Hong Kong protests: Nations step up to support citizens over 'outrageous' new security law

China said it reserves "the right to take corresponding measures" after the UK stepped in to offer support to Hong Kong residents
Imogen Braddick2 July 2020

A number of nations have stepped up to offer support to Hong Kong citizens after the introduction of an "outrageous" security law, prompting China to urge countries to "stop interfering" in its internal affairs.

Protesters took to the streets on Wednesday after the controversial law came into force on Tuesday night, which aims to tackle subversion, terrorism, separatism and collusion with foreign forces.

Police said 370 arrests were made for illegal assembly and other offences, with 10 involving violations of the new security law.

A man was also arrested at Hong Kong airport on suspicion of attacking an officer during the protests in the semi-autonomous territory.

The legislation imposed by China sets the stage for the most radical change to the former British colony's way of life since it returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

Hong Kong protests against a new national security law

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The law directly targets some of the actions of pro-democracy protesters last year, which included attacks on Government offices and police stations, damage to subway stations, and the shutdown of the city's international airport.

As the UK pushes forward with its plan to give three million Hong Kong residents the right to settle in the country, China said it reserves "the right to take corresponding measures".

Hundreds were arrested on Wednesday
AFP via Getty Images

Boris Johnson accused Beijing of a "clear and serious breach" of its treaty with Britain by imposing the new security law on the territory, while minister Simon Clarke said the UK will do "whatever is required" to support the people of Hong Kong.

Mr Johnson said he would introduce a route for people with British National (Overseas) (BNO) status to apply for visas to live and work in the UK and apply for citizenship.

In response, the Chinese Embassy in the UK said such a move would be in breach of "international law and basic norms governing international relations".

A statement issued on Thursday, it said: "We firmly oppose this and reserve the right to take corresponding measures.

"We urge the British side to view objectively and fairly the national security legislation for Hong Kong, respect China’s position and concerns, refrain from interfering in Hong Kong affairs in any way."

A man was arrested at Hong Kong airport after allegedly attacking a police officer during the protests
AP

The statement came as Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison signalled that his Government may follow Britain in offering visas to Hong Kong citizens.

Mr Morrison said the events in Hong Kong were concerning and the Australian government was "prepared to step up and provide support".

Asked if Australia would consider offering safe haven to Hong Kong people, similar to Britain, he replied: "We are considering very actively the proposals that I asked to be brought forward several weeks ago and the final touches would be put on those and they'll soon be considered by Cabinet to provide similar opportunities."

Police fired water cannons and tear gas during the protests
AFP via Getty Images

Responding to the comments, China's foreign ministry urged Australia to "stop interfering" in China's internal affairs.

Meanwhile, Japan is watching events in Hong Kong with "great interest", chief cabinet secretary Yoshihide Suga said on Thursday.

Mr Suga added that Japan's close business ties with Hong Kong were based on Hong Kong's "one country, two systems" governance.

Taiwan has also told its citizens to avoid unnecessary visits to Hong Kong, Macau or mainland China after the passing of the new law.

Chiu Chui-Cheng, deputy head of Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council, described the new law as "the most outrageous in history".

The same day the law came into force, Taiwan opened an office to help Hong Kong people who may wish to flee to the island. China has condemned Taiwan's offer of help.

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