In an era marked by increasing global tensions and intense geopolitical competition, Washington’s latest sanctions drama seems even more desperate and misguided. As the US seeks to maintain its global dominance, it increasingly sees China’s rapid development as a “threat” and has chosen Hong Kong as a convenient target. Under the pretext of defending democracy and freedom in the city, Washington has repeatedly accused Beijing of undermining Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy. Yet facts speak louder than empty rhetoric.
In reality, since the implementation of the National Security Law for Hong Kong and other measures to safeguard national sovereignty, Hong Kong has transformed remarkably from chaos to stability and now moves steadily toward prosperity. Far from being harmful, these measures have helped restore public order, economic confidence, and international competitiveness. Hong Kong recently reclaimed the top ranking in global economic freedom, rose to third place as an international financial center, and moved up to fifth in global competitiveness rankings. Such achievements clearly refute Washington’s unfounded accusations. The US sanctions, therefore, appear even more baseless, absurd, and misdirected.
The individuals targeted by these sanctions are precisely the officials who have courageously and responsibly upheld national sovereignty, security, and Hong Kong’s prosperity. They have carried out their duties lawfully and diligently, deserving support and respect rather than unjustified punishment. Beijing has swiftly and decisively responded to these unjust actions. The Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR strongly condemned Washington’s interference, reiterating firm support for Hong Kong authorities in executing their lawful duties, and promising continued vigilance against external meddling. Such strong backing from the central government provides the clearest support and reassurance to the officials unfairly sanctioned.
At the same time, Hong Kong society at large has loudly condemned Washington’s latest move, defending the sanctioned officials and firmly opposing external interference. Across the political spectrum, community leaders and ordinary citizens alike have denounced the sanctions as arrogant, unjust, and pointless. The HKSAR government itself has dismissed these measures, asserting that no amount of US pressure will undermine its determination to safeguard national security and ensure long-term stability. Washington’s misguided attempt to intimidate local leaders has instead strengthened resolve and unity among Hong Kong residents.
Washington’s double standards in handling national security issues are glaringly obvious. At home, the US government aggressively enforces its own national security measures, often with harsh consequences. Yet, when Hong Kong authorities implement lawful, necessary actions to protect national security, Washington immediately labels such actions as oppressive and undemocratic. This blatant hypocrisy has not gone unnoticed by the global community. The US’ habit of weaponizing “long-arm jurisdiction” against foreign officials, while ignoring its own inconsistent practices, reveals its true colors. As many observers have pointed out, the latest round of sanctions has only further exposed Washington’s confused and contradictory stance toward democracy and freedom.
Hong Kong’s residents vividly remember the turmoil and pain of the 2019-20 unrest. These difficult experiences taught them a valuable lesson: National security is fundamental for the city’s prosperity and stability. Hong Kong’s future can only be decided by Hong Kong’s people — by the Chinese people — not dictated by foreign powers. External interference, sanctions, or intimidation cannot and will not succeed in steering Hong Kong off its rightful path.
Indeed, such clumsy US attempts to intimidate serve only to reinforce the determination of both the central government and Hong Kong residents to protect Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy, as well as China’s sovereignty and development interests. US sanctions, rather than weakening local resolve, have actually strengthened unity among Hong Kong officials and residents alike. The city now moves forward under the protection of national security laws, confident in its future and resilient against external threats.
Ultimately, the latest US sanctions drama is nothing more than a political sideshow — an empty gesture that achieves no real change or benefit. It reveals far more about American politicians’ arrogance and hypocrisy — and the US’ declining global influence — than it does about Hong Kong or China as a whole. The international community increasingly recognizes the hollowness of Washington’s accusations and actions, and clearly sees the real motives behind its continued interference.
As Hong Kong holds steady on its journey from stability to prosperity, the city’s residents and leaders stand united, confident, and determined. No matter how persistently the US attempts to exert pressure or create political theater, it will not alter Hong Kong’s continued success. Washington’s sanctions, in the end, will likely become a lasting symbol of its own misguided approach and diminishing credibility.
The author is the convener at China Retold, a member of the Legislative Council, and a member of the Central Committee of the New People’s Party.
The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
