U.S. President Joe Biden ordered on January 26 to extend the "Deferred Enforced Departure" (DED) program for Hong Kong residents in Hong Kong for two years, pointing out that the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong people have been continuously eroded by China.
The White House statement pointed out that after the Chinese government unilaterally implemented the Hong Kong National Security Law in June 2020, the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong people guaranteed by the Basic Law and the Sino-British Joint Declaration have been eroded by Beijing, and continue to damage Hong Kong’s autonomy. remaining democratic processes, restricting academic freedom and cracking down on media freedom.
The statement mentioned that since June 2020, at least 150 opposition politicians and demonstrators in Hong Kong have been charged with politically motivated national security laws, including secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces. seizure.
More than 1,200 political prisoners and tens of thousands have been prosecuted for participating in anti-government demonstrations.
Biden said that these are urgent foreign policy reasons for extending the "delayed forced departure" program, and the original plan expired on February 5 this year, and now it is decided to extend it for 24 months.
He reiterated Washington's determination to pursue a foreign policy that unites democratic values, defends democracy and promotes human rights.
He believes that providing a safe haven to Hong Kong people who have been deprived of their guaranteed freedoms will further promote the interests of the United States in the region. Washington will continue to firmly support Hong Kong people.
The UK released the "Half-Year Report on the Hong Kong Issue" and the foreign minister urged Li Jiachao to respect the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong
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