Taiwan Condemns Sentencing of Hong Kong Activists

Taiwan has condemned China's recent sentencing of 45 pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong, asserting that 'democracy is not a crime.' The activists were convicted under Hong Kong's national security law, which critics argue has severely undermined political freedoms. Taiwan's Presidential Office emphasized that the jailing of these activists not only breaches promises of autonomy but also reveals the failure of the 'one country, two systems' principle. International reactions have been swift, with the U.S. and Australia denouncing the sentences as politically motivated and a violation of rights. In response, China defended the convictions, stating that no one can evade legal punishment under the guise of democracy and that it supports Hong Kong in safeguarding national security. Taiwan vowed to continue its support for Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement and called on the global community to monitor the situation closely.