oleh admin | Apr 3, 2025 | activists, crime, politics, politics and government, politics and law
New
Delhi
[India], April 3 (ANI): A team of
Members of Parliament
Members of Parliament gathered for an event hosted by the Brave Souls Foundation at the
Constitution Club of India
, where they expressed their backing for
acid attack
According to a press release, survivors and dedicated individuals are advocating for enhanced legal and financial safeguards.
The attending Members of Parliament were Pramod Tiwari and Rajiv Shukla.
Jaya Bachchan
Tiruchi Siva, Abdul Wahab, Imran Pratapgarhi, Anil Yadav Mandadi, Ashok Mittal, John Brittas, and Ayodhya Rami Reddy were among those who recounted their hardships and called for urgent measures regarding critical concerns like justice, prompt compensation, job opportunities, and resettlement.
The survivors highlighted that even with Supreme Court instructions, acid continues to be readily accessible in stores, assaults persist without letup, and government support payments frequently arrive late or prove inadequate. Numerous victims struggle to find jobs, and legal gaps enable attackers to avoid serious consequences.
The Members of Parliament told the survivors that they would bring up their worries during parliamentary discussions and promised to address these issues with both the Home Minister and the Law Minister at the next monsoon session. Additionally, they backed the call for swift implementation of the Prevention of Acid Attacks and Justice for Victims and Survivors Bill, 2024, which encompasses measures like controlling acid distribution, providing free healthcare services, and establishing special fast-track tribunals.
acid attack
cases.
Multiple Members of Parliament also contributed personally to back the initiative.
Jaya Bachchan
declared a contribution of Rs 50 lakh to the Brave Souls Foundation, whereas AAP Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Mittal promised free education for survivors at his institute alongside a monetary help of Rs 5 lakh. Various MPs committed parts of their earnings or donations varying between Rs 5 lakh and Rs 25 lakh. Moreover, non-government organizations attending the gathering affirmed ongoing backing for survivors via legal support and healthcare services.
The Members of Parliament asked the Brave Souls Foundation to provide an official document detailing these requests, promising to deliver it to the government for prompt implementation. This occasion represented a crucial advancement in the quest for justice, as lawmakers, advocates, and members of civil society came together to call for overdue changes.
Members of Parliament and activists jointly presented various demands to the government.
Swift Implementation of the Anti-Acid Attack Act, 2024 – It is essential to enact thorough legislation aimed at controlling acid distribution, enhancing support systems for those affected, and guaranteeing victims obtain fair treatment.
Members of Parliament called for an outright prohibition on the sale of acid at retail outlets. They proposed categorizing acid as a controlled substance and establishing a rigorous licensing framework, along with severe consequences for unauthorized sales.
Comprehensive and Cost-Free Healthcare for Survivors – Every hospital, whether public or private, is required to offer complete medical attention, encompassing reconstruction procedures, at no expense to those who have survived. Harsh consequences ought to be imposed upon facilities refusing to treat them.
A dedicated officer must be assigned in each district to guarantee adherence to survivors’ rights and to promptly address instances where hospitals deny care.
The government should set up dedicated burn rehabilitation centers across India to offer extended support to victims.
Unrestricted Lifetime Travel for Healthcare – Survivors frequently need numerous operations spread out over various regions, and they ought to receive complimentary transportation for medical treatment.
Creation and Growth of Secure Residences for Victims – It is essential for the government to designate plots, structures, and monetary support to establish secure residences offering comprehensive recovery programs.
Special courts ought to be set up to guarantee that
acid attack
Cases are addressed promptly, ensuring offenders do not escape accountability.
Enhanced Payouts for Beneficiaries – Presently, beneficiaries receive Rs 3-7 lakh which falls short. This amount ought to be raised to a minimum of Rs 50 lakh, with greater sums designated for those able to demonstrate extra monetary damages.
A comprehensive pension program for dependents—akin to schemes found in regions like Punjab and Haryana—should be established to ensure long-term monetary support for surviving family members. This plan should also include supplementary benefits designed to address ongoing healthcare and mental health requirements.
