Hong Kong Pro-Democracy Activist Jimmy Lai Testifies in National Security Trial

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Hong Kong pro-democracy figure Jimmy Lai testified on Wednesday for the first time in his landmark national security trial, denying allegations that he attempted to influence U.S. foreign policy regarding China and Hong Kong. Lai, 76, a British and Hong Kong citizen and founder of the now-defunct pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily, faces charges under Hong Kong’s controversial national security law, which critics argue has been used to suppress dissent.

Lai has pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and conspiracy to publish seditious material. The charges stem from claims that he and others sought foreign intervention, primarily from the United States, to impose sanctions or other hostile actions against the Hong Kong and Chinese governments. One of the key allegations involves meetings Lai had in July 2019 with U.S. officials, including then-Vice President Mike Pence and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, during mass pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong.

In court, Lai denied attempting to influence U.S. foreign policy. Under oath, he testified, “I would not dare to ask the vice president to do anything. I would just relay to him what happened in Hong Kong when he asked me.” He further explained that his discussion with Pompeo was more about expressing the situation in Hong Kong, stating, “I asked him not to do something but to say something. To voice support for Hong Kong.”

Lai also detailed his efforts to facilitate a channel between U.S. officials and the Taiwan administration, including introducing former U.S. Deputy Defense Secretary Paul Wolfowitz and retired General Jack Keane to former Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen’s representatives. He described his aim as enhancing mutual understanding between the U.S. and Taiwan, highlighting his personal friendship with Tsai.

In response to Lai’s testimony, a spokesperson from China’s foreign ministry criticized him, labeling Lai as the “main planner and participant” in anti-China activities. The ministry emphasized that illegal actions would face legal consequences.

Lai, however, defended his actions, asserting that his principles, as reflected in Apple Daily, aligned with Hong Kong's commitment to freedoms and the rule of law. “We were always in support of movements for freedom,” Lai told the court, adding that he opposed both Hong Kong and Taiwan independence. His trial, along with the recent imprisonment of 45 pro-democracy activists, has drawn widespread international attention to the shrinking space for dissent in Hong Kong.