Beijing fires back: US sanctions are just 'a piece of waste paper'

Ayra Wang

The sanctioning of six officials from Hong Kong and China by the United States is just "a piece of waste paper," according to Beijing's Office for Safeguarding National Security in Hong Kong.

The US placed Dong Jingwei, director for the office, along with five Hong Kong officials on its sanctions list.

A spokesperson for the office yesterday said Washington's sanctions were "nothing but a piece of waste paper," RTHK reported.

"[The office] strongly condemned the actions of the United States and sternly warned that any attempt by external forces to interfere in Hong Kong's efforts to safeguard national security would be up against a brick wall," the spokesperson added.

Washington should stop its bullying tactics as soon as possible, the spokesperson added.

Beijing's liaison office said it is only natural and necessary for the Hong Kong government to target rioters who sought to endanger national security.

The others sanctioned were Secretary for Justice Paul Lam Ting-kwok, Commissioner of Police Raymond Siu Chak-yee, Assistant Commissioners of Police of National Security Dick Wong Chung-chun and Margaret Chiu Wing-lan and Secretary-General of the Committee for Safeguarding National Security of HKSAR Sonny Au Chi-kwong.

The SAR government strongly condemned the sanctions, calling it a blatant act of intimidation against those safeguarding national security.

"The attempt once again clearly exposed the US's barbarity under its hegemony, which is exactly the same as its recent tactics in bullying and coercing various countries and regions," a government spokesperson said. "Hong Kong despises such so-called sanctions and is not intimidated by such despicable behavior. SAR officials will continue to resolutely discharge the duty of safeguarding national security."

The administration also defended its legal actions against overseas-based activists wanted under the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, stressing that arrest warrants were issued based on evidence of national security offenses.

Lam said the sanctions were based on untenable reasons and "have no impact" on him.

He defended the city's national security law as in compliance with international law and fundamental principles of international relations.

The police force condemned US political pressure for interfering with Hong Kong law enforcement. The force vowed to resolutely uphold national security and strictly enforce the law.

ayra.wang@singtaonewscorp.com