Acknowledgment of Acid Attack Survivors as Individuals with Disabilities – These survivors endure significant physical and emotional harm and ought to be officially classified as individuals with disabilities under the law.
disabilities
.
Facial Disfigurements Should Be Recognized as Disabilities – Individuals with such scarring deserve comprehensive affirmative action privileges within the disability provisions.
Reservations for Education and Employment – Similar to the SC/ST/OBC classifications, survivors deserve reserved spots in educational institutions and job sectors to facilitate their integration into society.
Allocation of government land for survivor-operated cafés, canteens, and kiosks — Land owned by the government should be provided to survivors so they can manage food stalls, eateries, and dining areas in public spaces, fostering their financial self-sufficiency.
The government ought to finance complete scholarships for survivors so they can further their education at home and overseas in India and beyond.
Creation of a Dedicated Parliamentary Subcommittee – There should be established an exclusive subcommittee tasked with examining current policies, proposing legislative changes, and monitoring the execution of actions aimed at combating
acid attack
s.
Urgent Publication of NCRB Statistics on Acid Attacks – The National Crime Records Bureau should promptly publish current and precise information regarding acid attacks.
acid attack
So as to guarantee openness and well-informed policy creation.
Notably, AAP Rajya Sabha
Sanjay Singh
On March 19, brought up the matter regarding
acid attack
Survivors in the Rajya Sabha are calling for the creation of specialized fast-track courts to guarantee prompt justice. “Every day these survivors face indescribable pain, but they still have to wait over two decades for justice. It is imperative that the government establishes dedicated quick-response tribunals to hasten their cases and impose stringent penalties on those responsible,” he stated.
Sanjay Singh
It was also mentioned that the administration ought to offer complimentary healthcare services to those who survived and enhance the compensation to Rs 50 lakh, as the present amount of Rs 5 lakh is woefully insufficient.
Emphasizing the challenges faced by survivors,
Sanjay Singh
highlighted the story of Shaheen Malik, who has been striving for justice over the past 16 years after she lost her face and one eye
acid attack
He additionally mentioned two young girls from Siwan, who were assaulted when they were 14 but achieved justice only after two decades.
These young girls rise each morning, gaze into the mirror, and are constantly reminded of their trauma. Making them endure such pain for decades until they see justice is unacceptable. The government needs to act without delay,
Sanjay Singh
said. (ANI)
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
oleh admin | Apr 3, 2025 | donald trump, news, politics, politics and government, u.s. presidents
-
EXPLORE FURTHER: Minute by minute, the highly illuminating specifics of Biden’s daily routine
-
PODCAST: Trump’s ‘Freedom Day’ Taxes, along with a surprising push for the death penalty in the Luigi Mangioni case. Tune into Welcome to MAGAland here.
Aides to
Joe Biden
are expressing their worries over his state where he seemed ‘disconnected’ and the efforts required to maintain his appearance as presidential during his last years in office.
White House
.
Biden required fluorescent tape placed on the carpet to indicate where he should walk during events. This allowed the octogenarian to navigate easily without needing an assistant to lead him.
One senior advisor mentioned that the president was extremely distracted during the preparations for his now notorious debate.
Donald Trump
that he believed he was the ‘President’
NATO
instead of the United States.
Several books revealing insights into Biden’s presidency are set to be published in the upcoming months. As many as four new volumes will explore his downturn and legacy.
Some of the new information is eye-opening, particularly when it comes to what aides knew about the president’s health and the actions they took to conceal Biden’s condition to the public.
Ron Klain, who was Biden’s chief of staff for two years and also supported him throughout the 2024 campaign, told author Chris Whipple about the six-day period they spent at Camp David. The aim was to prepare Biden for his sole debate against Trump.
This debate was expected to be the end of Biden’s political journey.
