Chief Secretary Eric Chan Kwok-ki reiterated that the government strongly disapproves of and rejects the annual report of the European Commission when meeting with the Head of Office of the European Union (EU) to Hong Kong.
The government asked for a meeting with Harvey Rouse on Monday (Sep 15) at the Central Government Offices.
Chan said the EU exposed their double standards as it pointed fingers at Hong Kong's legal system and enforcement mechanisms to safeguard national security, while totally disregarding the constitutional duty and practical needs of the city to legislate, and the positive effects brought by the enactment of the national security legislation on economic development and the protection of human rights.
He strongly urged the EU to respect facts, abide by international law and basic norms governing international relations, and immediately stop its long-arm jurisdiction and interference in Hong Kong matters.
The Chief Secretary stressed that when adjudicating cases concerning offence endangering national security, judges remain independent and impartial in performing their judicial duties as in any other cases and free from any interference.
Chan noted that the government will "continue to resolutely, fully and faithfully implement the Hong Kong National Security Law and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance so as to safeguard national security" and to protect the rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong people.
