Beijing slams US, UK, Australia and EU over Jimmy Lai sentencing remarks
South China Morning Post
by Fiona SunFebruary 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
China’s Hong Kong representative office has strongly condemned recent remarks made by US, UK, Australian, and EU officials regarding the sentencing of Jimmy Lai, the former media tycoon in Hong Kong. The office summoned representatives from these countries and blocs to express "solemn dissatisfaction" over their criticisms of China’s handling of national security cases. China emphasized its commitment to upholding sovereignty and the rule of law in Hong Kong under the National Security Law.
Jimmy Lai, 78, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and distribute seditious materials. His case marks one of the toughest penalties under Hong Kong’s National Security Law, which came into effect after the 2019 protests. Lai had been a prominent critic of Chinese policies and a key figure in the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong.
The Chinese government has consistently defended its actions in Hong Kong as necessary to maintain stability and security. However, international criticism over cases like Lai’s highlights ongoing tensions between China and Western countries regarding Hong Kong’s autonomy. The case underscores broader diplomatic disputes over issues of sovereignty, human rights, and the rule of law in the region.
This situation matters globally because it reflects a clash between China’s assertion of internal affairs sovereignty and international concerns about democratic freedoms and human rights. As Hong Kong continues to navigate its legal landscape under Beijing’s influence, such cases are likely to spark further debate and diplomatic tensions worldwide.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/14/2026