HK officials hit out at Canada suspension of extradition treaty

HONG KONG – Senior officials of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region's government criticized Canada on Saturday for putting politics above the rule of law by suspending an extradition treaty with the financial hub.

The Canadian government announced the move on Friday, a few days after the passage of a national security law for the HKSAR. It also halted sensitive military gear exports to the HKSAR and updated travel advisory for Canadians traveling to the city.

Hong Kong's Secretary for Security John Lee Ka-chiu, speaking on a local radio program Saturday morning, said Canada needs to explain the move.

He said every year the two jurisdictions extradite one or two suspects of serious crimes, adding the enactment of the national security law would not affect normal people's legitimate rights.

Secretary for Justice Teresa Cheng Yeuk-wah, speaking on the same program, said she is extremely regretful about Canada's decision to suspend the extradition treaty. She said Canada appears to be attempting to interfere in China's internal affairs, adding the move would undermine global rule of law.

Both officials urged Hong Kong residents to abide by the national security law and avoid slogans such as "Liberate Hong Kong, the revolution of our times." The duo said such slogans indicate an intention to separate the HKSAR from the nation or subvert state power.

Lee also said that with the exception of urgent cases, such as potential terror acts, the police force will apply for search warrants from local courts when investigating national security cases.