China Discontent With US Criticism of Beijing's Anti-Terrorism Law

A spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Wednesday voiced discontent with the US criticism of the anti-terrorism law expected to be adopted in China.

MOSCOW (Sputnik) — On Monday, the Chinese parliament started to review the anti-terrorism bill in the third reading, recommending to adopt it. On Tuesday, Washington expressed concerns about the possible adoption of the law, saying that it could do more harm than good.

"We have paid attention to the US statements. We voice discontent in this regard," Hong Lei told reporters.

Hong said that Beijing was justified in adopting the law because terrorism was threatening Chinese national security.

He added that the United States should respect China's domestic policy and expressed hope that Washington would not follow double standards by claiming it was making efforts to fight terrorism and, simultaneously, opposing anti-terrorism legislation.

At the moment, there is no specific anti-terrorism law in China. The proposed legislation significantly strengthens the exchange of information between the Chinese authorities and security services and tightens cybersecurity measures, as well as transport checks and border controls.