The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today strongly opposed and condemned the US for its so-called travel advisory which once again confuses the public and maliciously smears Hong Kong.

A highly international city, Hong Kong has frequent exchanges with other countries, regions and international organisations, and such normal exchange activities are protected by the Basic Law and the laws of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong SAR Government said in a press statement.

Meanwhile, the National Security Law and other relevant laws regulate the use of Hong Kong by foreign countries or external elements to carry out acts and activities endangering national security, which is obviously different from normal exchange activities, it explained.

The Hong Kong SAR Government also pointed out that the laws related to national security provide a clear definition to the offences, and no one, including tourists, will unwittingly breach the law.

The US has manipulated its foreign travel advisory into a political instrument, creating the illusion that all tourists coming to Hong Kong will be regarded as culprits endangering national security, thereby affecting travel. Such action, which bears ulterior motives, is extremely appalling and irresponsible.

It also reiterated that the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance and the National Security Law form a comprehensive legal system and enforcement mechanism for safeguarding national security, allowing Hong Kong people to regain the enjoyment of rights and freedoms which many of them were unable to enjoy during the period of serious violence and Hong Kong version of a “colour revolution” in 2019.

The Hong Kong SAR Government solemnly urged the US to discern fact from fallacy, and stop its wanton slanders and smears against the city.