Question: It was reported that UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron claimed in a recent media interview that China was becoming more aggressive and assertive, and that the UK needed to protect itself with more hardened security against things like cyber attacks. Cameron also again said that the Hong Kong National Security Law was against the Sino-British Joint Declaration and called for the release of Jimmy Lai. What is your comment？

Embassy Spokesperson: I already responded to similar remarks from the British side a few days ago.

We firmly oppose groundless accusations from British officials against China and interference in China's internal affairs by the British side.

Being aggressive is not China's tradition. China has all along pursued an independent foreign policy of peace, and is a partner and opportunity for the development of other countries, not a threat or challenge. We are committed to growing relations with other countries on the basis of mutual respect and mutual benefit. At the same time, we firmly safeguard our sovereignty, security, and development interests.

Cybersecurity is a global challenge. China has consistently and resolutely fought against cyber attacks in accordance with the law, and advocates that countries work together to jointly maintain cybersecurity through dialogue and cooperation. China opposes the politicisation of cybersecurity issues and the act of smearing other countries without factual basis.

The allegation that the National Security Law for Hong Kong “violates the Joint Declaration” is a non-issue. The basis for the Chinese government’s governance of Hong Kong is the Constitution of China and the Basic Law of the Hong Kong SAR, not the Sino-British Joint Declaration. The National Security Law was formulated in accordance with China’s Constitution and has become a part of the legal system of Hong Kong on the basis of the Basic Law. The core of the Joint Declaration is China’s resumption of sovereignty over Hong Kong, and the historical mission of the Joint Declaration was completed on 1 July 1997. The UK has no right to take the Joint Declaration as an excuse to interfere in Hong Kong affairs, which are China’s internal affairs. Regarding the case of Jimmy Lai, China has repeatedly clarified its solemn position. China urges the UK to respect the facts and the rule of law, stop supporting and emboldening this notorious anti-China element who is bent on destabilising Hong Kong, and stop meddling in Hong Kong affairs and other internal affairs of China.

We call on the UK to abandon Cold War mentality, stop spreading the “China threat theory”, view China and China-UK relations in an objective and rational light, and work with China to promote the sound and stable development of bilateral relations.