CANBERRA, Australia (AP) — Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday criticized Hong Kong authorities for their persecution of two pro-democracy activists who live in Australia.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said on Tuesday that eight pro-democracy activists now living in the United States, Britain, Canada and Australia will be prosecuted for life for alleged national security crimes, dismissing criticism. that the move to arrest them was a dangerous move. preceding.
Albanese said his government was concerned and disappointed by Hong Kong authorities issuing arrest warrants for Australian citizen Kevin Yam and Australian permanent resident Ted Hui.
“Of course I am disappointed. I have said that we will cooperate with China where we can. But we will disagree where we should. And we do not agree with China on these actions,” Albanese told Australian Broadcasting Corp.
Albanese also said it disagreed with China over the detention of Australian journalist Cheng Lei, who has yet to hear a verdict after going on trial in March last year. on national security charges.
He said Cheng was being held “without proper process.”
“We continue to defend Australia’s interests. We will continue to do so. We will disagree where we must. We will participate in our national interest. And this overnight decision is an example of how Australia and China have different approaches to these issues. And we will stand up for our values,” Albanese said.