Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said that she keeps 'piles of cash' at home because she has no bank account after the United States imposed sanctions on her.

Hong Kong leader says she has 'piles of cash' at home

The resignation of the 15 remaining pro-democracy lawmakers will ratchet up tensions over the future of Hong Kong

WION Dispatch: Hong Kong disqualifies 4 pro-democracy legislators

HONG KONG — Hong Kong’s pro-democracy lawmakers said Wednesday that they would resign en masse to protest Beijing’s growing control over the local legislature, one of the last remaining centers of dissent in the Chinese city.

The 15 resignations were set off by a decision earlier in the day out of Beijing that forced the removal of four opposition lawmakers in Hong Kong.

The lawmakers’ departure comes amid Beijing’s intensifying efforts to silence Hong Kong’s political opposition and to curb a vast protest movement.

Here’s a look at key moments in the long showdown between pro-democratic forces and the Beijing-backed authorities who have chipped away at Hong Kong’s special status as a bastion for free speech and independent courts.

<h2>Extradition bill incites enormous protests.</h2>

In May 2019, Hong Kong lawmakers scuffled over a bill that would allow extraditions to mainland China, where courts are controlled by the ruling Communist Party. That was followed by huge street protests, with organizers estimating that 1 million people marched on June 9, 2019, in a city of about 7.5 million.

Three days later, police fired tear gas at protesters who had blocked a major highway outside the Legislative Council, Hong Kong’s legislature. The heavy-handed response prompted another June march that organizers said drew nearly 2 million people.

On July 21, after protesters vandalized Beijing’s liaison office in Hong Kong, a mob attacked a group of protesters in a train station. Dozens were injured, including journalists and a pro-democracy legislator. The appearance of police inaction that night would fuel widespread anger toward the Hong Kong police force and suspicion that officers were unwilling to protect anti-government protesters.

In the months that followed, street clashes became routine between the police and black-clad protesters, who targeted symbols of authority, including local police stations and the city’s vaunted subway system.

Some protesters began carrying makeshift weapons, attacking opponents on the streets and vandalizing businesses seen as supporting the police and the government. A slogan from the “Hunger Games” films — “If we burn, you burn with us” — became a call to arms.

With Beijing’s support, the Hong Kong authorities began a no-compromise campaign of crowd suppression and arrests of demonstrators and pro-democracy activists.

<h2>A bill withdrawn, escalating violence and an election win.</h2>

Even as the arrests intensified, the protest movement claimed a major success: In September 2019, Hong Kong’s leader, Carrie Lam, withdrew the extradition bill.

The concession did not end the protests, though, and some began getting more intense. Confrontations on college campuses in mid-November began resembling medieval sieges, with students fortifying their campuses against police charges and sometimes even shooting arrows out toward riot police. The police continued their harsh tactics, using tear gas, batons, water cannons and rubber bullets.

But if Beijing officials were betting that the increase in violence would turn local opinion against the protest movement, they were wrong.

The movement earned a stunning victory in late November as pro-democracy candidates captured most of the seats in local elections for district councils. It was a vivid expression of defiance toward and anger with Beijing and their allies in Hong Kong’s leadership.

<h2>The pandemic strikes, and elections are put off.</h2>

After the pro-democracy movement’s election wins, a lull in protests set in for several weeks. Then, on New Year’s Day, demonstrators returned to the streets in full force in a protest that started peacefully but descended into violent clashes with the police.

But even as they marched, many protesters were expressing more trepidation than righteous anger. Mainland and Hong Kong officials had made clear they would not back down, and Hong Kong’s economy was showing signs of intense strain from the disruption.

The tone was already shifting, and then the coronavirus pandemic struck. As the new virus began spreading around the world, social-distancing rules and the imperative to stay home took even more steam out of the protest movement.

The Hong Kong government said the pandemic meant the legislative election scheduled for September would need to be postponed by a year. The opposition cried foul and said the government was afraid that establishment candidates would be defeated.

<h2>National security law imposed.</h2>

After a year of protests, and opposition election victories, Beijing had had enough.

In late June this year, the mainland government imposed an ominously vague and far-reaching national security bill on Hong Kong that targeted dissent and protest. Calls for Hong Kong to be independent were made illegal, and sabotaging transportation infrastructure, which became increasingly common during the protests, was designated as terrorism. A national security office was set up, and China’s state security apparatus, which had previously worked covertly in Hong Kong, was allowed to operate in public.

More than two dozen people have since been arrested under the new law. Most prominent among them was Jimmy Lai, founder of the city’s biggest pro-democracy newspaper, Apple Daily.

This week, Beijing officials went even further, granting the Hong Kong government broad powers to remove lawmakers from office who do not show clear loyalty to China.

Within minutes, Hong Kong officials removed the four lawmakers, prompting the other 15 members of the pro-democracy bloc to resign in protest. Their departures will leave the political opposition without a voice in the Hong Kong legislature, which had stood as a symbol of the “one country, two systems” framework intended to keep Hong Kong semi-autonomous until 2047.

HONG KONG — Hong Kong’s pro-democracy lawmakers said Wednesday that they would resign en masse to protest Beijing’s growing control over the local legislature, one of the last remaining centers of dissent in the Chinese city.

HONG KONG — Hong Kong’s pro-democracy lawmakers said Wednesday that they would resign en masse to protest Beijing’s growing control over the local legislature, one of the last remaining centers of dissent in the Chinese city. The 15 resignations were set off by a decision earlier in the day out of Beijing that forced the removal of four opposition lawmakers in Hong Kong. The lawmakers’ departure comes amid Beijing’s intensifying efforts to silence Hong Kong’s political opposition and to curb a vast protest movement. Here’s a look at key moments in the long showdown between pro-democratic forces and the Beijing-backed authorities who have chipped away at Hong Kong’s special status as a bastion for free speech and independent courts. Extradition bill incites enormous protests. In May 2019, Hong Kong lawmakers scuffled over a bill that would allow extraditions to mainland China, where courts are controlled by the ruling Communist Party. That was followed by huge street protests, with organizers estimating that 1 million people marched on June 9, 2019, in a city of about 7.5 million. Three days later, police fired tear gas at protesters who had blocked a major highway outside the Legislative Council, Hong Kong’s legislature. The heavy-handed response prompted another June march that organizers said drew nearly 2 million people. On July 21, after protesters vandalized Beijing’s liaison office in Hong Kong, a mob attacked a group of protesters in a train station. Dozens were injured, including journalists and a pro-democracy legislator. The appearance of police inaction that night would fuel widespread anger toward the Hong Kong police force and suspicion that officers were unwilling to protect anti-government protesters. In the months that followed, street clashes became routine between the police and black-clad protesters, who targeted symbols of authority, including local police stations and the city’s vaunted subway system. Some protesters began carrying makeshift weapons, attacking opponents on the streets and vandalizing businesses seen as supporting the police and the government. A slogan from the “Hunger Games” films — “If we burn, you burn with us” — became a call to arms. With Beijing’s support, the Hong Kong authorities began a no-compromise campaign of crowd suppression and arrests of demonstrators and pro-democracy activists. A bill withdrawn, escalating violence and an election win. Even as the arrests intensified, the protest movement claimed a major success: In September 2019, Hong Kong’s leader, Carrie Lam, withdrew the extradition bill. The concession did not end the protests, though, and some began getting more intense. Confrontations on college campuses in mid-November began resembling medieval sieges, with students fortifying their campuses against police charges and sometimes even shooting arrows out toward riot police. The police continued their harsh tactics, using tear gas, batons, water cannons and rubber bullets. But if Beijing officials were betting that the increase in violence would turn local opinion against the protest movement, they were wrong. The movement earned a stunning victory in late November as pro-democracy candidates captured most of the seats in local elections for district councils. It was a vivid expression of defiance toward and anger with Beijing and their allies in Hong Kong’s leadership. The pandemic strikes, and elections are put off. After the pro-democracy movement’s election wins, a lull in protests set in for several weeks. Then, on New Year’s Day, demonstrators returned to the streets in full force in a protest that started peacefully but descended into violent clashes with the police. But even as they marched, many protesters were expressing more trepidation than righteous anger. Mainland and Hong Kong officials had made clear they would not back down, and Hong Kong’s economy was showing signs of intense strain from the disruption. The tone was already shifting, and then the coronavirus pandemic struck. As the new virus began spreading around the world, social-distancing rules and the imperative to stay home took even more steam out of the protest movement. The Hong Kong government said the pandemic meant the legislative election scheduled for September would need to be postponed by a year. The opposition cried foul and said the government was afraid that establishment candidates would be defeated. National security law imposed. After a year of protests, and opposition election victories, Beijing had had enough. In late June this year, the mainland government imposed an ominously vague and far-reaching national security bill on Hong Kong that targeted dissent and protest. Calls for Hong Kong to be independent were made illegal, and sabotaging transportation infrastructure, which became increasingly common during the protests, was designated as terrorism. A national security office was set up, and China’s state security apparatus, which had previously worked covertly in Hong Kong, was allowed to operate in public. More than two dozen people have since been arrested under the new law. Most prominent among them was Jimmy Lai, founder of the city’s biggest pro-democracy newspaper, Apple Daily. This week, Beijing officials went even further, granting the Hong Kong government broad powers to remove lawmakers from office who do not show clear loyalty to China. Within minutes, Hong Kong officials removed the four lawmakers, prompting the other 15 members of the pro-democracy bloc to resign in protest. Their departures will leave the political opposition without a voice in the Hong Kong legislature, which had stood as a symbol of the “one country, two systems” framework intended to keep Hong Kong semi-autonomous until 2047.

