China Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, in a July 1, 2025 press conference, strongly defended the Hong Kong National Security Law on its 5th anniversary, highlighting the city’s economic resilience and global competitiveness. She rejected Western criticisms as politically motivated, reaffirmed China’s stance on non-interference in Thailand’s internal affairs, opposed U.S. sanctions involving North Korea-linked IT networks, and emphasized consequences for harming China’s interests following sanctions on a former Philippine senator.
China Defends Hong Kong’s Security Law, Hits Back at Western Critics
On July 1, 2025, the Chinese Foreign Ministry held a regular press conference where spokesperson Mao Ning answered questions from multiple media outlets on pressing international and regional matters. The conference came on the 28th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to China and marked five years since the implementation of the Law on Safeguarding National Security in the region.
Responding to a question from the Beijing Youth Daily, Mao Ning highlighted the improvements in Hong Kong since the law was enacted. She said the legal framework has been strengthened, social order has improved, and the rights and freedoms of residents under the law remain protected.
Mao criticized some Western politicians and anti-China organizations for what she described as baseless and malicious attacks on the “One Country, Two Systems” model. She asserted these actions expose their ill intentions to create instability in Hong Kong.
Mao presented a detailed economic overview of Hong Kong to support China’s position. She noted that:
- Hong Kong’s GDP has shown continuous growth over nine quarters.
- The city is now among the top three global financial centers.
- It has regained a top-three spot in the global competitiveness rankings.
- Hong Kong is the world’s third-largest recipient of foreign direct investment.
- It leads globally in IPO fundraising since the start of 2025.
- It ranks first globally in air cargo shipping.
- It is fourth in the International Shipping Center Development Index.
- It is among the top ten globally in talent competitiveness.
- Foreign chambers of commerce are actively recommending investment in Hong Kong.
These figures, Mao explained, demonstrate the resilience, vibrancy, and growing international appeal of Hong Kong. She expressed strong confidence in the city’s future, citing the central government’s unwavering support, the commitment of the Hong Kong SAR government, and the efforts of the local population.
When asked by AFP about the suspension of Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra by Thailand’s constitutional court following a diplomatic conflict with Cambodia, Mao Ning refrained from commenting directly. She stated that this is an internal matter of Thailand and added that China, as a friendly neighbor, wishes for continued peace and development in the country.
The press conference also touched upon recent developments involving North Korea. The AFP asked about a U.S. Justice Department announcement which claimed it had dismantled a network that helped North Koreans get remote IT jobs with foreign companies to fund Pyongyang’s weapons program. Six Chinese nationals and two Taiwanese individuals were indicted. Mao Ning responded that China opposes all forms of unilateral sanctions that lack a legal basis or UN Security Council authorization. She said China will take all necessary steps to protect the legal rights of its citizens.
Further, in response to a Bloomberg question about Beijing’s sanctions against former Philippine senator Francis Tolentino, Mao Ning stated that the sanction decision and explanation have been published on the Ministry’s official website. While not providing new specifics, she emphasized that there are consequences for harming China’s interests.
The July 1 press conference illustrated China’s firm approach toward safeguarding its national interests, defending its political systems, and maintaining its image on the global stage. It also marked a moment for Beijing to reaffirm its confidence in Hong Kong’s development and express readiness to counter foreign criticisms and actions it considers unjustified.
Disclaimer:
This article is a factual summary of the statements made during the July 1, 2025 press briefing by China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It reflects the official positions of the Chinese government and may not represent the perspectives of other countries or independent organizations. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple viewpoints when evaluating complex international issues.