China claims right to target individuals overseas under new ethnic unity law

This clause has raised concerns, particularly in Taiwan, about Beijing potentially using it as a legal basis to target individuals it deems separatists. Rights groups have also voiced worries about China's past use of Interpol "red notices" to seek the arrest of individuals abroad for political offenses.

During a news conference in Beijing, Hu Weilie addressed what he described as distortions and misinterpretations by certain Western media regarding the overseas provision. He emphasized that the provision is based on China's national conditions, conforms to legal principles, and is consistent with international practice. "It is a legitimate, lawful, necessary, and feasible legal provision," he stated.

Hu further explained that all countries have the right to prevent separatist and destructive activities through domestic legislation to maintain social solidarity and order. He added that the provision targets illegal acts and employs rule-of-law methods to guard against unlawful activities involving ethnic affairs originating from outside the country. Enforcing this provision, he concluded, will effectively safeguard China's sovereignty, security, and development interests, as well as the lawful rights and interests of all ethnic groups, without impacting normal people-to-people exchanges, academic discussions, or economic and trade cooperation.