Today, China’s State Councilor & Foreign Minister Wang Yi and UK First Secretary & Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab exchanged views over the phone. 
Wang said, as major countries of global influence, China & UK have the responsibility of safeguarding world peace & development. Mutually-beneficial cooperation serves the fundamental and long-term interests of peoples of our two countries.
As international peace and strategic stability face disruption from unilateralism, China & UK should uphold multilateralism, safeguard the international system with the UN at its core and uphold the international order based on international law.
Wang emphasized: HK affairs are China’s internal affairs and brook no external interference. In view of the grave situation with regard to national security in HK SAR, China’s national level legislature – NPC – is taking decisive step to enact law & safeguard national security.
This legislation will plug the loophole with regard to national security legislation in HK. It is reasonable, legal and must be done without delay. It will facilitate the implementation of “One Country, Two Systems”.
The legislation targets the very few “independence” elements & activities of violence&terror that gravely jeopardize national security. It will provide safeguards for HK residents to enjoy statutory rights & freedom, and for law-abiding foreigners to live and work in HK safely.
Hong Kong’s capitalist system, high degree of autonomy in accordance with the Basic law and way of life will not change. The legislation will help build a well-rounded legal system, safeguard social order and improve business environment in Hong Kong.
As permanent members of UN Security Council, China & UK should set an example in observing basic norms governing international relations and refraining from interfering in other country’s internal affairs.
China never interfered in or made irresponsible remarks on UK’s internal affairs. China hopes UK will respect the Constitution of China and the Basic Law which is in line with the Constitution, respect China’s legitimate right to safeguard national security on its own territory.
We also hope the UK will respect the governance of HK by the Central Government of China in accordance with “One Country, Two Systems” and be extremely discrete on this matter.
Secretary Raab said, the UK is committed to developing robust bilateral relations with China, believing that UK-China cooperation will embrace broader prospects post Covid-19, including on major international and regional issues such as climate change.
Under the framework of a mature relationship, the two sides could exchange views on any issue in a candid manner and with mutual respect, said Raab.
