China summons US ambassador over passing of HK-related bill

The Foreign Ministry summoned Terry Branstad, the United States ambassador to China, on Monday to protest against the passing of the so-called Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act.

Vice-Foreign Minister Zheng Zeguang urged the US side to immediately correct its errors, stop meddling in Hong Kong affairs and interfering in China's internal affairs, according to a statement released by the ministry on its website.

The Chinese side strongly urged the US to understand the situation and prevent this act from becoming law. Otherwise, the US will have to bear all the consequences, Zheng said.

Hong Kong affairs are China's internal affairs that allow no interference from foreign countries, he said, noting the act is a blatant interference in China's internal affairs.

He added that the act condones and supports the violent criminal behaviors of anti-China radicals trying to disrupt Hong Kong, and it is in serious violation of international law and basic norms governing international relations.

China strongly condemns and firmly opposes it, Zheng said.

The vice-minister stressed that the Chinese government is determined to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, implement the "one country, two systems" policy, and opposes any foreign interference in Hong Kong affairs.

Any attempt that disrupt Hong Kong or damage its stability and prosperity will not succeed, he said.