China Condemns Western Interference in Hong Kong Court Case

China has strongly condemned Western politicians for their "irresponsible remarks" regarding the Hong Kong court's trial of two editors from the "Stand News" media organization. The case, which marks the first incitement case involving a media organization since Hong Kong's return to China in 1997, is seen as a necessary step to safeguard national security and the rule of law in the region.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian expressed China's disapproval of attempts by some countries and institutions to exploit the case for political gain and interfere in China's internal affairs. He emphasized that Hong Kong residents enjoy full protection of their rights and freedoms, including freedom of the press, but that this freedom does not extend to illegal activities.

The Commissioner's Office of China's Foreign Ministry in Hong Kong, the Chinese Embassy in the UK, and the Chinese Mission to the EU also voiced their disapproval of the Western politicians' remarks. They accused these politicians of hypocrisy and double standards, pointing to their own countries' records of suppressing the media while using "press freedom" as a tool to attack China and Hong Kong.

Hong Kong solicitor Kennedy Wong Ying-ho dismissed the accusations as attempts to "confuse right and wrong and mislead the public." He clarified that Hong Kong residents enjoy freedom of the press and that the law clearly defines "sedition," ensuring that press freedom is not compromised.

The court's decision in the "Stand News" case sets a precedent for future cases and provides guidance on how media organizations can exercise their right to press freedom within the bounds of the law. This is seen as a crucial step in maintaining national security and the rule of law in Hong Kong.