Beijing slams UK’s ‘irresponsible remarks’ on Hong Kong in 6-monthly report

China has criticized the United Kingdom's latest six-month report on Hong Kong, labeling the remarks within it as "irresponsible." The UK's Foreign Secretary, Ed Miliband, expressed deep concern regarding the continued imprisonment of Jimmy Lai, a former media executive who received a 20-year sentence for national security offenses.

The UK report, released on Thursday, stated that Hong Kong's national security law has further reduced the city's openness, which was crucial to its success. Miliband highlighted Lai's case, along with recent developments in trials involving leaders of the Hong Kong Alliance and Joshua Wong, as reinforcing concerns about the broad application of national security legislation.

The UK reaffirmed its commitment to Hong Kongers and its support for those who have relocated to the UK via the British National (Overseas) visa route. The government emphasized its dedication to a strategic partnership with China, with Hong Kong's status as a financial center remaining central to this approach, while also vowing to defend the promised rights and freedoms of its people.