How the dream of Hong Kong democracy was dimmed

China's Vice Premier Han Zheng today hailed Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam for rising to "challenges" while "controlling the pandemic" and "implementing the national security law".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/china-envisions-a-new-hong-kong-firmly-under-its-control-340596">Also Read:&nbsp;China envisions a new Hong Kong, firmly under its control</a>

"This year, under the central government's strong leadership, the chief executive has led the government of the special administrative region to conquer different difficulties," Zheng said, adding, "the central government firmly supports Chief Executive Carrie Lam."

Hong Kong's economy has been in a downturn since last year due to COVID-19 and strident anti-government protests.&nbsp;

"The central government firmly supports the government of the special administrative region to govern in accordance to the law," the Chinese vice premier added.

Last month, Lam had travelled to Shenzhen, which celebrating its 40th anniversary as a special economic trade zone.

Hong Kong was managed by China under the "One Country, Two Systems" model after the British left the island nation in 1997 and handed it back to China, however, last year pro-democracy activists challenged authorities in the financial hub riling Beijing.

As a result, the Chinese government threw its full support behind Lam as protests escalated.

After the national security law was passed in China, authorities resorted to mass arrests. The protests faded after the coronavirus pandemic hit the city and authorities clampdown on movement and put measures in place to stop unrest amid the upheaval.

China's Vice Premier Han Zheng today hailed Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam for rising to "challenges" while "controlling the pandemic" and "implementing the national security law".

China's Vice Premier Han Zheng today hailed Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam for rising to "challenges" while "controlling the pandemic" and "implementing the national security law". Also Read: China envisions a new Hong Kong, firmly under its control "This year, under the central government's strong leadership, the chief executive has led the government of the special administrative region to conquer different difficulties," Zheng said, adding, "the central government firmly supports Chief Executive Carrie Lam." Hong Kong's economy has been in a downturn since last year due to COVID-19 and strident anti-government protests. "The central government firmly supports the government of the special administrative region to govern in accordance to the law," the Chinese vice premier added. Last month, Lam had travelled to Shenzhen, which celebrating its 40th anniversary as a special economic trade zone. Hong Kong was managed by China under the "One Country, Two Systems" model after the British left the island nation in 1997 and handed it back to China, however, last year pro-democracy activists challenged authorities in the financial hub riling Beijing. As a result, the Chinese government threw its full support behind Lam as protests escalated. After the national security law was passed in China, authorities resorted to mass arrests. The protests faded after the coronavirus pandemic hit the city and authorities clampdown on movement and put measures in place to stop unrest amid the upheaval.

China applauds Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam for 'rising' to challenges of security law, COVID-19

&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;leader Carrie Lam will travel to Beijing next week for a three-day visit to discuss plans to revive the global financial hub's economy which has been battered by the COVID-19 pandemic and anti-government protests.

Lam, speaking at a weekly news briefing on Tuesday, said she would leave on November&nbsp;3 for the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen, where she will take a coronavirus test before traveling to Beijing.

"My trip to Beijing this time is solely on the economic side that is in light of the economic situation, which of course is very serious in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong," Lam said on Tuesday.

"We need more support measures from the mainland of China, especially in light of the overall direction that&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;should move to better integrate with the mainland of China especially in the Greater Bay Area."

The Beijing-backed leader postponed her annual policy address earlier this month in order to travel to the mainland for talks on how the central government can support the former British colony's economic recovery.

She said she still plans to deliver her policy address by the end of November.

Lam has repeatedly touted the importance of the Greater Bay area - a region that includes&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong, Macau, and nine cities in China's Guangdong province - as a key pillar to provide economic benefits to the Chinese-ruled city.

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;is reeling from the double blow of anti-government protests that plunged the city into its biggest crisis in decades last year and the impact of coronavirus.

Beijing imposed a national security law on&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;in June that punishes what authorities broadly define as secession, sedition and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in jail, following a year of sometimes violent demonstrations.

Western governments and international human rights groups have expressed concern the law will crush freedoms in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong.

Authorities in Beijing and&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;have said the law is necessary to bring stability to the city.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam will travel to Beijing next week for a three-day visit to discuss plans to revive the global financial hub's economy which has been battered by the COVID-19 pandemic and anti-government protests.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam will travel to Beijing next week for a three-day visit to discuss plans to revive the global financial hub's economy which has been battered by the COVID-19 pandemic and anti-government protests. Lam, speaking at a weekly news briefing on Tuesday, said she would leave on November 3 for the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen, where she will take a coronavirus test before traveling to Beijing. "My trip to Beijing this time is solely on the economic side that is in light of the economic situation, which of course is very serious in Hong Kong," Lam said on Tuesday. "We need more support measures from the mainland of China, especially in light of the overall direction that Hong Kong should move to better integrate with the mainland of China especially in the Greater Bay Area." The Beijing-backed leader postponed her annual policy address earlier this month in order to travel to the mainland for talks on how the central government can support the former British colony's economic recovery. She said she still plans to deliver her policy address by the end of November. Lam has repeatedly touted the importance of the Greater Bay area - a region that includes Hong Kong, Macau, and nine cities in China's Guangdong province - as a key pillar to provide economic benefits to the Chinese-ruled city. Hong Kong is reeling from the double blow of anti-government protests that plunged the city into its biggest crisis in decades last year and the impact of coronavirus. Beijing imposed a national security law on Hong Kong in June that punishes what authorities broadly define as secession, sedition and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in jail, following a year of sometimes violent demonstrations. Western governments and international human rights groups have expressed concern the law will crush freedoms in Hong Kong. Authorities in Beijing and Hong Kong have said the law is necessary to bring stability to the city.

Hong Kong leader to visit Beijing to discuss plans to revive economy

Amid tensions with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/justin-trudeau-vows-to-fight-against-chinas-treatment-of-uighur-and-hong-kong-335131">China </a>over Hong Kong, the US State Department in its&nbsp;first report to Congress under the Hong Kong Autonomy Act&nbsp;said "our ongoing objection to Beijing's actions that are intentionally designed to erode the freedoms of the people of Hong Kong and impose the CCP's oppressive policies."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prepare-for-war-be-absolutely-loyal-xi-jinping-tells-chinese-troops-335294">Also Read:&nbsp;Prepare for war, be absolutely loyal:, Xi Jinping tells Chinese troops</a>

The US report seeks to add ten people to its blacklist of "Specially Designated Nationals" including Hong Kong's chief executive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nine-arrested-on-suspicion-of-helping-12-flee-hong-kong-for-taiwan-334214">Carrie Lam</a>. The US government had earlier imposed sanctions against Lam and the nine others in August.

The Hong Kong Autonomy Act has already been passed by Congress.

On Monday, Carrie Lam postponed a keynote address after being ordered to travel to mainland China. Lam said she would also travel to Shenzhen where President Xi was set to make a speech.

It is not a matter of waiting for directions," Lam said, adding,"It is a matter of responding to a positive indication from the central government that they want to take into account the chief executive's recommendations, that they really want to facilitate those policy measures so that Hong Kong people have more confidence that the economy will bounce back."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-teacher-struck-off-for-holding-pro-independence-classes-332917">Hong Kong </a>is ruled under a "One Country, Two Systems" by China however after the passing of the national security law in June Western governments have roundly criticised Beijing's move. However, the Chinese government has thrown its weight behind Lam amid large scale protests witnessed earlier against the new bill.

Last year the Hong Kong chief executive had delivered her policy speech on video after being criticised by pro-democracy lawmakers.

Earlier this month, Hong Kong police had arrested several people amid protests as Carrie Lam hailed the city's "return to stability" at China national day celebrations as Lam attended a flag-raising ceremony with other senior officials.

"Over the past three months, the plain truth is, and it is obvious to see, that stability has been restored to society while national security has been safeguarded, and our people can continue to enjoy their basic rights and freedoms," Lam said.&nbsp;

Amid tensions with China over Hong Kong, the US State Department in its first report to Congress under the Hong Kong Autonomy Act said "our ongoing objection to Beijing's actions that are intentionally designed to erode the freedoms of the people of Hong Kong and impose the CCP's oppressive policies.

Amid tensions with China over Hong Kong, the US State Department in its first report to Congress under the Hong Kong Autonomy Act said "our ongoing objection to Beijing's actions that are intentionally designed to erode the freedoms of the people of Hong Kong and impose the CCP's oppressive policies." Also Read: Prepare for war, be absolutely loyal:, Xi Jinping tells Chinese troops The US report seeks to add ten people to its blacklist of "Specially Designated Nationals" including Hong Kong's chief executive Carrie Lam. The US government had earlier imposed sanctions against Lam and the nine others in August. The Hong Kong Autonomy Act has already been passed by Congress. On Monday, Carrie Lam postponed a keynote address after being ordered to travel to mainland China. Lam said she would also travel to Shenzhen where President Xi was set to make a speech. It is not a matter of waiting for directions," Lam said, adding,"It is a matter of responding to a positive indication from the central government that they want to take into account the chief executive's recommendations, that they really want to facilitate those policy measures so that Hong Kong people have more confidence that the economy will bounce back." Hong Kong is ruled under a "One Country, Two Systems" by China however after the passing of the national security law in June Western governments have roundly criticised Beijing's move. However, the Chinese government has thrown its weight behind Lam amid large scale protests witnessed earlier against the new bill. Last year the Hong Kong chief executive had delivered her policy speech on video after being criticised by pro-democracy lawmakers. Earlier this month, Hong Kong police had arrested several people amid protests as Carrie Lam hailed the city's "return to stability" at China national day celebrations as Lam attended a flag-raising ceremony with other senior officials. "Over the past three months, the plain truth is, and it is obvious to see, that stability has been restored to society while national security has been safeguarded, and our people can continue to enjoy their basic rights and freedoms," Lam said.

