China has firmly rejected international criticism of Hong Kong's judicial system following the high-profile conviction of media tycoon Jimmy Lai this week. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun called out "blatant slander" by some countries, emphasizing that Hong Kong's legal processes are "lawful and justified."
The Verdict Explained 🧑⚖️
Lai, a key figure in 2019's anti-government protests, was found guilty on December 15 of conspiring with external forces and publishing seditious materials. The ruling comes three years after Hong Kong implemented its National Security Law—a move Beijing says protects stability while critics claim restricts freedoms.
International Reactions 🌐
Britain and other Western nations have raised concerns about judicial independence, but Guo stressed: "Hong Kong is a society governed by the rule of law." He added that safeguarding national security is "non-negotiable" for the Chinese mainland and its Special Administrative Regions.
Why This Matters 💡
The case highlights ongoing tensions between China's sovereignty priorities and Western views on civil liberties. For young professionals tracking Asia-Pacific geopolitics, it underscores how national security laws continue reshaping Hong Kong's legal landscape in 2025.
