US imposes new visa restrictions on multiple Hong Kong officials over crackdown on rights, freedoms

By Iclal Turan

WASHINGTON (AA) - The US on Friday announced it is taking steps to impose new visa restrictions on multiple Hong Kong officials responsible for the “intensifying crackdown on rights and freedoms” in the Chinese-ruled territory.

In a statement, Secretary of State Antony Blinken accused China of actions against Hong Kong’s promised high degree of autonomy, democratic institutions, and rights and freedoms, including the recent enactment of legislation under Article 23 of the Basic Law

“In response, the Department of State is announcing that it is taking steps to impose new visa restrictions on multiple Hong Kong officials responsible for the intensifying crackdown on rights and freedoms, pursuant to Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act,” Blinken said in a statement.

“We are committed to continuing to work with Congress and the international community to stand with the people in Hong Kong in calling for the restoration of Hong Kongers’ protected rights and freedoms, the immediate release of those unjustly detained or imprisoned under the National Security Law, and respect for the rule of law,” he added.