Klain recounted to Whipple for his upcoming book, “We were seated at the table. Biden had responses written on index cards, and he seemed incredibly fatigued. It struck me how disconnected he appeared from U.S. politics. His main focus was clearly on his exchanges with NATO officials.”
‘He simply got deeply engrossed in his role as the leader of NATO,’ Klain stated.
Whipple suggests that Klain ‘entertained the notion, somewhat jokingly, that Biden might have believed he was the leader of NATO rather than the United States.’
Whipple’s book
Uncharted: How Trump Defied Expectations Against Biden, Harris, and the Toughest Race in American Political History
It will be released next week.
The Guardian published
excerpts.
Following his debate against Trump, Biden required fluorescent tape to navigate through a fundraising event.
New Jersey
Governor Phil Murphy’s (D) residence so he wouldn’t get disoriented.
Just as politicians, much like actors, use tape marks on the floor to ensure proper positioning for the camera, Biden required a series of vibrant markers acting as ‘colorful breadcrumbs’ to guide the leader of the free world on his path.
As per authors Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes’ book, an aide clarified, ‘He understands where to search for that.’
Conflict: The Most Ferocious Fight for the White House
, which releases this week.
Parnes informed ‘Rising The Hill’ that during the fundraiser, Biden had ‘fluorescent tape on the ground to indicate his path.’
‘During overseas visits, a makeup artist arrives early each day to freshen him up and apply his cosmetics before important meetings. His role involved attending these gatherings rather than participating in TV appearances,’ she explained.
At that fundraising event, Biden had to rely on a teleprompter to address a small gathering of people outside on the patio. Even with the aid of the teleprompter, he still drifted off-topic and meandered in his speech.
More harmful information is probably yet to be revealed.
Original Sin: President Biden’s Downfall, Its Concealment, and His Poor Decision to Seek Re-election
Scheduled for release on May 20th, this book by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson will be available soon.
Thompson stood out as one of the journalists highlighting worries regarding Biden’s well-being throughout his tenure as president.
During his presidency, Biden fell and stumbled numerous occasions. He acknowledged struggling with mobility issues following a fractured foot sustained during the 2020 election campaign, which occurred because he did not consistently wear his required protective boot. Additionally, he committed various verbal slips-ups that disrupted the communication strategy of his administration.
And, lastly, Josh Dawsey, TylerPager, and Isaac Arnsdorf have authored a book.
2024: How Trump Regained the Presidency and the Democrats Lost Their Grip on America
– set to release on July 8.
Biden personally did not grant any interviews to the authors of these books.
In the midst of the 2024 election campaign, Biden faced scrutiny regarding both his physical and mental well-being. Trump consistently referred to him as ‘Sleepy Joe’ and raised doubts about Biden’s mental acuity.
The White House repeatedly countered these claims, asserting that the president remained in excellent health.
But the June 27th debate in Atlanta rapidly changed public perception of Biden. During the showdown, Biden often stared blankly into space, struggled for answers, and appeared shaky.
Following the event, members of Biden’s team mentioned that he was dealing with a common cold, leading to a difficult night for him. Critics argued that rather than allowing him time to recuperate, they felt he received excessive coaching and practice sessions.
Klain was among the trio of assistants who dedicated the most hours to preparing Biden for the debate. Having known Biden for many years, he previously served as his chief of staff during Biden’s tenure as vice president. The other two key figures were longtime associates Mike Donilon and Bruce Reed.
The group, including the president, reached Camp David on the Saturday before the debate to undergo a five-day preparatory lock-in period.
Biden had recently completed an extensive tour: he visited France for both a state visit and the D-Day anniversary celebrations in Normandy. After returning to the United States, he soon traveled to Italy a few days later for a G7 conference. He concluded his journey with stops along the West Coast to attend fundraising events for his political campaigns.
He felt drained and hardly got any downtime.
At the secluded Camp David, a mountainous presidential getaway in Maryland, he underwent policy briefings and simulated debate practices to prepare himself.
