HONG KONG:Ukraine asks Hong Kong not to let Russia circumvent sanctions: Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba visited Hong Kong on Thursday to meet with its leader John Lee, urging measures to prevent Russia from exploiting Hong Kong to evade Western sanctions imposed due to the conflict in Ukraine.
Both Hong Kong and China are perceived by the US government as crucial channels through which Russia acquires materials for its military, such as semiconductors and drone components.
According to previously undisclosed US Commerce Department data reported by Reuters, Hong Kong remains a global hotspot for sanctions evasion, despite a 20% decrease this year in shipments of semiconductors and other restricted goods routed through China and Hong Kong.
China, the world’s second-largest economy, has positioned itself as neutral regarding the Ukraine conflict but declared a “no limits” partnership with Russia shortly before the 2022 invasion. China has also provided diplomatic support and economic assistance, helping sustain Russia’s economy during wartime.
The Hong Kong government has previously stated it does not enforce unilateral sanctions imposed by other countries but rigorously implements sanctions mandated by the United Nations Security Council, following directives from China’s Foreign Ministry.
Following over three hours of discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Guangzhou on Wednesday, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba traveled to Hong Kong. The talks primarily centered on strategies to end Russia’s full-scale war in Ukraine, reflecting ongoing diplomatic efforts amidst the conflict.
