The government of Hong Kong firmly rejected a letter from US politicians accusing the country of damaging its reputation as an international financial center. A spokesperson for the SAR government emphasized that the claims in the letter were baseless and described it as a malicious attempt to spread false information for personal gain.
According to the spokesperson, Hong Kong has been diligently enforcing sanctions imposed by the United Nations Security Council to meet its international obligations. The government’s top priority is to uphold the integrity and strength of the city’s financial systems.
The SAR government takes pride in being recognized by the Financial Action Task Force for its compliance with international standards on anti-money laundering and counter-financing of terrorism. They have a robust legal framework and effective systems in place for identifying and mitigating risks, as well as for law enforcement, asset recovery, and international cooperation.
The letter from US lawmakers alleged that Hong Kong is increasingly being used as a hub for money laundering, sanctions evasion, and other illicit financial activities. However, the SAR government has strongly refuted these claims and remains committed to upholding the highest standards of financial integrity.
It is essential for Hong Kong to maintain its reputation as a trusted and reliable international financial center. The government’s swift response to these allegations underscores its dedication to combating financial crime and upholding global standards of compliance.
The SAR government’s proactive efforts to enforce sanctions and combat illicit financial activities demonstrate its commitment to fulfilling its international obligations and preserving the integrity of its financial systems. By adhering to international standards and regulations, Hong Kong can continue to thrive as a key player in the global financial landscape.