Jimmy Lai Denies Foreign Collusion Allegations

In his national security trial, former Hong Kong publisher Jimmy Lai denied asking then-U.S. Vice President Mike Pence and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to intervene against China during the 2019 protests. Lai, arrested in 2020 and facing potential life imprisonment for collusion with foreign forces and seditious publications, testified that he only sought verbal support for Hong Kong's autonomy, stating, 'not to do something but to say something.' He discussed his meetings with various international figures, including Taiwan's former President Tsai Ing-wen, but maintained he never attempted to sway foreign policy. Lai's case is viewed as a crucial indicator of media freedom and judicial independence in Hong Kong. Critics argue that Beijing's promise to uphold civil liberties in the territory has deteriorated under the national security law. The trial underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding freedom of expression in the region.