The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government said today that it condemned and rejected interference by the US Department of State in Hong Kong's judicial proceedings, stressing that comments on the case of Lai Chee-ying are inappropriate as legal proceedings in the case are still ongoing.

The statement was made in response to remarks made today by the US Department of State's Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, & Labor which attempted to exert pressure and demand Lai Chee-ying's unconditional release. 

The Hong Kong SAR Government said it strongly urges external forces to immediately stop interfering in the Hong Kong SAR's internal affairs and the exercise of independent judicial power by the courts.

It iterated that all cases are handled strictly on the basis of evidence and in accordance with the law, adding that all defendants will receive a fair trial in accordance with laws applicable to Hong Kong, including the Hong Kong National Security Law, and as protected by the Basic Law and the Hong Kong Bill of Rights.

It also stressed that attempts by any country, organisation or individual to interfere with judicial proceedings in the Hong Kong SAR by means of political power, thereby resulting in a defendant not being able to have a fair trial, constitute reprehensible acts that undermine the rule of law of Hong Kong and should be condemned.

The Hong Kong SAR Government stated that it will continue to resolutely discharge its duty of safeguarding national security, and act to prevent, suppress and punish in accordance with the law acts and activities that endanger national security. It will also continue to safeguard the rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong people in accordance with the law.