Trump administration targets Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam has postponed her annual policy address scheduled for Wednesday in order to go to Beijing for talks on how the central government can help with the financial hub's economic recovery.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam postpones annual policy address

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam has postponed her annual policy speech until she travels to Beijing to ask the Chinese central government for help with measures to help her city's battered economy.

Chief executive&nbsp;Carrie&nbsp;Lam&nbsp;had been due to make a key annual address on Wednesday outlining her administration's plans for the politically restless city.

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Lam's speech clashed with Chinese President Xi Jinping visit&nbsp;to the Chinese southern coastal city of Shenzhen to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the special economic zone.

She said she is postponing the address after submitting several proposed measures to Beijing seeking their support to help boost Hong Kong's economy, which has taken a battering due to the coronavirus pandemic and months of anti-government protests last year.

Lam said at a news conference that she will travel to Beijing at the end of October to participate in meetings with various ministries and commissions and see if the central authorities will support the proposed measures. She declined to give details on the proposals.

"It is a matter of responding to a positive indication from the central government that they want to take into account the chief executive's recommendations, that they really want to facilitate those policy measures so that&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;people have more confidence that the economy will bounce back."

The Chinese government has thrown its full support behind&nbsp;Lam, a pro-Beijing appointee, despite her dismal approval ratings.

The central government's role in the semi-autonomous former British colony has been in the spotlight, in particular with the imposition in June of a security law after months of pro-democracy protests - the most intense in decades - last year.

The protests were triggered in part by fears in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;that the central government was whittling away the freedoms granted when the city returned to Chinese rule in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula.

The protests and later the novel coronavirus have battered the city's economy with full year gross domestic product (GDP) forecast to contract 6&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;to 8 per cent.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam has postponed her annual policy speech until she travels to Beijing to ask the Chinese central government for help with measures to help her city's battered economy.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam has postponed her annual policy speech until she travels to Beijing to ask the Chinese central government for help with measures to help her city's battered economy. Chief executive Carrie Lam had been due to make a key annual address on Wednesday outlining her administration's plans for the politically restless city. Lam's speech clashed with Chinese President Xi Jinping visit to the Chinese southern coastal city of Shenzhen to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the special economic zone. She said she is postponing the address after submitting several proposed measures to Beijing seeking their support to help boost Hong Kong's economy, which has taken a battering due to the coronavirus pandemic and months of anti-government protests last year. Lam said at a news conference that she will travel to Beijing at the end of October to participate in meetings with various ministries and commissions and see if the central authorities will support the proposed measures. She declined to give details on the proposals. "It is a matter of responding to a positive indication from the central government that they want to take into account the chief executive's recommendations, that they really want to facilitate those policy measures so that Hong Kong people have more confidence that the economy will bounce back." The Chinese government has thrown its full support behind Lam, a pro-Beijing appointee, despite her dismal approval ratings. The central government's role in the semi-autonomous former British colony has been in the spotlight, in particular with the imposition in June of a security law after months of pro-democracy protests - the most intense in decades - last year. The protests were triggered in part by fears in Hong Kong that the central government was whittling away the freedoms granted when the city returned to Chinese rule in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula. The protests and later the novel coronavirus have battered the city's economy with full year gross domestic product (GDP) forecast to contract 6 per cent to 8 per cent.

Hong Kong leader delays major policy address until Beijing visit

Leader Carrie Lam hailed the territory’s “return to peace” after months of sometimes violent protests, as the Hong Kong government marked China’s National Day on September 30. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Hong Kong marks 'China National Day', Carrie Lam slams sanctions against China

Hong Kong celebrates China National Day: Lam slams sanctions against China

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam's has weighed in favoured of detained Hong Kong nationals being tried in mainland China. Saying that they had "committed a crime in another jurisdiction" she said that they needed to face legal liabilities.

Carrie Lam refuses to help 12 protesters arrested in China

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam said on Monday (September 22) that the 12 Hong Kong nationals recently detained in mainland China should be first tried by mainland authorities, citing that they had "committed a crime in another jurisdiction" for which they must face legal liabilities.

HK leader refuses to help activists: Activists were trying to flee Taiwan

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam's has weighed in favoured of detained Hong Kong nationals being tried in mainland China. Saying that they had "committed a crime in another jurisdiction" she said that they needed to face legal liabilities.

These 12 individuals were arrested by Chinese coast guard on August 23. These 12 persons were travelling in a boat that was bound for Taiwan. They were arrested after their boat entered Chinese waters. Carrie Lam's stand has meant a refusal to help these Hong Kong nationals.

"Isn't it reasonable and fair that these twelve people should first face their legal liabilities in that other jurisdiction according to the law, and thereafter of course we will arrange for them to come back to face consequences," Lam said at a weekly news conference.

Lam assured that the Hong Kong government would provide "assistance" to the detainees, but said the mainland authorities' ruling must be respected.

All 12 were suspected of committing crimes in Hong Kong related to anti-government protests that erupted last year. Ten had been charged, released on bail and not allowed to leave the former British colony, and all are now being detained in neighbouring Shenzhen.

(With Reuters inputs)

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam's has weighed in favoured of detained Hong Kong nationals being tried in mainland China. Saying that they had "committed a crime in another jurisdiction" she said that they needed to face legal liabilities. These 12 individuals were arrested by Chinese coast guard on August 23. These 12 persons were travelling in a boat that was bound for Taiwan. They were arrested after their boat entered Chinese waters. Carrie Lam's stand has meant a refusal to help these Hong Kong nationals. "Isn't it reasonable and fair that these twelve people should first face their legal liabilities in that other jurisdiction according to the law, and thereafter of course we will arrange for them to come back to face consequences," Lam said at a weekly news conference. Lam assured that the Hong Kong government would provide "assistance" to the detainees, but said the mainland authorities' ruling must be respected. All 12 were suspected of committing crimes in Hong Kong related to anti-government protests that erupted last year. Ten had been charged, released on bail and not allowed to leave the former British colony, and all are now being detained in neighbouring Shenzhen. (With Reuters inputs)

Hong Kong: Carrie Lam refuses to help 12 protesters arrested in China

Hong Kong Chief Executive&nbsp;Carrie&nbsp;Lam&nbsp;said on Monday (September 22) that the 12 Hong Kong nationals recently detained in mainland China should be first tried by mainland authorities, citing that they had "committed a crime in another jurisdiction" for which they must face legal liabilities.

The 12 were arrested on August 23 for illegal entry into mainland Chinese waters after setting off from Hong Kong in a boat bound for self-ruled Taiwan.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-leader-says-12-arrested-at-sea-by-china-should-accept-legal-liability-327631">Hong Kong leader says 12 arrested at sea by China 'should accept legal liability'</a>

Their failed bid to flee to Taiwan has highlighted the fears that many people feel in semi-autonomous Hong Kong about what they see as China's determination to end any push for greater democracy in the financial hub.

"Isn't it reasonable and fair that these twelve people should first face their legal liabilities in that other jurisdiction according to the law, and thereafter of course we will arrange for them to come back to face consequences,"&nbsp;Lam&nbsp;said at a weekly news conference.

Lam&nbsp;assured that the Hong Kong government would provide "assistance" to the detainees, but said the mainland authorities' ruling must be respected.

All 12 were suspected of committing crimes in Hong Kong related to anti-government protests that erupted last year. Ten had been charged, released on bail and not allowed to leave the former British colony, and all are now being detained in neighbouring Shenzhen.

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam said on Monday (September 22) that the 12 Hong Kong nationals recently detained in mainland China should be first tried by mainland authorities, citing that they had "committed a crime in another jurisdiction" for which they must face legal liabilities. The 12 were arrested on August 23 for illegal entry into mainland Chinese waters after setting off from Hong Kong in a boat bound for self-ruled Taiwan. Also read: Hong Kong leader says 12 arrested at sea by China 'should accept legal liability' Their failed bid to flee to Taiwan has highlighted the fears that many people feel in semi-autonomous Hong Kong about what they see as China's determination to end any push for greater democracy in the financial hub. "Isn't it reasonable and fair that these twelve people should first face their legal liabilities in that other jurisdiction according to the law, and thereafter of course we will arrange for them to come back to face consequences," Lam said at a weekly news conference. Lam assured that the Hong Kong government would provide "assistance" to the detainees, but said the mainland authorities' ruling must be respected. All 12 were suspected of committing crimes in Hong Kong related to anti-government protests that erupted last year. Ten had been charged, released on bail and not allowed to leave the former British colony, and all are now being detained in neighbouring Shenzhen.

