Urging reconsideration of the G7's decision
'Debate and consultation essential for freedom in Hong Kong'
According to the news agency AFP, China has expressed its objection to the joint statement issued by the G7 foreign ministers regarding the implementation of the national security law in Hong Kong.
A joint statement regarding the Hong Kong issue was released collaboratively by the governments of the G7 countries: the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the High Representative of the European Union.
Chinese displeasure with the law
The joint statement from the G7 foreign ministers expressed grave concern over China’s decision to implement a national security law in Hong Kong. The statement was supported by the foreign ministers of the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and Japan, as well as the United Kingdom and the EU's High Representative.
The joint statement expressed that China’s decision is inconsistent with its international obligations, under both the Basic Law of Hong Kong and the China-British Joint Declaration registered with the United Nations. The proposed national security law poses a serious threat to the 'One Country, Two Systems' principle and the region's high degree of autonomy. This threatens the very system that has allowed Hong Kong to thrive and succeed over the past years.
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Expressing concern in the joint statement, it was noted, 'We are also worried that this action will restrict the fundamental rights and freedoms protected by the rule of law and the existence of an independent judiciary for all people.'
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The member countries of the G7 urged in the joint statement, 'We urge the Chinese government to reconsider this decision.'
The series of events leading up to China's legislative move on Hong Kong is significant and closely watched worldwide. The international community remains wary of the challenges these developments pose to Hong Kong's semi-autonomy and governance.
