U.S. Imposes Visa Restrictions on Hong Kong Officials Over Rights Crackdown

Beijing condemns the move, while the State Department reports increased threats to U.S. interests in the city.

The U.S. plans to impose new visa restrictions on Hong Kong officials deemed responsible for the crackdown on rights and freedoms following the enactment of Article 23 of the Basic Law.
Beijing's foreign ministry arm in Hong Kong strongly criticizes the U.S. move, labeling it as political maneuvering that belongs in the 'dustbin of history'.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirms that Hong Kong will not receive special consideration under U.S. law, citing continuous actions against Hong Kong's autonomy and freedoms.
The State Department's 2024 report highlights new actions by China that threaten U.S. interests in Hong Kong, including heightened risks for Americans living in the city.
Despite criticism, Hong Kong maintains key policy differences from mainland China in areas like trade policy and internet access, according to the State Department.