Blinken: New Visa Restrictions to Be Imposed on Hong Kong Officials Suppressing People | WPN World People News

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has pointed out that **China and Hong Kong** have intensified their suppression of people and dissenting voices over the past year. This includes the recent enactment of a new national security law, specifically **Article 23**. In response, the United States is implementing **new visa restrictions** on several Hong Kong officials.

The U.S. State Department annually submits the **"Hong Kong Policy Act Report"** to Congress along with supporting evidence. Blinken emphasized that China has continued actions in the past year that undermine Hong Kong's **high degree of autonomy**, democratic institutions, rights, and freedoms, including the legislative enactment of **Article 23** of the Basic Law.

Blinken stated that the U.S. remains committed to working with Congress and the international community, standing alongside the people of Hong Kong. The U.S. calls for the restoration of protected rights and freedoms, the immediate release of individuals unjustly detained or imprisoned under the national security law, and respect for the rule of law.