Q: On July 28th, the New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister announced that the New Zealand government has suspended its extradition treaty with Hong Kong in light of China’s decision to pass a national security law for Hong Kong. What is your comment?

A: The New Zealand government’s decision is a serious violation of international law and basic norms governing international relations. It is a gross interference in China's internal affairs. The Chinese side has lodged its grave concern and strong opposition.

Hong Kong is a special administrative region of China. Hong Kong affairs are entirely China's internal affairs, and allow no foreign interference. The Law on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong SAR is an important step to ensure the steady and sustained implementation of the "One Country, Two Systems" principle. Its implementation will strengthen Hong Kong's legal framework, ensure social order, improve business environment and contribute to Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability.

Any attempt to pressure China on the issue of Hong Kong will not succeed. The Chinese side urges the New Zealand side to abide by the international law and the basic norms governing international relations, immediately stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs in any forms to avoid further harm to China-New Zealand relations.