China official in Hong Kong says some protest acts ‘terrorist in nature’

Hong Kong, May 25

China’s international ministry workplace in Hong Kong stated on Monday some actions throughout final yr’s pro-democracy protests have been “terrorist in nature” and “troublemakers” colluded with international forces, posing “imminent danger” to nationwide safety.

Xie Feng, commissioner of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong, made his remarks throughout a speech on proposed nationwide safety laws in Hong Kong, wherein he sought to reassure international buyers they might not be affected.

Xie stated the legislation tackled secession, subversion, international interference and terrorism and would solely have an effect on a small variety of residents, whereas for the remainder “there was absolutely no need to panic”.

“The legislation will alleviate the grave concerns among local and foreign business communities about the violent and terrorist forces,” Xie stated.

His feedback added to a refrain of strengthening authorities rhetoric in opposition to protesters within the Chinese-ruled metropolis, the place safety officers cited circumstances involving explosives “commonly used in terrorist attacks overseas” as a rising concern.

The proposed laws, which may additionally see Chinese intelligence businesses arrange bases in one of many world’s largest monetary hubs, despatched Hong Kong’s inventory market tumbling final week and drew condemnation from Western governments.

Pro-democracy activists worry it could restrict rights and freedoms assured below a “one country, two systems” settlement made with Britain on Hong Kong’s 1997 return to Chinese rule.

But Xie stated the laws would, in actual fact, strengthened it and rights can be preserved.

“Do not be intimidated or misled, exploited by those with ulterior motives and in particular, do not be a rumour monger yourself, or join the anti-China forces in stigmatising or demonising the legislation,” he stated, addressing “law-abiding citizens and foreign internationals who love Hong Kong”.

Warns US

China warned that it’ll take countermeasures if the United States insists on undermining its pursuits concerning Hong Kong, following the most recent feedback from Washington about attainable sanctions over new nationwide safety laws for the town.

Chinese international ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian informed reporters throughout a briefing that the United States is making an attempt to hurt China’s nationwide safety and stated Beijing has lodged stern representations with Washington over White House National Security Adviser Robert O’Brien’s feedback that the safety legislation for Hong Kong may result in US sanctions. — Reuters