The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government on Thursday strongly condemned a so-called “resolution” passed by the European Parliament concerning Hong Kong, denouncing it as “baseless accusations”, and an attempt to smear the city’s national security laws.

The resolution, passed by the European Parliament earlier in the day, called for the immediate and unconditional release of Jimmy Lai Chee-ying, founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily. Lai was convicted in December of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces to endanger national security and conspiracy to publish seditious publications. Sentencing for Lai and his codefendants will be announced at a later date.

A government spokesperson criticized the European Parliament for disregarding the court’s independent judgment, saying that the court had delivered an 855-page verdict which is fully open for public inspection, and includes the court’s analysis of the relevant legal principles and evidence.

“The court’s conviction verdict is well-founded and reasoned, fully demonstrating that the court has made its decision on the case strictly in accordance with the law and evidence, free from any interference, and absolutely free of any political considerations,” the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson also rejected the European Parliament’s claim that Lai’s conviction infringed on press freedom, asserting that Lai and his associates had used journalism as a guise to engage in activities that threatened national security and destabilized Hong Kong society.

The statement added that freedoms of the press and speech are guaranteed under the Basic Law and the Bill of Rights. The spokesperson said that international conventions, including the European Convention on Human Rights, recognize that journalists have obligations to protect national security and public order.

Addressing concerns about Lai’s treatment in custody, the government said that everyone in custody is entitled to adequate medical care, with round-the-clock medical services provided by Department of Health doctors, and specialist consultations arranged when necessary. Lai’s defense team confirmed in the open hearing on Jan 12 that Lai had no complaint at all regarding his custodial arrangements.

The spokesperson urged the European Parliament to “understand the facts” and that “it is never too late to mend”, reiterating Hong Kong’s commitment to implementing national security laws while safeguarding residents’ lawful rights and freedoms. The HKSAR government pledged to continue upholding the rule of law and the “one country, two systems” principle, while resolutely preventing and punishing acts that endanger national security.