Beijing Warns US It Will Retaliate On Moves Over HK

China said on Monday that US attempts to harm Chinese interests will be met with firm countermeasures, criticising a US decision to begin ending special treatment for Hong Kong as well as actions against Chinese students and companies.

US President Donald Trump said on Friday that Beijing's move to impose national security legislation on Hong Kong was a tragedy for the people of the city, and it violates China's promise to protect the SAR's autonomy.

Trump ordered his administration to begin the process of eliminating special US treatment for Hong Kong to punish China, ranging from extradition treatment to export controls.

But he stopped short of calling an immediate end to privileges that have helped the former British colony remain a global financial centre.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said China firmly opposed the US steps.

"The announced measures severely interfere with China's internal affairs, damage US-China relations, and will harm both sides. China is firmly opposed to this," Zhao told reporters during a regular briefing.

"Any words or actions by the US that harm China's interests will meet with China's firm counterattack," he said. (Reuters)