Hong Kong leader says 12 detained activists should first be tried by China

Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie&nbsp;Lam on Tuesday said that the&nbsp;people arrested by China at sea while trying to flee the city by boat are not "democratic activists being oppressed" and "should accept the legal liabilities".

The 12 were arrested on August&nbsp;23 for illegal entry into mainland China after setting off from Hong Kong in a boat bound for self-ruled Taiwan, amid a crackdown by Beijing on pro-democracy activists in the former British colony.

Speaking at her regular weekly news conference,&nbsp;Lam&nbsp;reiterated that the 12 will have to face justice in the mainland and that her government will provide them and their families with the "needed and feasible" assistance.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/families-express-fear-over-china-capturing-12-hong-kongers-during-flee-attempt-327408" hreflang="en">Families express fear over China capturing 12 Hong Kongers during flee attempt</a>

"The reason for them leaving Hong Kong seems to be that they were running away from legal responsibility,"&nbsp;Lam&nbsp;said.

"I want to set the record straight, because certain local and overseas individuals tried to shift the attention, describing them as democratic (activists) being oppressed."

Lam's comments come after relatives of some of the detainees held a news conference on Saturday to demand their urgent return and plead for them to be allowed to call home and consult lawyers appointed by the families and not the Chinese government.

Hours before the families' appearance, US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the United States was deeply concerned about the activists, noting they had been denied access to lawyers.

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China's foreign ministry on Sunday labelled the group "separatists". Police in the Chinese city of Shenzhen, where they are being held, said on Sunday they were suspected of illegal entry, its first public notice on the matter.

23 for illegal entry into the mainland after taking off on a boat bound for Taiwan as pro-democracy activists fear Beijing's crackdown.

The government said all 12 were suspected of committing crimes in Hong Kong, with 11 charged with offences of arson and manufacturing or possessing of explosives. One was suspected of colluding with foreign forces, a charge under the national security law imposed by Beijing in June and could lead to life imprisonment.

Relatives of the 12, the youngest a boy aged 16, held a news conference on Saturday (September 12) demanding their return.

&nbsp;

Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam on Tuesday said that the people arrested by China at sea while trying to flee the city by boat are not "democratic activists being oppressed" and "should accept the legal liabilities".

Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam on Tuesday said that the people arrested by China at sea while trying to flee the city by boat are not "democratic activists being oppressed" and "should accept the legal liabilities". The 12 were arrested on August 23 for illegal entry into mainland China after setting off from Hong Kong in a boat bound for self-ruled Taiwan, amid a crackdown by Beijing on pro-democracy activists in the former British colony. Speaking at her regular weekly news conference, Lam reiterated that the 12 will have to face justice in the mainland and that her government will provide them and their families with the "needed and feasible" assistance. Also read: Families express fear over China capturing 12 Hong Kongers during flee attempt "The reason for them leaving Hong Kong seems to be that they were running away from legal responsibility," Lam said. "I want to set the record straight, because certain local and overseas individuals tried to shift the attention, describing them as democratic (activists) being oppressed." Lam's comments come after relatives of some of the detainees held a news conference on Saturday to demand their urgent return and plead for them to be allowed to call home and consult lawyers appointed by the families and not the Chinese government. Hours before the families' appearance, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the United States was deeply concerned about the activists, noting they had been denied access to lawyers. Respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms breeds vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous societies that flourish because their governments are accountable to their citizens. The U.S. will always stand for democracy. — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) September 15, 2020 × China's foreign ministry on Sunday labelled the group "separatists". Police in the Chinese city of Shenzhen, where they are being held, said on Sunday they were suspected of illegal entry, its first public notice on the matter. 23 for illegal entry into the mainland after taking off on a boat bound for Taiwan as pro-democracy activists fear Beijing's crackdown. The government said all 12 were suspected of committing crimes in Hong Kong, with 11 charged with offences of arson and manufacturing or possessing of explosives. One was suspected of colluding with foreign forces, a charge under the national security law imposed by Beijing in June and could lead to life imprisonment. Relatives of the 12, the youngest a boy aged 16, held a news conference on Saturday (September 12) demanding their return.

Hong Kong leader says 12 arrested at sea by China 'should accept legal liability'

Protests rage across Hong Kong after delay in local elections

China on Friday told UN experts to stop "meddling" in its affairs after the agency's special advisors published a letter raising fears for Hong Kong's freedoms after the enactment of a draconian new security law.

"Some people disregard facts and... crudely interfere in China's internal affairs," Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters, urging the UN advisors to stop "meddling" in its business.

UN&nbsp;human rights experts had told China that&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's&nbsp;new security law&nbsp;"infringes on certain fundamental rights" and voiced concerns that it could be used to prosecute political activists in the former British colony.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-has-no-legal-authority-to-enact-security-law-for-hong-kong-bar-association-301040">China has no legal authority to enact security law for Hong Kong: Bar Association</a>

Beijing has faced a barrage of criticism over the law, which was imposed in late June after pro-democracy protests rocked the semi-autonomous city last year.

The law, which criminalises secession, subversion, terrorism and colluding with foreign forces, carries a maximum life sentence and has intimidated many protesters into silence.

In a rare joint letter made public on Friday,&nbsp;the UN advisers warned parts of the legislation "appear to criminalise freedom of expression or any form of criticism" of China.

"The National Security Law... poses a serious risk that those fundamental freedoms and due process protections may be infringed upon," the rapporteurs said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/national-security-law-and-end-of-hong-kong-as-we-know-it-311585">National Security Law and end of Hong Kong as we know it</a>

The letter warned the legislation may "impinge impermissibly on the rights to freedom of opinion, expression and of peaceful assembly."

The rapporteurs had urged China's "reconsideration" of the legislation and for a fully independent reviewer to be appointed to ensure it complies with China's international human rights obligations.

They also expressed concern over one of the most controversial points of the law, which allows cases can be transferred from the jurisdiction of Hong Kong to mainland China, and warned it could undermine the right to a fair trial.

48 hours after it was sent to the Chinese government, they also said provisions of the new law appear to undermine the independence of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's judges and lawyers, and the right to freedom of expression.

The "open letter" reflected a detailed legal analysis of the national security law imposed in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;on June 30, which had already drawn UN&nbsp;criticism before its adoption.

The 14-page letter, posted on the website of the UN&nbsp;human rights office, was sent by Fionnuala Ni Aolain, UN&nbsp;special rapporteur on protecting human rights while countering terrorism, and six other UN&nbsp;experts.

The broadly worded law criminalised certain political speech overnight, such as advocating sanctions, and greater autonomy or independence for Hong Kong.

Lawyers acting for some of the more than 20 people arrested under the law so far say police are trawling through historic actions of pro-democracy activists to beef-up their cases.

China on Friday told UN experts to stop "meddling" in its affairs after the agency's special advisors published a letter raising fears for Hong Kong's freedoms after the enactment of a draconian new security law.

China on Friday told UN experts to stop "meddling" in its affairs after the agency's special advisors published a letter raising fears for Hong Kong's freedoms after the enactment of a draconian new security law. "Some people disregard facts and... crudely interfere in China's internal affairs," Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters, urging the UN advisors to stop "meddling" in its business. UN human rights experts had told China that Hong Kong's new security law "infringes on certain fundamental rights" and voiced concerns that it could be used to prosecute political activists in the former British colony. Also read| China has no legal authority to enact security law for Hong Kong: Bar Association Beijing has faced a barrage of criticism over the law, which was imposed in late June after pro-democracy protests rocked the semi-autonomous city last year. The law, which criminalises secession, subversion, terrorism and colluding with foreign forces, carries a maximum life sentence and has intimidated many protesters into silence. In a rare joint letter made public on Friday, the UN advisers warned parts of the legislation "appear to criminalise freedom of expression or any form of criticism" of China. "The National Security Law... poses a serious risk that those fundamental freedoms and due process protections may be infringed upon," the rapporteurs said. Also read: National Security Law and end of Hong Kong as we know it The letter warned the legislation may "impinge impermissibly on the rights to freedom of opinion, expression and of peaceful assembly." The rapporteurs had urged China's "reconsideration" of the legislation and for a fully independent reviewer to be appointed to ensure it complies with China's international human rights obligations. They also expressed concern over one of the most controversial points of the law, which allows cases can be transferred from the jurisdiction of Hong Kong to mainland China, and warned it could undermine the right to a fair trial. 48 hours after it was sent to the Chinese government, they also said provisions of the new law appear to undermine the independence of Hong Kong's judges and lawyers, and the right to freedom of expression. The "open letter" reflected a detailed legal analysis of the national security law imposed in Hong Kong on June 30, which had already drawn UN criticism before its adoption. The 14-page letter, posted on the website of the UN human rights office, was sent by Fionnuala Ni Aolain, UN special rapporteur on protecting human rights while countering terrorism, and six other UN experts. The broadly worded law criminalised certain political speech overnight, such as advocating sanctions, and greater autonomy or independence for Hong Kong. Lawyers acting for some of the more than 20 people arrested under the law so far say police are trawling through historic actions of pro-democracy activists to beef-up their cases.

China warns UN of 'meddling' in affairs after it denounced Hong Kong security law

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam says she has "returned" her honorary fellowship to a Cambridge college after a row over whether the finance hub's academic freedoms are being suppressed broke out.

China's authorities have cracked down on pro-democracy opponents in the city.