However, Biden, who was dealing with a cold, abandoned his debate preparation and dozed off beside the swimming pool, as Klain informed Whipple.
He also appeared flustered and confused.
The former president stated that he ‘was unaware of what Trump had been discussing and could not comprehend the exchange,’ ‘found it difficult to follow his reasoning regarding inflation,’ and when asked about a potential second term, simply responded with ‘focus on completing the current term,’ as noted by Whipple.
Biden was similarly preoccupied with foreign leaders, stating, “These folks insist I’m performing admirably as president, so I must be an excellent one.”
The initial mock debate was planned to run for 90 minutes; however, it concluded early at the 45-minute mark because “the President’s vocal cords were exhausted, along with his understanding of the topic,” according to Whipple’s account.
Twenty-five minutes into the second simulated debate, Biden called it quits.
According to the book, he stated, “I’m simply exhausted and I fear straining my voice further. I feel awful.” He added, “All I need is some rest; things will improve by tomorrow.”
He retired for the night.
‘Whipple describes the president as exhausted, confused, and disconnected,’ ‘Klain worried that the debate against Trump would turn into a nationally broadcasted catastrophe.’
Indeed it was.
Following this, it triggered a cascade of inquiries into the feasibility of Biden’s run for presidency and his competency to handle the role.
Openly, Biden’s family, friends, and aides came to his defense.
Privately they had concerns.
In their book, Parnes and Allen state, “While publicly dismissing Republicans’ assertions that Biden lacked the necessary capabilities, Democrats secretly harbored concerns about overestimating an elderly candidate who might have already squandered his prime.”
A friend of both Biden and Obama stated to the authors that Biden’s decision to run for another term was considered the “original sin” of the 2024 election. This individual held Biden’s family and trusted advisors responsible for failing to counsel against his reelection campaign.
Whipple said to Politico that he believed Biden’s assistants perceived what they wished to see.
“I personally feel that describing it as a ‘cover-up’ is overly simple. It was far more complex and deeply concerning. Biden’s close advisors, members of his inner circle, were largely enveloped in a haze of self-deception and denial. They chose to believe whatever suited their narrative,” the author stated.
Meanwhile, Democratic leaders were concerned that Biden might lose the presidential election, potentially dragging down congressional candidates as well.
Some went public, questioning Biden’s ability to remain the nominee. After growing calls for his departure, including behind-the-scenes work by Barack Obama and Nancy Pelosi, Biden exited the race on July 21.
However, Klain, even though he had reservations about Biden, believed he ought to have remained in the competition.
He received a call from Jeff Zients, who took over as chief of staff after him, informing him about Biden’s choice to resign.
He informed Whipple that it felt like a ‘punch in the gut.’
He stated to Zients, “I believe that’s a misstep. In my view, this tragedy could have been prevented.”
Kamala Harris was chosen as the party’s candidate but eventually lost to Trump.
Read more
oleh admin | Apr 3, 2025 | asia, international relations, politics, politics and government, politics and law
The Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan, Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani, has been appointed as the inaugural chairperson of the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference (ISC). This international organization, based in Seoul, aims to encourage parliamentary discussions, support sustainable growth, and enhance collaboration in tackling significant issues like climate change, renewable energy, and water scarcity.
Chairman Gilani made this decision during his recent trip to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, for an exclusive briefing about the upcoming Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference (ISC) scheduled in Seoul, South Korea.
The official ceremony for this event will occur during the upcoming World Summit 2025, hosted by the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) in Seoul, South Korea. This gathering will involve participation from 500 delegates and 45 parliamentary speakers representing 150 nations.
The award bestowed upon Chairman Gilani acknowledged his forward-thinking leadership with an engraving that praised his steadfast dedication to fostering connections among legislative institutions and promoting a collective international mission for peace, progress, and democratic principles. His trip to Kuala Lumpur and his designation as the inaugural chairperson of the ISC mark crucial moments in Pakistan’s escalating impact on the worldwide parliamentary landscape, notably through bolstering ties between parliaments, improving cross-border collaboration, and pursuing mutual economic and diplomatic goals.
