New law for HK seen as better serving prosperity

The National Security Law for Hong Kong does not affect any lawful interests of Hong Kong citizens or foreign institutions and personnel in the city, and will serve Hong Kong's prosperity and stability, Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said.

The law applies to four categories of criminal behavior that gravely undermine national security, targets only a few people and protects the vast majority, Zhao said at a daily news conference on Tuesday.

Implementation of the law will improve the legal system of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, further stabilize the city's social order and enhance its business climate, he said.

Zhao made the remarks when a reporter sought his comment on the reported exit of the short form video app TikTok from Hong Kong.

TikTok decided to leave Hong Kong following the establishment of the National Security Law for the region, Reuters reported.

"We hope relevant parties will view China's legitimate rights to safeguard its own sovereignty and security in a just, objective and reasonable manner," Zhao said, urging them to "be cautious with their words and actions" and "not to politicize" the issue.

Regarding other internet companies' moves to stop processing Hong Kong authorities' requests for user data, Zhao said with the implementation of the National Security Law, the fundamental interests and well-being of Hong Kong residents will be better protected.

The law will also further strengthen the foundation of the "one country, two systems" principle and make the city more peaceful and harmonious, he said.

"We are full of confidence in Hong Kong's future," Zhao said.

In another development, Zhao also urged the United Kingdom's communications regulator Ofcom on Tuesday to revoke its "erroneous" decision reported on Monday that China Global Television Network has breached British broadcasting regulations.

The regulator should provide support and convenience for normal news coverage by Chinese media outlets in the UK, Zhao said, expressing firm opposition to obstruction of such activities.