Press Releases

Statement on the Situation surrounding Hong Kong
(Statement by Press Secretary YOSHIDA Tomoyuki)

March 11, 2021
Japanese
  1. Japan’s grave concern is intensifying over the decision made by China’s National People’s Congress to change the electoral system in Hong Kong following a series of arrests and prosecutions of a number of pro-democracy politicians and activists since the enactment of the national security law last June.
  2. In particular, the decision this time will further undermine the confidence in the ‘One Country Two System’ framework as provided for in the Hong Kong Basic Law and the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration which have been the cornerstone of Hong Kong’s prosperity, and also represents a major setback for the high degree of autonomy in Hong Kong. Japan cannot overlook this.
  3. It is the long-standing position of Japan to attach great importance to upholding a free and open system which Hong Kong has been enjoying and the democratic and stable development of Hong Kong under the ‘One Country Two System’ framework.
  4. Japan calls on China to hold relevant elections in Hong Kong in a fair manner that are open to candidates representing a wide range of political opinions. Japan has conveyed such views to China and will continue to cooperate with the international community in urging China to take concrete actions.
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