Hong Kong night view Photo: Courtesy of Hong Kong Tourism Board

The Office of the Commissioner of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) made stern representations over false reports by some foreign media on the suspension of the extradition bill in the past two consecutive days, and also criticized the US and the UK for interfering in China's domestic affairs in Hong Kong on Tuesday.

According to the office website, "an official in charge" of the office released two statements on Sunday and Monday on stern representations over some foreign media's "unwarranted comments on the HKSAR's suspension of the amendment of the two ordinances related to fugitive transfers." 

The statements didn't identify which foreign media outlets made unwarranted comments over the extradition bill issue.

On Tuesday, the office released a statement slamming the spokespersons of the US State Department and the UK Prime Minister for their wrong comments that interfere in China's domestic affairs in Hong Kong. The official clarified the facts and position, emphasizing that the amendment is necessary, just and reasonable as it aims to plug a legal loophole, uphold social justice and improve the rule of law in Hong Kong. 

The proposed amendments are in line with international law and common international practices and will help combat crime, the statement released on Sunday said. 

Relevant departments of the Central government, including the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Liaison Office of the Chinese Central People's Government in the HKSAR, released remarks which clearly stated that the central government understands, respects and supports Chief Executive Carrie Lam's announcement to suspend the legislative amendment exercise, the Sunday statement said.

The central government will also continue its staunch support for Lam and the SAR government in governing Hong Kong in accordance with law, defending national sovereignty, security and development interests, and uphold  long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong, it noted.

The statement on Monday used tougher words, saying China will not tolerate interference in China's domestic affairs, and urged these media to stop wrong and biased behavior which confuses the public and creates conflicts. 

Global Times