The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Monday strongly opposed a statement by the Group of Seven (G7) for "grossly interfering" in the affairs of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), saying the decision adopted by China's top legislature to improve Hong Kong's electoral system is "legitimate and reasonable."

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian's remarks came in response to a joint statement by the G7 foreign ministers and the high representative of the EU on Friday expressing concern over China's decision on the HKSAR's electoral system.

At the regular press briefing, Zhao said that the National People's Congress (NPC)'s decision to improve Hong Kong's electoral system is a major measure to safeguard the overall and fundamental interests of the HKSAR, and will help facilitate the steady and sound development of Hong Kong's democracy.

He questioned the G7 for its silence on human rights conditions and democracy in Hong Kong when the colonial government cracked down on Hong Kong residents amid a century under British colonial rule. 

It has been 24 years since Hong Kong returned to the motherland, Zhao said, urging related parties to immediately stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs in line with international laws.

The spokesperson said that China is unswervingly determined to safeguard its sovereignty, security and development interests and Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability.