The 53rd six-monthly report on Hong Kong, released by the UK government, is a sheer misrepresentation of facts and grossly interferes in Hong Kong's affairs, which are China's internal affairs, the Chinese Embassy in the United Kingdom said on Tuesday.

A spokesperson from the embassy made these remarks in response to the relevant report, which claims that China remains in a state of ongoing non-compliance with the Sino-British Joint Declaration and criticizes the national security law and the electoral system in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

"It seriously violates basic norms governing international relations. We strongly deplore and firmly oppose it," the spokesperson said.

The essence of the Sino-British Joint Declaration is to ensure China resumes the exercise of sovereignty over Hong Kong, the spokesperson said, adding that it does not give the UK any responsibility over the region after its return to the motherland.

The spokesperson stressed that the UK has no sovereignty, jurisdiction or right of "supervision" over the HKSAR after its return.

By repeatedly citing the joint declaration as an excuse to make irresponsible remarks on China's policy on the HKSAR, the UK essentially tries to embolden anti-China forces destabilizing Hong Kong and continue to make trouble for the region, said the spokesperson, adding that this attempt will never succeed. 

"Facts speak loud and clear that the national security law and the improved electoral system have enabled Hong Kong to enter a new stage in which it has restored order and is set to thrive." 

The spokesperson said the rule of law is better upheld in the region at present, noting that the HKSAR society is more stable and united, and the rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong residents in accordance with the law are better protected.

The HKSAR government's action regarding those suspected of violating the national security law in accordance with the law is constitutional and legal, and conforms to people's will, said the spokesperson, adding that it is a just move to maintain the rule of law in Hong Kong and what is required to safeguard China's national sovereignty and security, which is beyond reproach and brooks no interference. 

"We once again urge the UK side to respect the fact that Hong Kong has already returned to the motherland and respect China's sovereignty," the spokesperson said, urging the UK to let go of its colonial mentality, stop releasing relevant reports, and stop interfering in Hong Kong's affairs under any pretext.

(Cover: A view of south China's Hong Kong. /CFP)