Hong Kong Retaliates Against France and Germany's Suspension of 'Criminal Extradition'

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyemin] The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government has temporarily suspended extradition treaties with France and Germany in accordance with directives from the Chinese central government, the People's Daily reported on the 12th.

The Hong Kong government announced that it would temporarily suspend the treaty with Germany and the treaty with France, which was about to come into effect, starting from that day. This move is a countermeasure in response to Western countries recently halting extraditions due to concerns over China's implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law and human rights issues.

The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs halted the ratification process of the extradition treaty with Hong Kong on the 3rd (local time). France's decision is a follow-up to the European Union (EU) decision led by Germany. On the 28th of last month, the EU announced sanctions including export restrictions to China, a review of extradition treaties, easing of visa requirements for Hong Kong residents, and activation of political asylum, citing issues related to the Hong Kong National Security Law.