U.S. and Hong Kong (2003)

Press Statement
Philip T. Reeker, Deputy Spokesman
Washington, DC
June 5, 2003

Deputy Secretary's Meeting With a Hong Kong Delegation

Deputy Secretary of State Richard L. Armitage met today with a delegation from Hong Kong led by Legislative Council Member and Democratic Party founder Martin Lee.

The delegation expressed deep concerns about proposed laws on subversion and sedition. The Deputy Secretary assured them that the United States remains deeply committed to the preservation of Hong Kong's high degree of autonomy and the fundamental freedoms of the Hong Kong people. He also told the group the United States strongly believes that implementation of the proposed laws on sedition and subversion must not result in any restrictions on individual liberties, religious freedom, freedom of the press, and freedom of speech in Hong Kong. The Deputy Secretary emphasized we will follow developments in Hong Kong closely and continue to express our concerns publicly.

[End]

Released on June 5, 2003