China’s tells Five Eyes nations to stop ‘intervening’ in Hong Kong affairs

Australia’s move to condemn the arrests of Hong Kong politicians and activists has heightened tensions with Beijing.

China has fired a warning shot at Australia after it joined Five Eyes nations raising concerns about a mass arrest of politicians and activists in Hong Kong.

Australia joined Canada, the UK and US in condemning the largest crackdown yet under Hong Kong’s controversial national security law.

The joint statement alleged the laws were being used to “eliminate dissent and opposing political views” and called on authorities to respect the rights and freedoms of Hongkongers.

But China’s foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian on Monday slammed the claims and issued a warning to stop meddling in their internal matters.

“Relevant countries are confusing right and wrong, misleading the public and blatantly intervening in China’s Hong Kong affairs,” Mr Zhao said.

“(They) should face squarely the reality that Hong Kong has returned to China.”

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Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian has strongly condemned the joint statement from Five Eyes nations. REUTERS/Carlos Garcia Rawlins

Mr Zhao said the clampdown on criminal activities under the national security laws were safeguarding China’s sovereignty and security.

“This is beyond reproach and cannot be slandered,” he said.

“Peace and tranquillity has been restored and justice upheld in the Hong Kong society, and the legal rights and freedoms of Hong Kong residents have been better protected in a safer environment.

“This is an undeniable fact.”

Mike Lam King-nam, who participated in the pro-democracy primary elections, leaves a police station following his release on bail. He was arrested along with dozens of other activists on January 6 under the city‘s national security law. Picture: Anthony Wallace / AFP

At least 55 pro-democracy politicians and activists were arrested last week under the laws, which have made crimes of secession, subversion, terrorism activities and collusion with a foreign country attract penalties of up to life in prison.

Four of the Five Eyes nations have also demanded that Hong Kong’s Legislative Council elections – rescheduled for September after being postponed last year due to COVID-19 – include candidates representing a range of political opinions.

New Zealand did not contribute to the joint statement, saying it aired its concerns individually on January 7.