HKSAR Government strongly disapproves of and firmly rejects remarks related to Hong Kong in US' 2022 Report on International Religious Freedom
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A spokesman for the HKSAR Government said, "The HKSAR Government strongly disapproves of and firmly rejects the US' attempt, through the so-called annual report once again, to smear and attack the HKSAR in its dutiful, faithful and lawful implementation of the NSL using the name of religious freedom to disguise its despicable political motives. Law enforcement actions taken by HKSAR law enforcement agencies have all along been based on evidence, strictly according to the law and for the acts of the individuals or organisations concerned, and have nothing to do with their political stance, background or religion."
The spokesman added, "Since the implementation of the NSL, the livelihood and economic activities of the community of Hong Kong at large have resumed as normal, and the business environment has been restored. Nonetheless, the US' so-called annual report has once again turned a blind eye to such reality and blatantly spread misleading and unfounded remarks relating to the NSL. The US' sinister intentions have again been clearly exposed."
The spokesman emphasised, "Hong Kong residents enjoy the rights and freedoms, including religious freedom and the freedom of speech, under the Basic Law, the Hong Kong Bill of Rights Ordinance and other relevant laws. The NSL clearly stipulates that human rights shall be respected and protected in safeguarding national security in the HKSAR. The rights and freedoms that Hong Kong residents enjoy under the Basic Law, and the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights as applied to Hong Kong, shall be protected in accordance with the law."
The spokesman reiterated, "The HKSAR Government steadfastly safeguards national sovereignty, security and development interests, and upholds the authority of the NSL. In accordance with the law, it resolutely carries out its duties and obligations to safeguard national security and, at the same time, protects the rights and freedoms that the residents of Hong Kong enjoy, ensuring the steadfast and successful implementation of 'one country, two systems'. The HKSAR Government strongly urges the US to immediately stop acting against the international law and basic norms of international relations and interfering in Hong Kong matters, which are purely China's internal affairs."
Ends/Tuesday, May 16, 2023
Issued at HKT 16:30
Issued at HKT 16:30
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