. They claimed it damaged human rights and the rule of law in Hong Kong. China quickly rejected these accusations. A spokesperson for the Office of the Commissioner of China’s Foreign Ministry in Hong Kong expressed strong opposition. He accused the US and EU of interfering in China’s internal affairs.
According to the spokesperson, Hong Kong national security law protects both sovereignty and public safety. He stated that the law does not weaken freedoms but strengthens stability. Moreover, he pointed to recent rankings to support the law’s impact. Hong Kong, he said, now ranks first globally in economic freedom. It remains the third-largest international financial center. Additionally, it ranks among the top three in global competitiveness and among the top ten in talent attraction.
These improvements, he argued, prove the effectiveness of the law. He emphasized that the national security law promotes long-term prosperity and protects both residents and foreign investors. The Chinese official accused Western politicians of double standards. He said they ignore their own human rights issues while targeting China. He also criticized the use of “freedom” as a cover for political manipulation.
Meanwhile, the Mission of China to the EU released a similar response. It rejected the EU’s statement marking the anniversary of the law. The mission accused the EU of making “groundless” remarks and interfering in China’s sovereignty. The mission said the national security law has improved Hong Kong’s legal system and strengthened its business environment. It also claimed that the majority of residents now enjoy better protections and public safety.
Furthermore, it warned that no one should break the law under the pretense of democracy. The mission stressed that Hong Kong’s legal system will hold lawbreakers accountable. Hong Kong national security law, according to Chinese authorities, is essential to long-term peace and development. China urged all foreign governments to respect its sovereignty and stop interfering in internal matters.
