China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Monday that it has imposed sanctions on several U.S. lawmakers, government officials, and leaders of non-governmental organizations due to what it described as their “egregious conduct” regarding Hong Kong affairs.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that the move is a direct response to Washington’s decision last month to sanction six Chinese and Hong Kong officials—a move Beijing has strongly opposed.
“Any improper action by the United States concerning Hong Kong will be met with firm and reciprocal retaliation from China,” Guo warned.
The U.S. had previously sanctioned Hong Kong Police Commissioner Raymond Siu Chak-yee and five other individuals over alleged human rights violations. These sanctions mean their assets in the U.S. are frozen, and any financial dealings with them within U.S. jurisdiction are considered illegal.