Chief Executive Carrie Lam said she was cutting ties with Cambridge's Wolfson College after it began looking into the state of academic liberty in Hong Kong. She said she was "deeply disappointed by the college smearing a person on the basis of hearsay instead of facts".

"Therefore I can hardly convince myself to maintain any relation with Wolfson College," she wrote on Facebook late Saturday alongside a photo of herself in leafy Cambridge.

Wolfson College said it had recently raised concerns with Hong Kong's leader about "her commitment to the protection of human rights and the freedom of expression".

Its governing body had been due to consider Lam's fellowship next month but would no longer do so now that Lam had returned the honour.

Lam, a pro-Beijing appointee, was one of a number of Chinese and Hong Kong officials sanctioned by the United States after Beijing imposed a sweeping security law on the semi-autonomous city in late June.

The said security law ramps up the Chinese Communist Party's control over the finance hub.

In the weeks that followed the imposition of the law, some two dozen pro-democracy supporters have been arrested under the new powers, including the owner of a Beijing-critical newspaper. Others have been disqualified from standing in local elections while libraries and schools have begun pulling any books deemed to breach the law.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam says she has "returned" her honorary fellowship to a Cambridge college after a row over whether the finance hub's academic freedoms are being suppressed broke out.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam says she has "returned" her honorary fellowship to a Cambridge college after a row over whether the finance hub's academic freedoms are being suppressed broke out. China's authorities have cracked down on pro-democracy opponents in the city. Chief Executive Carrie Lam said she was cutting ties with Cambridge's Wolfson College after it began looking into the state of academic liberty in Hong Kong. She said she was "deeply disappointed by the college smearing a person on the basis of hearsay instead of facts". "Therefore I can hardly convince myself to maintain any relation with Wolfson College," she wrote on Facebook late Saturday alongside a photo of herself in leafy Cambridge. Wolfson College said it had recently raised concerns with Hong Kong's leader about "her commitment to the protection of human rights and the freedom of expression". Its governing body had been due to consider Lam's fellowship next month but would no longer do so now that Lam had returned the honour. Lam, a pro-Beijing appointee, was one of a number of Chinese and Hong Kong officials sanctioned by the United States after Beijing imposed a sweeping security law on the semi-autonomous city in late June. The said security law ramps up the Chinese Communist Party's control over the finance hub. In the weeks that followed the imposition of the law, some two dozen pro-democracy supporters have been arrested under the new powers, including the owner of a Beijing-critical newspaper. Others have been disqualified from standing in local elections while libraries and schools have begun pulling any books deemed to breach the law.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam returns Cambridge fellowship over rights row

The United States and the United Kingdom along with Canada, Australia and New Zealand urged Hong Kong to hold elections as soon as possible and have warned the authorities about the moves to "undermine the democratic process".

The United States and the United Kingdom along with Canada, Australia and New Zealand urged Hong Kong to hold elections as soon as possible and have warned the authorities about the moves to "undermine the democratic process". Also read: US begins highest level Taiwan visit in decades Their statement comes after Chinese lawmakers convened to decide on the next steps after the election in the semi-autonomous city were postponed by a year due to coronavirus pandemic. The foreign ministers of the five countries have shown their "grave concern" towards Hong Kong government’s unjust disqualification of candidates and disproportionate postponement of Legislative Council elections. "These moves have undermined the democratic process that has been fundamental to Hong Kong’s stability and prosperity." They urged "the Hong Kong government to hold the elections as soon as possible". According to Hong Kong's current chief executive Carrie Lam, it would be logical to extend the term of the legislature at present. But the question remains on the four opposition lawmakers who have been disqualified from seeking re-election for breaching the new security law bill. These lawmakers were disqualified after calling for international sanctions on Beijing and Hong Kong. The foreign ministers of the five nations, in a statement, urged for the disqualified legislators to be reinstated. The joint statement from the five countries that share intelligence under the "Five Eyes" partnership said the security law was "eroding the Hong Kong people’s fundamental rights and liberties. "We support the legitimate expectations of the people of Hong Kong to elect Legislative Council representatives via genuinely free, fair, and credible elections," they added. On Friday, the United States imposed sanctions on a group of Chinese and Hong Kong officials, including Carrie Lam, involved in enforcing the highly controversial security law. (Inputs from AFP)

US, UK along with allies urge Hong Kong to hold elections as soon as possible

United States' Trump administration has sanctioned the Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam over her role in curtailing political freedom in the Hong Kong.

US sanctioned Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam over crackdown on protesters

The Trump administration has imposed sanctions on Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam over her role in curtailing the political freedom of the people of Hong Kong. Watch report.

US sanctions Carrie Lam | First sanctions against officials by US

The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam, the territory's current and former police chiefs and eight other officials for their role in curtailing political freedoms in the territory.

The sanctions were imposed under an executive order US&nbsp;President Donald Trump signed last month to punish China for its moves against dissent in Hong Kong and are the latest action by his administration against Beijing in the run-up to his November re-election bid.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-arms-sales-to-taiwan-violates-one-china-principle-china-318830" hreflang="en">US arms sales to Taiwan violates 'One China' principle: China</a>

As well as Lam, the sanctions target Hong Kong Police commissioner Chris Tang and his predecessor Stephen Lo; John Lee Ka-chiu, Hong Kong's secretary of security, and Teresa Cheng, the justice secretary, the US&nbsp;Treasury Department said in a statement.

It said Beijing's imposition of draconian national security legislation had undermined Hong Kong's autonomy and allowed mainland security services to operate with impunity, "setting the groundwork for censorship of any individuals or outlets that are deemed unfriendly to China."

"Carrie Lam is the chief executive directly responsible for implementing Beijing’s policies of suppression of freedom and democratic processes," it said.

“The United States stands with the people of Hong Kong and we will use our tools and authorities to target those undermining their autonomy,” Secretary of the Treasury Steven Mnuchin said in the statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-accuses-us-of-political-manipulation-over-tiktok-wechat-ban-318816" hreflang="en">China accuses US of 'political manipulation' over TikTok, WeChat ban</a>

The sanctions freeze any US&nbsp;asset of the officials and generally bar Americans from doing business with them.

Tensions between the United States and China have been increasing daily. China's foreign ministry said on Friday it firmly opposes executive orders that Trump announced this week to ban US&nbsp;transactions with the Chinese owners of the WeChat and TikTok apps.

Last month, Carrie Lam postponed a Sept. 6 election to Hong Kong's legislature by a year because of a rise in coronavirus cases, dealing a blow to the pro-democracy opposition that had hoped to make huge gains.

The United States condemned the action, saying it was the latest example of Beijing undermining democracy in the Chinese-ruled territory.

A source familiar with the matter said US&nbsp;deliberations on the sanctions intensified after the election postponement.

The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam, the territory's current and former police chiefs and eight other officials for their role in curtailing political freedoms in the territory.

The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam, the territory's current and former police chiefs and eight other officials for their role in curtailing political freedoms in the territory. The sanctions were imposed under an executive order US President Donald Trump signed last month to punish China for its moves against dissent in Hong Kong and are the latest action by his administration against Beijing in the run-up to his November re-election bid. Also read: US arms sales to Taiwan violates 'One China' principle: China As well as Lam, the sanctions target Hong Kong Police commissioner Chris Tang and his predecessor Stephen Lo; John Lee Ka-chiu, Hong Kong's secretary of security, and Teresa Cheng, the justice secretary, the US Treasury Department said in a statement. It said Beijing's imposition of draconian national security legislation had undermined Hong Kong's autonomy and allowed mainland security services to operate with impunity, "setting the groundwork for censorship of any individuals or outlets that are deemed unfriendly to China." "Carrie Lam is the chief executive directly responsible for implementing Beijing’s policies of suppression of freedom and democratic processes," it said. “The United States stands with the people of Hong Kong and we will use our tools and authorities to target those undermining their autonomy,” Secretary of the Treasury Steven Mnuchin said in the statement. Also read: China accuses US of 'political manipulation' over TikTok, WeChat ban The sanctions freeze any US asset of the officials and generally bar Americans from doing business with them. Tensions between the United States and China have been increasing daily. China's foreign ministry said on Friday it firmly opposes executive orders that Trump announced this week to ban US transactions with the Chinese owners of the WeChat and TikTok apps. Last month, Carrie Lam postponed a Sept. 6 election to Hong Kong's legislature by a year because of a rise in coronavirus cases, dealing a blow to the pro-democracy opposition that had hoped to make huge gains. The United States condemned the action, saying it was the latest example of Beijing undermining democracy in the Chinese-ruled territory. A source familiar with the matter said US deliberations on the sanctions intensified after the election postponement.

US imposes sanctions on Hong Kong's Lam, other officials over crackdown

Hong Kong's national security law imposed by Beijing last week was not "doom and gloom" for the city, its leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday, adding it was untrue to say she was not privy to any of its details before they were announced.

