Q: The Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law has been officially implemented. Certain Australian medias have reported that this law, which pursues the legal responsibilities of overseas organizations and individuals, serves as a legal tool to expand China’s “extraterritorial jurisdiction”. How do you respond to these claims?

A: The Chinese side has noted the relevant reports. Some media outlets misrepresented the Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law and smeared it as “extraterritorial jurisdiction” and “long-arm jurisdiction”. Such kind of views are unobjective and legally unfounded.

Maintaining social solidarity and order, guarding against secession and sabotage through domestic legislation complies with the common practice all over the world including Australia. The Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law grounded in China’s national conditions, consistent with legal principles and international practices. The relevant provision contributes to safeguarding ethnic harmony, territorial integrity, national unity and security.

China is a country governed by the rule of law. All law enforcement and judicial activities in China are carried out based on facts and the law, and will not affect normal people-to-people and cultural exchanges, academic dialogue, or economic and trade cooperation between China and other countries.

We urge the relevant media outlets to establish a correct perception of China, and view China’s ethnic policies and rule of law in an objective, rational and impartial manner.