Statement by President Joe Biden on the Hong Kong Apple Daily

The White House
June 24, 2021

It is a sad day for media freedom in Hong Kong and around the world. Beijing’s escalating crackdown has reached such a level that the Apple Daily, a vital bastion of independent journalism in Hong Kong, has ceased publication. Through arrests, threats and the entry into force of a national security law that penalizes free speech, Beijing has persisted in wielding its power to censor independent media and silence dissenting opinions. .

Independent media play an invaluable role in resilient and prosperous societies. Journalists are truth-brokers who hold leaders to account and ensure the free flow of information, which is needed more than ever in Hong Kong and in places of the world where democracy is threatened. Beijing must stop targeting the independent press and must release journalists and media officials who are detained. The act of journalism is not a crime.

The people of Hong Kong have the right to freedom of the press. Instead, Beijing denies fundamental freedoms and attacks Hong Kong’s autonomy and democratic institutions and processes, which is contrary to its international obligations. The United States will not waver in its support for the people of Hong Kong and all those who stand up for the fundamental freedoms that everyone deserves.

View original content: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/06/24/statement-by-president-joe-biden-on-hong-kongs-apple-daily/

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