[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] The U.S. government has strongly criticized China during the 25th anniversary of Hong Kong's handover, accusing China of dismantling Hong Kong's democracy and violating freedom and the rules-based order.
According to CNN on the 30th (local time), Adrian Watson, spokesperson for the U.S. White House National Security Council (NSC), stated in a written comment released that "The 25th anniversary of Hong Kong's handover marks the midpoint of the 50 years of autonomy promised in the Sino-British Joint Declaration," but "What we are witnessing is the dismantling of Hong Kong's democratic institutions, unprecedented pressure on the judiciary, suppression of academic, cultural, and press freedoms, and the disbandment of dozens of human rights organizations and media outlets," he criticized.
He continued, "These actions undermine fundamental freedoms and the rules-based order that contribute to international stability," adding, "The aggressive enforcement of the National Security Law, which was enacted two years ago, has eliminated meaningful opposition and dissent. As a result, pro-democracy politicians in Hong Kong are either imprisoned, on trial, or have fled abroad," strongly condemning the situation.
Spokesperson Watson said, "China's policy toward Hong Kong has shaken the institutions, rules, and systems that were the foundation of Hong Kong's international confidence. These institutions, rules, and systems have underpinned Hong Kong's role as an economic hub," and added, "We emphasize the importance of Hong Kong's leaders respecting human rights and the freedoms of the Hong Kong people as stipulated in the Basic Law."
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