Photo of a spokesman of China's foreign ministry, Wang Wendin
China has demanded that the European Union “stop meddling in Hong Kong affairs and Chin’s internal affairs”; after the Union decided to limit the sale of technology for use in Hong Kong, over concerns about its controversial new security law.
The European Union stated it would limit exports of surveillance equipment due to new security law which criminalises “terrorist activities” which includes campaigning for independence and colluding with foreign forces.
China and Hong Kong officials defend the new law saying its crucial for national security especially in wake of the recent anti-government protests.
EU response to the security bill
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Photo of Germany's Foreign Minister, Heiko Maas
The EU said on Tuesday the new law was “a matter of grave concern,” saying it restricts freedoms and undermines the rule of the law.
This decision was spearheaded by France and Germany, with many western countries criticizing the law for eroding Hong Kong’s rights to freedom.
Germany’s Foreign Minister Heiko Maas stated;
“if we want to maintain our values and principles in dealing with powers like China, we Europeans have to speak with one voice.”
However, EU members have found it difficult to unite on a position with China, an important trading partner.
China’s Response
Wang Wendin, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman said;
“the EU limit on export violates the basic international relations norm of non-interference in other countries’ international affairs.”
He went on to say, “China is firmly against the EU’s wrong moves.”
Beijing on Tuesday announced the suspension of extradition treaties with Canada, Australia and Britain, after they suspended extradition treaties with Hong Kong due to the new security law.
Read more from Morning Star Online, Global Times, Euro News, and The Wall Street Journal
