BEIJING - China on Thursday expressed opposition to other countries using so-called human rights issues to interfere in China's internal affairs.

Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hong Lei made the remarks at a press conference in response to a statement recently released by EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton.

The statement, issued by Ashton's spokesperson on Wednesday, said that Ashton regretted China's sentencing in relevant cases.

Hong said people involved in the cases had violated China's laws, and they must be punished according to law.

China is a country under the rule of law, and everyone is equal before the law, he said.

Hong said Chinese public security and justice departments independently handle cases, which are entirely within China's judicial sovereignty, and the outside world has no right to interfere in the handling of these cases.

The Chinese government protects and promotes human rights in accordance with the law, and safeguards the rights of Chinese citizens, including their freedom of speech, Hong said, noting that China has scored achievements in this regard.