Through the use of parliamentary diplomacy, the Pakistani Senate led by Chairman Gilani aims to implement groundbreaking measures designed to mend rifts and promote worldwide harmony and economic advancement.
Under Chairman Gilani, the ISC will act as an elite forum where Pakistan and other participating nations can share insights, create strong policy frameworks, and establish collaborations that go beyond conventional diplomatic limits.
At the recent ISC briefing held in Kuala Lumpur, Chairman Gilani gave an uplifting speech that encapsulated both his political philosophy and Pakistan’s approach to diplomacy. He highlighted that the ISC goes beyond being just another gathering—it stands as a forward-thinking endeavor grounded in concepts like interconnectedness, collective wealth creation, and globally recognized ideals. Gilani stressed again that genuine advancement happens only through cooperative efforts among lawmakers tackling worldwide issues including environmental shifts, income disparity, rapid tech changes, and shifting geo-political dynamics. Furthermore, he mentioned that consistent with the goals set forth by the ISC program, particular emphasis would be placed on fostering alliances and cooperation across three crucial domains: combating climate change, advancing renewable energy solutions, and addressing water scarcity concerns.
Drawing from his deep involvement in international affairs, particularly during his time as Pakistan’s Prime Minister, the Chairman emphasized that promoting dialogue, inclusion, and grassroots connections has consistently formed the bedrock of his political journey. He pointed out that platforms like the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), the Asia Pacific Assembly (APA), and the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) have significantly facilitated increased worldwide collaboration.
As the inaugural chairman of the ISC, he urged parliamentarians to turn common aspirations into concrete achievements. “It is essential that our joint endeavors result in implementable strategies ensuring regional security, harmony, and enduring progress,” he emphasized.
The Chairman highlighted the crucial part played by the ISC in tackling both internal problems and developing pioneering parliamentary answers for matters concerning the Korean Peninsula and wider regions. His speech during the conference garnered positive feedback, underscoring Pakistan’s dedication to maintaining regional tranquility, ensuring economic steadiness, and promoting international legal collaboration.
Chairman Gilani was accompanied by a distinguished group of senior parliamentarians and international representatives, highlighting the worldwide importance of this initiative.
As an additional related event, the Chairman of the Senate also engaged in talks with Tan Sri Dato’ (Dr) Johari bin Abdul, who serves as the Speaker of the Malaysian House of Representatives and currently holds the position of ASEAN President.
At the meeting with Tan Sri Dato’ (Dr) Johari bin Abdul, who serves as the Senate chairman, he commended and recognized the warm fraternal ties and strong bilateral connections between the parliaments of both nations. The discussions underscored the enduring bond between Pakistan and Malaysia and emphasized boosting parliamentary diplomacy via increased legislative interactions.
Following the meeting, there was a formal dinner hosted by the Malaysian Speaker to honor Gilani and other prominent attendees of the ISC briefing session.
In the meantime, Pakistani Ambassador to Malaysia Syed Ahsan Raza organized a dinner to honor Chairman Gilani. During this event, important topics related to the friendly relations and collaborative partnership between Pakistan and Malaysia were discussed.
Senator Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani greeted H.E. Tan Sri Dato’ (Dr) Johari bin Abdul, who serves as the Speaker of the Malaysian House of Representatives and currently holds the position of ASEAN president, when he visited Kuala Lumpur for a briefing on the upcoming Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference in Seoul.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
oleh admin | Apr 3, 2025 | asia, international relations, politics, politics and government, thailand
Bangkok
[
Thailand
On April 3 (ANI), Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated India’s dedication to
ASEAN
cooperation in unity within the Indo-Pacific region whilst reinforcing relationships
Thailand
, stating that
Thailand
occupies a “unique position” within India’s strategic outlook for the area, significantly contributing to India’s ‘Look East’ initiative as well as the wider Indo-Pacific strategy.