Hong Kong's national security law imposed by Beijing last week was not "doom and gloom" for the city, its leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday, adding it was untrue to say she was not privy to any of its details before they were announced. The sweeping legislation punishes what China describes broadly as secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces, with up to life in prison. It came into force at the same time it was made public just before midnight last Tuesday, with police arresting about 10 people for related offences the next day. Speaking at her regular weekly news conference, Lam said she knew some details of the legislation before it was made public, but she had not seen the complete draft. She said the law would restore Hong Kong's status as one of the safest cities in the world after sometimes violent pro-democracy protests last year. "Compared with the national security laws of other countries, it is a rather mild law. Its scope is not as broad as that in other countries and even China," Lam said, without naming the countries. The legislation has been criticised by nations such as Britain and the United States, and rights groups, for undermining freedoms guaranteed under the "one country, two systems" agreed as part of the former British colony's return to Chinese rule in 1997, and for giving mainland security agencies an enforcement presence in Hong Kong for the first time. Its final power of interpretation lies with authorities in mainland China, where human rights groups have reported arbitrary detentions and disappearances. China has been clamping down on dissent and tightening censorship. Both Hong Kong and Chinese government officials have said the law was vital to plug gaping holes in national security defences, exposed by the city’s failure to pass such laws by itself as required under its mini-constitution, the Basic Law. Lam said cases involving the new mainland agency in Hong Kong will be "rare" and that national security was a "red line" that should not be crossed. If reporters in Hong Kong could guarantee they would not breach the new law, she could guarantee they would be allowed to report freely in the city, Lam said. Late on Monday, Hong Kong released additional details of the law, saying security forces had overriding authority to enter and search properties for evidence and stop people from leaving the city.

Hong Kong security law is not 'doom and gloom,' city leader says

Hong Kong's national security law does not spell "doom and gloom", its leader said on Tuesday, as she tried to calm unease over legislation that critics say could quash freedoms that have underpinned the city's success as a financial hub.

In an illustration of worries about the law, the video app TikTok said it was preparing to leave the Hong Kong market, and other tech firms said they have suspended processing Hong Kong government requests for user data.

The sweeping legislation that Beijing imposed on the former British colony punishes what China defines as secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces, with up to life in prison.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/opinions-blogs/why-hong-kong-will-remain-an-international-financial-centre-despite-new-security-law-311344" hreflang="en">Why Hong Kong will remain an international financial centre, despite new security law</a>

It came into force at the same time it was made public, just before midnight last Tuesday, with police arresting more than 300 people in protests the next day - about 10 of them, including a 15-year-old, for suspected violations of it.

"Surely, this is not doom and gloom for Hong Kong," the city's Beijing-backed leader, Carrie Lam, told a weekly news conference.

"I'm sure, with the passage of time ... confidence will grow in 'one country, two systems' and in Hong Kong's future."

The legislation has been criticised by democracy activists and Western governments, for undermining freedoms guaranteed under a "one country, two systems" formula agreed when Hong Kong return to Chinese rule in 1997.

Both Hong Kong and Chinese officials have said the law, which gives mainland security agencies an enforcement presence in the city for the first time, was vital to plug holes in national security defences, exposed by the city’s failure to pass such legislation itself as required under its mini-constitution, the Basic Law.

Lam said cases involving the new mainland agents would be "rare", but nevertheless, national security was a "red line" that should not be crossed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/were-next-hong-kong-security-law-sends-chills-through-taiwan-311335" hreflang="en">'We're next': Hong Kong security law sends chills through Taiwan</a>

The legislation was not harsh when compared with that of other countries, she said.

"It is a rather mild law. Its scope is not as broad as that in other countries and even China," she said.

Critics say the aim of the law is to stamp out a pro-democracy movement that brought months of protests, at times violent, to the city last year.

Late on Monday, Hong Kong released details of how the law would be implemented, outlining police powers over the internet, including the ability to ask publishers to remove information deemed a threat to national security.

Internet firms and their staff face fines and up to one year in jail if they do not comply and police can seize their equipment. The companies are also expected to provide identification records and decryption assistance.

But Lam said she had not noticed widespread fears and the law would restore the city's status as one of the safest in the world after the violent pro-democracy protests last year.&nbsp;

'TIME AND FACTS'&nbsp;

Despite her assurances, the law has had a chilling effect.

"If Hong Kong police and the government do not get information from Facebook, they may have other means," said 45-year-old playwright Yan Pat-To.&nbsp;

"The fear has spread over freedom of expression."&nbsp;

Shortly after the law came into force, pro-democracy activists such as Joshua Wong disbanded their organisations while others have left.

Many shops have removed protest-related products and decorations and public libraries have removed some books seen as supportive of the democracy movement. Canada has suspended an extradition treaty with Hong Kong.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/facebook-google-twitter-block-hong-kong-govt-from-accessessing-user-data-311243" hreflang="en">Facebook, Google, Twitter block Hong Kong govt from accessessing user data</a>

TikTok, a video app owned by China-based ByteDance said it would exit the Hong Kong market within days.&nbsp;

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said late on Monday the United States was "certainly looking at" banning Chinese social media apps, including TikTok, amid concern they were not in a position to decline Chinese government requests.

TikTok, which has sought to emphasise its independence from China, has been banned in India.

Facebook Inc, which also owns WhatsApp and Instagram, Google Inc and Twitter Inc suspended processing government requests for user data in Hong Kong.

The final power of interpretation of the law lies with authorities in mainland China, where human rights groups have reported arbitrary detentions and disappearances. China has been clamping down on dissent and tightening censorship.

China's official Procuratorial Daily paper said authorities had launched a special taskforce to ramp up political policing to maintain social stability.&nbsp;

The news came on the day that Xu Zhangrun, a Beijing law professor who has been an outspoken critic of the ruling Communist Party and President Xi Jinping, was taken away by authorities.

Lam, asked about media freedom, said if reporters could guarantee they would not breach the new law, she could guarantee they would be allowed to report freely.

"Ultimately, time and facts will tell that this law will not undermine human rights and freedoms," she said.

Hong Kong's national security law does not spell "doom and gloom", its leader said on Tuesday, as she tried to calm unease over legislation that critics say could quash freedoms that have underpinned the city's success as a financial hub.

Hong Kong's national security law does not spell "doom and gloom", its leader said on Tuesday, as she tried to calm unease over legislation that critics say could quash freedoms that have underpinned the city's success as a financial hub. In an illustration of worries about the law, the video app TikTok said it was preparing to leave the Hong Kong market, and other tech firms said they have suspended processing Hong Kong government requests for user data. The sweeping legislation that Beijing imposed on the former British colony punishes what China defines as secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces, with up to life in prison. Also read: Why Hong Kong will remain an international financial centre, despite new security law It came into force at the same time it was made public, just before midnight last Tuesday, with police arresting more than 300 people in protests the next day - about 10 of them, including a 15-year-old, for suspected violations of it. "Surely, this is not doom and gloom for Hong Kong," the city's Beijing-backed leader, Carrie Lam, told a weekly news conference. "I'm sure, with the passage of time ... confidence will grow in 'one country, two systems' and in Hong Kong's future." The legislation has been criticised by democracy activists and Western governments, for undermining freedoms guaranteed under a "one country, two systems" formula agreed when Hong Kong return to Chinese rule in 1997. Both Hong Kong and Chinese officials have said the law, which gives mainland security agencies an enforcement presence in the city for the first time, was vital to plug holes in national security defences, exposed by the city’s failure to pass such legislation itself as required under its mini-constitution, the Basic Law. Lam said cases involving the new mainland agents would be "rare", but nevertheless, national security was a "red line" that should not be crossed. Also read: 'We're next': Hong Kong security law sends chills through Taiwan The legislation was not harsh when compared with that of other countries, she said. "It is a rather mild law. Its scope is not as broad as that in other countries and even China," she said. Critics say the aim of the law is to stamp out a pro-democracy movement that brought months of protests, at times violent, to the city last year. Late on Monday, Hong Kong released details of how the law would be implemented, outlining police powers over the internet, including the ability to ask publishers to remove information deemed a threat to national security. Internet firms and their staff face fines and up to one year in jail if they do not comply and police can seize their equipment. The companies are also expected to provide identification records and decryption assistance. But Lam said she had not noticed widespread fears and the law would restore the city's status as one of the safest in the world after the violent pro-democracy protests last year. 'TIME AND FACTS' Despite her assurances, the law has had a chilling effect. "If Hong Kong police and the government do not get information from Facebook, they may have other means," said 45-year-old playwright Yan Pat-To. "The fear has spread over freedom of expression." Shortly after the law came into force, pro-democracy activists such as Joshua Wong disbanded their organisations while others have left. Many shops have removed protest-related products and decorations and public libraries have removed some books seen as supportive of the democracy movement. Canada has suspended an extradition treaty with Hong Kong. Also read: Facebook, Google, Twitter block Hong Kong govt from accessessing user data TikTok, a video app owned by China-based ByteDance said it would exit the Hong Kong market within days. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said late on Monday the United States was "certainly looking at" banning Chinese social media apps, including TikTok, amid concern they were not in a position to decline Chinese government requests. TikTok, which has sought to emphasise its independence from China, has been banned in India. Facebook Inc, which also owns WhatsApp and Instagram, Google Inc and Twitter Inc suspended processing government requests for user data in Hong Kong. The final power of interpretation of the law lies with authorities in mainland China, where human rights groups have reported arbitrary detentions and disappearances. China has been clamping down on dissent and tightening censorship. China's official Procuratorial Daily paper said authorities had launched a special taskforce to ramp up political policing to maintain social stability. The news came on the day that Xu Zhangrun, a Beijing law professor who has been an outspoken critic of the ruling Communist Party and President Xi Jinping, was taken away by authorities. Lam, asked about media freedom, said if reporters could guarantee they would not breach the new law, she could guarantee they would be allowed to report freely. "Ultimately, time and facts will tell that this law will not undermine human rights and freedoms," she said.

