Beijing’s Foreign Ministry has warned Australia “against going down the wrong path” in its response to national security laws imposed on Hong Kong, according to The Australian’s Richard Ferguson.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison and the federal cabinet will review a plan to fast track the skilled visa program next week to provide safe passage for Hong Kong nationals wanting to escape the new legislation. Protests erupted in Hong Kong after China enforced new national security laws which criminalise secession, terrorism, subversion and colluding with foreign forces.
Mr Ferguson told Sky News the review process would be “another fascinating move in our ever-deteriorating relationship with China". He said Australia’s move would clearly be viewed “as a provocation”. “But considering it’s a global effort and considering the fact that China has basically decided to run roughshod over the Hong Kong right to self-determination, I think there’s very little choice here and I think a lot of people will welcome it,” he said.
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