Q: On July 1st, when taking up a question on the July 1st demonstration in Hong Kong, Deputy Spokesman of the US State Department Ereli alleged that it was up to the people and government of Hong Kong to determine the pace and scope of democratization in Hong Kong. What comment do you have on this?

A: Since Hong Kong's return to the motherland, the guidelines of "one country, two systems", "Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong" and a high degree of autonomy have been fully implemented. The legitimate rights and freedom of Hong Kong residents have been fully safeguarded.

We have always maintained that democracy in Hong Kong should be developed in line with the realities in the region. Only the gradual and orderly progress of the political structure in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in accordance with the Basic Law serves the interests of all strata and communities in Hong Kong and benefits the long-term prosperity and stability of the Hong Kong society.

Hong Kong's affairs fall within China's internal affairs. We stand firmly against any irresponsible and inappropriate remarks from any foreign country on Hong Kong.