Photo: VCG

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Le Yucheng on Thursday summoned U.S. Ambassador to China Terry Branstad to lodge stern representations and strong protest against the United States signing of the so-called Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2019 into law.

"China strongly urges the U.S. to correct its mistake and make a fresh start, not to put the Act into effect, and immediately stop meddling in Hong Kong affairs or interfering in China's other internal affairs so as to avoid making further damages to bilateral ties and cooperation in important areas between China and the United States," Le demanded.

As for the wrong move taken by the United States, China will take countermeasures in response and the U.S. must bear all the consequences that may ensue, he said.

The United States' signing of the so-called Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2019 into law is a severe interference in Hong Kong affairs, which are China's internal affairs. It is also in serious violation of the international law and basic norms governing international relations. It is a gross hegemonic move, Le said, noting that the Chinese government and the people express strong indignation and firm opposition against it.

Hong Kong is part of China and Hong Kong affairs are China's internal affairs, brooking no interference from any foreign government or force, he said.

The Chinese government has unswerving determination to defend national sovereignty, security and development interests, implement "one country, two systems" principle and oppose any external force in interfering in Hong Kong affairs, Le stressed.