China has dismissed criticism from the US and EU over its new law on ethnic unity, calling it a “malicious smear” and interference in its internal affairs. The law, which went into effect on Wednesday, gives Beijing the basis to take action against people outside its borders who are deemed to be undermining “ethnic unity and progress” or inciting “ethnic separatism”.
Taiwan Concerns
Taiwan has expressed alarm over the law, with one senior official likening it to an “imperial edict” with a “global and almost boundless” scope. The law could give Beijing another legal basis to go after Taiwanese it views as separatists.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said the law is intended to strengthen the rule of law and protect the rights and interests of all ethnic groups. He accused certain countries of “maliciously smearing” China’s ethnic policies and interfering in its internal affairs.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