He further stressed that India supports “progressivism, not expansionism.”
“India fully supports
ASEAN
unity and
ASEAN
In the Indo-Pacific region, we both advocate for a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based order. We adhere to a policy focused on development rather than expansion.”
PM Modi
said.
Underlining
Thailand
‘a special spot,” the PM stated, ”
Thailand
holds a significant position within India’s ‘Act East’ policy and our Indo-Pacific strategy. Today, we have chosen to elevate our relationship into Strategic Partnerships. Additionally, we talked about setting up a ‘Strategic Dialogue’ among security organizations.
“We conveyed our thanks to the Government of
Thailand
“For the assistance they provided in repatriating Indian victims of cybercrime back to India,” he added.
PM Modi
Additionally, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra engaged in bilateral discussions aimed at enhancing collaboration across multiple fields such as tourism, culture, and commerce.
We have highlighted collaboration in areas such as tourism, culture, and education among the North-Eastern states of India.
Thailand
We discussed boosting reciprocal trade, investments, and business exchanges. Additionally, agreements were established to collaborate on MSMEs, textiles, and crafts.
PM Modi
said.
The Prime Minister additionally expressed gratitude
Thailand
For honoring his visit with a special postage stamp. “I am thankful to the government of
Thailand
For releasing a special commemorative postage stamp inspired by the 18th-century Ramayana mural paintings to mark my visit, Prime Minister Shinawatra has just handed me the Tripitaka. On behalf of Buddhist India, I received it respectfully with both hands,” he said.
Meanwhile, during his speech,
PM Modi
also emphasized the strong cultural and spiritual connections between India and
Thailand
“The ancient bonds between India and
Thailand
are interconnected through our rich cultural and spiritual heritage. The dissemination of Buddhism has united our peoples. Scholars have exchanged knowledge between Ayutthaya and Nalanda. The tale of the Ramayana is firmly rooted in Thai folklore, with traces of Sanskrit and Pali evident in the language and customs even now,” he observed.
PM Modi
showed gratitude to hisThai colleague for the hospitable reception inthe nation.” “Engaged ina fruitful conversationwithPrime MinisterPaetongtarnShinawatra during my visit.”
Bangkok
Some time back, thank you to the Thai people and government for their gracious reception. Additionally, I conveyed my support following the recent earthquake in Thailand. India’s ‘Look East Policy’ continues to be a cornerstone of our regional strategy.
Thailand
“‘s ‘Act West Policy’ complement each other effectively, opening up numerous opportunities for bilateral collaboration across various sectors,” he stated in a post on X.
He additionally highlighted major domains for security and defense collaboration. “Our talks centered around methods to further strengthen the strategic partnership between India and”
Thailand
The topics covered strategic matters like defense, security, maritime safety, and hydrography. Additionally, we reinforced our pledge to collaborate in tackling threats such as terrorism, money laundering, and more.
PM Modi
stated.
Within the same X post thread,
PM Modi
highlighted the significance of enhancing commercial relationships with
Thailand
.
“India and
Thailand
Are eager to bolster their economic and trade relationships. During my conversation with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, we discussed the strong cooperation between our nations in areas such as agriculture, small and medium-sized businesses, maritime affairs, financial technology, and aerospace. We also emphasized the importance of cultural connections in our talks,” he stated.
Thailand
PM also presented PM Narendra Modi with sacred texts: the World Tripitaka, in Pali. This particular version of the Tripitaka was released by the Thai government in 2016 to mark the reign of King Rama IX and Queen Sirikit.
Following this,
PM Modi
, through a tweet on X, conveyed his appreciation and stated, “This was an exceptionally kind act! I’m deeply thankful to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for presenting me with a copy of the Tipitaka in Pali. The language itself is truly elegant, encapsulating the core principles of Lord Buddha’s teachings. You will recall that our administration granted classical language status to Pali recently. This move has been celebrated globally and has spurred further interest in studying and researching this tongue.”
