Hong Kong Slams U.S. Senators Over Sanctions Bill, Calls Move ‘Reprehensible’
The Hong Kong government has fiercely condemned a new U.S. Senate bill proposing sanctions on local judges and prosecutors, labeling the attempt to interfere in its judicial affairs as “reprehensible.” The legislation, introduced this week, targets forty-five individuals including top legal officials such as Chief Justice Andrew Cheung, Judge Alex Lee, and Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Anthony Chau—key figures in recent high-profile national security cases.
A Hong Kong government spokesperson stated the city “strongly condemns” the senators, emphasizing that safeguarding national security is a sovereign matter. “Our enforcement actions are evidence-based and fully in line with the law. No country or individual has the right to politically interfere with Hong Kong’s judicial process.”
The proposed “Hong Kong Judicial Sanctions Act” would mandate a U.S. government review on whether these individuals should face punitive measures under American law. A similar bill was introduced in the House earlier this year.
Meanwhile, Beijing’s top envoy in Hong Kong, Cui Jianchun, warned that rising unilateralism and protectionism from “certain large countries” are threatening global stability and Hong Kong’s development. Speaking at a diplomatic event, he criticized the use of unilateral sanctions and tariffs, calling them obstacles to international cooperation. “There are no winners in protectionism,” Cui said, reaffirming China’s commitment to peaceful development and mutual progress.
Hong Kong’s Chief Executive John Lee echoed the concern over global volatility, stating the city must leverage its unique position as a global hub to support China’s broader goals in international collaboration and cultural exchange.
The remarks come amid ongoing tensions between China and the United States, as the two powers continue to spar over issues of sovereignty, trade, and governance in Hong Kong.
The proposed “Hong Kong Judicial Sanctions Act” would mandate a U.S. government review on whether these individuals should face punitive measures under American law. A similar bill was introduced in the House earlier this year.
Meanwhile, Beijing’s top envoy in Hong Kong, Cui Jianchun, warned that rising unilateralism and protectionism from “certain large countries” are threatening global stability and Hong Kong’s development. Speaking at a diplomatic event, he criticized the use of unilateral sanctions and tariffs, calling them obstacles to international cooperation. “There are no winners in protectionism,” Cui said, reaffirming China’s commitment to peaceful development and mutual progress.
Hong Kong’s Chief Executive John Lee echoed the concern over global volatility, stating the city must leverage its unique position as a global hub to support China’s broader goals in international collaboration and cultural exchange.
The remarks come amid ongoing tensions between China and the United States, as the two powers continue to spar over issues of sovereignty, trade, and governance in Hong Kong.