National security a 'red line', Hong Kong leader says

Despite this, many leading PR companies chose not to take part in the bidding process, with some raising concerns about potential ethical conflicts

Carrie Lam hires UK based PR firm to improve image

Hong Kong government has entered into a contract with a UK-based PR firm worth over £5m to improve its global image amid widespread criticism.&nbsp;

The Hong Kong adminsitration said its contract with London-based firm Consulum will be of one-year, which would help in rebuilding "confidence in Hong Kong as a place to invest, do business, work and live", reported Independent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-breaching-international-law-warns-china-as-pm-johnson-promises-citizenship-to-hong-kongers-310119">UK breaching international law, warns China as PM Johnson promises citizenship to Hong Kongers</a>&nbsp;

The document titled as 'Relaunch Hong Kong' and first reported by industry website Provoke, acknowledged that the Hong Kong government did not effectively "defend" itself or "mobilise" the community to support law enforcement measures and condemn acts, including "vandalism and the criminal and violent behaviour of rioters".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-uks-passport-plan-australia-working-on-safe-haven-proposal-for-hong-kong-residents-310096">After UK's passport plan, Australia working on 'safe haven' proposal for Hong Kong residents</a>

"This had a negative impact on global perceptions about Hong Kong," the document said.&nbsp;

The £5.6m contract was finalised after a bid from seven PR firms across the world. Consulum was earlier criticised for working with Saudi administration.&nbsp;

Hong Kong administration has started defending the contract, with Brett Free, deputy director of information, saying that it would allow the region to "reconnect with global audiences".&nbsp;

The contract came at a time when several countries and pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong have slammed China's new security law that aimed to tighten control over the semi-autonomous region.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, police used water cannon, pepper spray and tear gas in clashes with protesters and arrested 370 people who were demonstrating against the legislation imposed by China on Tuesday. 
&nbsp;

Hong Kong government has entered into a contract with a UK-based PR firm worth over £5m to improve its global image amid widespread criticism. The Hong Kong adminsitration said its contract with London-based firm Consulum will be of one-year, which would help in rebuilding "confidence in Hong Kong as a place to invest, do business, work and live", reported Independent.

Hong Kong government has entered into a contract with a UK-based PR firm worth over £5m to improve its global image amid widespread criticism. The Hong Kong adminsitration said its contract with London-based firm Consulum will be of one-year, which would help in rebuilding "confidence in Hong Kong as a place to invest, do business, work and live", reported Independent. Also read | UK breaching international law, warns China as PM Johnson promises citizenship to Hong Kongers The document titled as 'Relaunch Hong Kong' and first reported by industry website Provoke, acknowledged that the Hong Kong government did not effectively "defend" itself or "mobilise" the community to support law enforcement measures and condemn acts, including "vandalism and the criminal and violent behaviour of rioters". Also read | After UK's passport plan, Australia working on 'safe haven' proposal for Hong Kong residents "This had a negative impact on global perceptions about Hong Kong," the document said. The £5.6m contract was finalised after a bid from seven PR firms across the world. Consulum was earlier criticised for working with Saudi administration. Hong Kong administration has started defending the contract, with Brett Free, deputy director of information, saying that it would allow the region to "reconnect with global audiences". The contract came at a time when several countries and pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong have slammed China's new security law that aimed to tighten control over the semi-autonomous region. On Wednesday, police used water cannon, pepper spray and tear gas in clashes with protesters and arrested 370 people who were demonstrating against the legislation imposed by China on Tuesday.

Hong Kong govt enters into £5m contract with PR firm to improve global image

Eric Chan, Director of the Chief Executive's office, is to take up the role at the Committee for Safeguarding National Security

Bureaucrat Eric Chan to head Hong Kong's national Security Committee

In 1984, British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and then Chinese Premier Zhao Ziyang signed the Sino-British agreement, which gave China control over Hong Kong starting July 1997.

A part of this deal was China’s basic policies towards HK to “remain unchanged for 50 years”, with a high degree of autonomy.

This also meant its legal and judicial systems would remain unchanged for 50 years after 1997.

Special administrative region

On July 1, 1997, Hong Kong became a special administrative region, with its own mini constitution, legal system, and democratic rights. Free speech and the freedom of assembly were also guaranteed.&nbsp; 
 
On July 1, 2007, the city's then chief executive Donald Tsang was sworn in at a ceremony marking the 10th anniversary of the city’s return to china.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-story-of-hong-kong-309759/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

2009 witnessed the largest turnout at Hong Kong's annual Tiananmen square vigil.

In 2014, Beijing announced that only leaders vetted by China would head the city. This triggers the “occupy movement”.

In 2016, five booksellers, including a British and Swedish national disappeared. All of them were linked to a publisher who specialised in books on the Communist Party of China.

In 2017, Carrie Lam is sworn in as the new leader of Hong Kong. On April 3, 2019, a law to allow extradition to the mainland is tabled, which triggered pro-democracy protests across the city, until the law was panned.

On July 1, 2019, protesters attacked Hong Kong’s legislative council in a series of anti-China protests.

This year marks 23 years since Hong Kong was handed back to China.

What lies for Hong Kong?

Currently, Hong Kong today is one of the world's key financial centres, and very different from mainland China. A multicultural city, it has a sizeable international community with a booming economy.

Until recently, the city also had a favourable relationship with the United States.

In 1984, British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and then Chinese Premier Zhao Ziyang signed the Sino-British agreement, which gave China control over Hong Kong starting July 1997.

In 1984, British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and then Chinese Premier Zhao Ziyang signed the Sino-British agreement, which gave China control over Hong Kong starting July 1997. A part of this deal was China’s basic policies towards HK to “remain unchanged for 50 years”, with a high degree of autonomy. This also meant its legal and judicial systems would remain unchanged for 50 years after 1997. Special administrative region On July 1, 1997, Hong Kong became a special administrative region, with its own mini constitution, legal system, and democratic rights. Free speech and the freedom of assembly were also guaranteed. On July 1, 2007, the city's then chief executive Donald Tsang was sworn in at a ceremony marking the 10th anniversary of the city’s return to china. 2009 witnessed the largest turnout at Hong Kong's annual Tiananmen square vigil. In 2014, Beijing announced that only leaders vetted by China would head the city. This triggers the “occupy movement”. In 2016, five booksellers, including a British and Swedish national disappeared. All of them were linked to a publisher who specialised in books on the Communist Party of China. In 2017, Carrie Lam is sworn in as the new leader of Hong Kong. On April 3, 2019, a law to allow extradition to the mainland is tabled, which triggered pro-democracy protests across the city, until the law was panned. On July 1, 2019, protesters attacked Hong Kong’s legislative council in a series of anti-China protests. This year marks 23 years since Hong Kong was handed back to China. What lies for Hong Kong? Currently, Hong Kong today is one of the world's key financial centres, and very different from mainland China. A multicultural city, it has a sizeable international community with a booming economy. Until recently, the city also had a favourable relationship with the United States.

A timeline of China's excesses in Hong Kong leading up to the national security law

United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday announced officially that his country would offer immigration rights to the people of Hong Kong in the aftermath of China passing the controversial national security law in Hong Kong.

Even though China claims it will let Hong Kong take care of its affairs, in rare circumstances people could be extradited to mainland China. In essence, this law materialises the goals of the now-panned extradition law while effectively ensuring no dissent against Chinese administration brews in the financial hub.

In pictures:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/timeline-of-hong-kongs-struggle-against-chinese-hegemony-309674" hreflang="en">Timeline of Hong Kong's struggle against Chinese hegemony</a>

Even before the law was formalised, the UK had promised assistance to Hong Kongers if China went ahead with the legislation. As per this promise, those in possession of the British National Overseas passport could live in the UK, and work there. This would pave way for citizenship.

"That is precisely what we will do now," Johnson told the parliament.

Earlier, authorities had claimed that the law would be used to weed out “terrorists” from the city, while alluding to the year-long protests in the city which ended in a lot of violence, and only simmered down with the advent of COVID-19.

Activists go MIA

In the backdrop of China passing its controversial national security law in Hong Kong, activist groups in the city have disappeared from social media, and most pro-democracy campaigns shut fearing repercussions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/none-of-your-business-china-slams-foreign-critics-over-hong-kong-law-309907" hreflang="en">'None of your business': China slams foreign critics over Hong Kong law</a>

Fearing jail time, or worse, naysayers of the Chinese government will be put in prison for three-ten years depending on the gravity of crimes. Those who commit “serious crimes” may also face life imprisonment.

What emerged as a protest against China’s now scrapped extradition law for Hong Kongers, turned into a larger demand for democracy and against Chinese influence in the city.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/hong-kongs-handover-anniversary-police-fire-water-cannons-on-protestors-hk-security-law-309899/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

23 years of handover

On July 1, Hong Kong marks 23 years since it was returned to China by Britain, as part of the “one country, two systems” deal, which gives special privileges to the people of Hong Kong which are not available elsewhere in the Chinese mainland.

Additionally, the city is judged by its mini-constitution called “Basic law”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-leader-carrie-lam-says-national-security-law-wont-undermine-autonomy-309637" hreflang="en">Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam says national security law won't undermine autonomy</a>

With the goal to stifle anti-government protests, the legislation criminalises subversion, secession, terrorism, and working with foreign forces. The sedition aspect of the law essentially make any critique of the Chinese government illegal.