Earlier today, according to an official announcement from the Prime Minister’s Office,
PM Modi
saw an “enhancing” rendition of Thailand’s version of the epic poem Ramayana, known as Ramakien,
Bangkok
.
In an earlier post on X, he mentioned, “This cultural connection is unparalleled! I had the chance to see a mesmerizing rendition of Thailand’s version of the Ramayana called Ramakien. This event was genuinely enlightening as it vividly highlighted the common cultural and civilizational bonds linking India and”
Thailand
The Ramayana genuinely keeps bringing together hearts and customs throughout numerous regions of Asia.”
PM Modi
is in
Bangkok
At the invitation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for an official visit and participation in the sixth BIMSTEC Summit. Upon finishing his commitments in
Thailand
,, he plans to travel to Sri Lanka between April 4 and April 6. As stated by the PMO,
PM Modi
His forthcoming trip to Sri Lanka comes after President Disanayake’s visit to India last December. (ANI)
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Syndigate.info
).
oleh admin | Apr 3, 2025 | international relations, news, politics, politics and government, politics and law
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Commissioner Cui Jianchun has made ‘serious representations’ to US Consul General Gregory May regarding sanctions imposed on six officials.
The official from Beijing responsible for foreign affairs in Hong Kong has met with the senior US representative in the city to express formal protests regarding the recent sanctions imposed by Washington on six Chinese and local officials.
Cui Jianchun, the commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong, informed US Consul General Gregory May on Wednesday that Beijing will firmly respond to Washington’s hegemonic actions.
The gathering occurred one day following Washington’s announcement of new sanctions. This time, the targets included Justice Secretary Paul Lam Ting-kwok and ex-police chief Raymond Siu Chak-yee. The United States cited “transnational repression” of dissidents as per Hong Kong’s national security legislation, justifying these measures against them.
Are you looking for insights into the most significant issues and developments globally? Find your answers here.
SCMP Knowledge
Our latest platform features handpicked content including explainers, FAQs, analyses, and infographics, all provided by our prestigious team.
Washington additionally presented its most recent Hong Kong Policy Act Report to the US Congress, stating that both mainland and local Hong Kong officials have persistently exploited national security as an overly broad and ambiguous justification to erode the rule of law and encroach upon safeguarded rights and liberties within the region.
Beijing’s representative office in Hong Kong stated on Thursday that Cui had met with Carrie Lam the previous day to convey “serious representations” regarding the U.S.’s “unjustified sanctions” and its most recent report about the region.
The office stated that [Cui] strongly condemned and firmly opposed the U.S.’s blatant interference in Hong Kong and China’s internal matters, and forcefully cautioned the American side against underestimating China’s unwavering resolve to protect its national sovereignty, security, and developmental interests.
China will adopt decisive and strong retaliatory measures against the US actions that are seen as hegemonic and coercive.
Previously, Beijing stated that it would firmly respond to the U.S. regarding the newest set of sanctions, but did not provide specifics on potential retaliatory actions.
The Post has contacted the US consulate in Hong Kong seeking their input.
In addition to Lam and Siu, those who faced sanctions include Sonny Au Chi-kwong, the Secretary General of the Committee for Safeguarding National Security in Hong Kong; Dong Jingwei, Director of the Beijing Office for Safeguarding National Security in the city; as well as Assistant Police Commissioners Dick Wong Chung-chun and Margaret Chiu Wing-lan, both serving within the police’s National Security Department.
Individuals who have been sanctioned are forbidden from entering the United States. Additionally, all their property within the U.S. will be seized. They are also restricted from engaging in any transactions involving American citizens or entities located in the country.
In 2020, the United States imposed sanctions on 11 local and mainland officials due to the Beijing-enforced national security legislation. This included John Lee Ka-chiu, who was serving as the security secretary at that time before becoming the Chief Executive.
In reaction, China enforced sanctions on 11 prominent US senators and officials, such as current Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
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The article initially appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), which serves as the premier source of news covering China and Asia.
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