My opinion about BNO for Hongkong Citizens

The British government has introduced a new citizenship formula for the people of Hongkong. As usual, the Chinese government once again infuriated by Britain’s move. China had announced in February this year that it would not recognize the BNO passport as a valid document.

This all started when Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijiang said in February 2021 that Britain was trying to give second-class British citizenship to Hong Kong people in large numbers.

Beijing, agencies. The conflict in China and Britain have increased regarding Hong Kong. When London proposed a British National Overseas (BNO) passport to open the way for granting citizenship to people in the China-controlled region, Beijing said it would not recognize the passport.

Incidentally, China’s repressive policies in Hong Kong opposed by many countries, including Britain and America. China imposed the National Security Act in Hong Kong last year to curb democracy advocates.

Fueled by Britain’s move, China immediately reacted that it would not recognize the BNO passport as a valid document. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijiang said, ‘Britain is unnecessarily trying to interfere and making second-class citizens to Hong Kong nationals in large numbers.

This is a serious interference in China’s sovereignty and internal affairs. This is also a gross violation of international laws and basic rules of international relations. Meanwhile, the British government has announced that they will begin the process of applying for the BNO passport on 31 January for Hongkong citizens.

At least 540 thousand Hong Kong citizens will be eligible for this passport. Referring to the BNO passport, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said, ‘I am thrilled that we are opening an alternative way for Hong Kong citizens to live, work and make their home in our country.

It is noteworthy that in 2019, anti-China agitation broke out in Hong Kong. Pro-democracy students, teachers, and people staged protests for a long time on the streets.

China implemented the National Security Act last year in Hong Kong to prevent such acts. By the way, this move was under criticism worldwide, and the world community felt that China wanted to strengthen its hold over the region under the false accusation.

I have no doubt in my mind that China was breaking its promise to uphold Hong Kong’s autonomy and civil rights. In fact, China is not bothered about citizens and their rights anywhere in the world including her own.

What is a BNO passport? It simply means that Hong Kong citizens will have a right to live and work in the UK for five years based on a BNO passport, and then they will be eligible to apply for British citizenship.

Incidentally, Hong Kong handed over to China by Britain in 1997 on certain conditions. Britain handed Hong Kong to China with the condition that it would uphold its autonomy and civil rights, which are under serious threat from Chinese actions.

My sympathies with Hongkong and her citizens. What's your opinion on this issue?