Any actions by people qualifying as “endangering the state” may be used to arrest people.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday announced officially that his country would offer immigration rights to the people of Hong Kong in the aftermath of China passing the controversial national security law in Hong Kong.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday announced officially that his country would offer immigration rights to the people of Hong Kong in the aftermath of China passing the controversial national security law in Hong Kong. Even though China claims it will let Hong Kong take care of its affairs, in rare circumstances people could be extradited to mainland China. In essence, this law materialises the goals of the now-panned extradition law while effectively ensuring no dissent against Chinese administration brews in the financial hub. In pictures: Timeline of Hong Kong's struggle against Chinese hegemony Even before the law was formalised, the UK had promised assistance to Hong Kongers if China went ahead with the legislation. As per this promise, those in possession of the British National Overseas passport could live in the UK, and work there. This would pave way for citizenship. "That is precisely what we will do now," Johnson told the parliament. Earlier, authorities had claimed that the law would be used to weed out “terrorists” from the city, while alluding to the year-long protests in the city which ended in a lot of violence, and only simmered down with the advent of COVID-19. Activists go MIA In the backdrop of China passing its controversial national security law in Hong Kong, activist groups in the city have disappeared from social media, and most pro-democracy campaigns shut fearing repercussions. Also read: 'None of your business': China slams foreign critics over Hong Kong law Fearing jail time, or worse, naysayers of the Chinese government will be put in prison for three-ten years depending on the gravity of crimes. Those who commit “serious crimes” may also face life imprisonment. What emerged as a protest against China’s now scrapped extradition law for Hong Kongers, turned into a larger demand for democracy and against Chinese influence in the city. 23 years of handover On July 1, Hong Kong marks 23 years since it was returned to China by Britain, as part of the “one country, two systems” deal, which gives special privileges to the people of Hong Kong which are not available elsewhere in the Chinese mainland. Additionally, the city is judged by its mini-constitution called “Basic law”. Also read: Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam says national security law won't undermine autonomy With the goal to stifle anti-government protests, the legislation criminalises subversion, secession, terrorism, and working with foreign forces. The sedition aspect of the law essentially make any critique of the Chinese government illegal. Any actions by people qualifying as “endangering the state” may be used to arrest people.

UK extends immigration rights to Hong Kongers on 23rd anniversary of city's handover

Hong Kong police said it has made its first arrest under Beijing's new national security law after a man was caught holding the&nbsp;Hong Kong independence flag.

"A man was arrested for holding a HK Independence flag in CausewayBay, Hong Kong, violating the National Security Law," the police announced, adding,"this is the first arrest made since the law has come into force."

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-marks-handover-anniversary-as-security-law-takes-effect-309787/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A senior Chinese government official had said that suspects arrested by the mainland's new office in Hong Kong will be tried in the mainland.

The arrest comes even as Hong Kong marked the 23rd anniversary of its handover to China on Wednesday. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam had earlier said the law is the "most important development" since 1997 when Britan handed over the colony to China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/hong-kong-protests-china-timeline-of-hong-kongs-struggle-against-chinese-hegemony-309674">In Pics: Timeline of Hong Kong's struggle against Chinese hegemony</a>

China's top lawmaking body National Standing Committee had unanimously approved the national security law on Tuesday after Beijing had introduced a draft six weeks ago. Chinese lawmakers passed the new law without taking Hong Kong legislature's approval.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-unveils-details-of-national-security-law-for-hong-kong-309754">Also Read:&nbsp;China unveils details of national security law for Hong Kong</a>

The City police began conducting searches as the new law came into effect today even though large gatherings are banned due to coronavirus restrictions.

Critics say China's new security law is desgined to move away from the "One Country, Two Systems" which the Chinese government had promised to UK authorities in 1997.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo critised the move saying: "China promised 50 years of freedom to the Hong Kong people, and gave them only 23." 
&nbsp;

Hong Kong police said it has made its first arrest under Beijing's new national security law after a man was caught holding the Hong Kong independence flag. "A man was arrested for holding a HK Independence flag in CausewayBay, Hong Kong, violating the National Security Law," the police announced, adding,"this is the first arrest made since the law has come into force.

Hong Kong police said it has made its first arrest under Beijing's new national security law after a man was caught holding the Hong Kong independence flag. "A man was arrested for holding a HK Independence flag in CausewayBay, Hong Kong, violating the National Security Law," the police announced, adding,"this is the first arrest made since the law has come into force." Watch Video: A senior Chinese government official had said that suspects arrested by the mainland's new office in Hong Kong will be tried in the mainland. The arrest comes even as Hong Kong marked the 23rd anniversary of its handover to China on Wednesday. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam had earlier said the law is the "most important development" since 1997 when Britan handed over the colony to China. In Pics: Timeline of Hong Kong's struggle against Chinese hegemony China's top lawmaking body National Standing Committee had unanimously approved the national security law on Tuesday after Beijing had introduced a draft six weeks ago. Chinese lawmakers passed the new law without taking Hong Kong legislature's approval. Also Read: China unveils details of national security law for Hong Kong The City police began conducting searches as the new law came into effect today even though large gatherings are banned due to coronavirus restrictions. Critics say China's new security law is desgined to move away from the "One Country, Two Systems" which the Chinese government had promised to UK authorities in 1997. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo critised the move saying: "China promised 50 years of freedom to the Hong Kong people, and gave them only 23."

Police in Hong Kong makes first arrest under China's national security law

Hong Kong's leader&nbsp;Carrie Lam&nbsp;on Wednesday hailed a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing as the "most important development" since the city was handed back to China.

"The national security law is a turning point for Hong Kong from chaos to being governed well," she told dignitaries at a ceremony marking the 23rd anniversary of the city's return to Chinese rule.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-marks-handover-anniversary-as-national-security-law-takes-effect-309778" hreflang="en">Hong Kong marks handover anniversary as national security law takes effect</a>

Lam was speaking a day after China unveiled the law to semi-autonomous Hong Kong's 7.5 million residents, a historic move decried by many Western governments as an unprecedented assault on the finance hub's liberties and autonomy.

It outlaws subversion, secession, terrorism and colluding with foreign forces to undermine national security with sentences of up to life in prison.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-timeline-of-chinas-excesses-in-hong-kong-leading-up-to-the-national-security-law-309752" hreflang="en">A timeline of China's excesses in Hong Kong leading up to the national security law</a>

The new suite of powers radically restructures the relationship between Beijing and Hong Kong, toppling the legal firewall that has existed between the city's judiciary and the mainland's party-controlled courts.

China will have jurisdiction over "serious" cases and its security agencies will also be able to operate publicly in the city for the first time, unbound by local laws as they carry out their duties.&nbsp;

Twenty-seven countries, including Britain, France, Germany and Japan, urged Beijing to "reconsider the imposition" of the legislation, saying in a statement to the UN Human Rights Council that it "undermines" the city's freedoms.

The United States has threatened new countermeasures.&nbsp;But Lam,&nbsp;a pro-Beijing appointee, rejected concerns the law will end Hong Kong's freedoms.&nbsp;

In her speech on Wednesday, she said the law "will not undermine Hong Kong's judicial independence and high degree of autonomy, and won't affect the Hong Kong people's freedoms and rights."

She described criticism of the law by foreign governments as "smearing and vicious attacks" and she thanked China's leaders for keeping faith in her after last year's huge and often violent pro-democracy protests.&nbsp;

Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam on Wednesday hailed a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing as the "most important development" since the city was handed back to China.

Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam on Wednesday hailed a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing as the "most important development" since the city was handed back to China. "The national security law is a turning point for Hong Kong from chaos to being governed well," she told dignitaries at a ceremony marking the 23rd anniversary of the city's return to Chinese rule. Also read: Hong Kong marks handover anniversary as national security law takes effect Lam was speaking a day after China unveiled the law to semi-autonomous Hong Kong's 7.5 million residents, a historic move decried by many Western governments as an unprecedented assault on the finance hub's liberties and autonomy. It outlaws subversion, secession, terrorism and colluding with foreign forces to undermine national security with sentences of up to life in prison. Also read: A timeline of China's excesses in Hong Kong leading up to the national security law The new suite of powers radically restructures the relationship between Beijing and Hong Kong, toppling the legal firewall that has existed between the city's judiciary and the mainland's party-controlled courts. China will have jurisdiction over "serious" cases and its security agencies will also be able to operate publicly in the city for the first time, unbound by local laws as they carry out their duties. Twenty-seven countries, including Britain, France, Germany and Japan, urged Beijing to "reconsider the imposition" of the legislation, saying in a statement to the UN Human Rights Council that it "undermines" the city's freedoms. The United States has threatened new countermeasures. But Lam, a pro-Beijing appointee, rejected concerns the law will end Hong Kong's freedoms. In her speech on Wednesday, she said the law "will not undermine Hong Kong's judicial independence and high degree of autonomy, and won't affect the Hong Kong people's freedoms and rights." She described criticism of the law by foreign governments as "smearing and vicious attacks" and she thanked China's leaders for keeping faith in her after last year's huge and often violent pro-democracy protests.

Carrie Lam calls security law 'most important' development for Hong Kong since handover

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