China urges EU not to meddle in HK affairs

The Chinese Mission to the European Union (EU) on Wednesday urged the EU side to stop meddling in China's internal affairs after it accused Beijing of using the National Security Law to stifle Hong Kong's "press freedom and the free expression of opinions."

A European External Action Service (EEAS) statement made the accusation after Hong Kong newspaper Apple Daily announced its

closure

on Wednesday afternoon.

The Chinese spokesperson denounced the EU remarks, saying it has openly interfered in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs and seriously violated international law and the basic principles of international relations.

"The action taken by the Hong Kong police against individuals and companies suspected of endangering national security is action to crack down on crimes in accordance with the law and to effectively maintain the rule of law and social order. It has nothing to do with freedom of the press," the spokesperson said.