Jimmy Lai, prominent Hong Kong media tycoon, gives testimony in historic national security trial.

Jimmy Lai, a former Hong Kong publisher, testified at his trial that he met with then-Vice President Mike Pence and then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo during the 2019 anti-government protests, but did not ask the officials to take action. Lai faces life in prison if convicted of colluding with foreign forces to endanger national security and conspiring to issue seditious publications. However, he denies attempting to influence foreign policy regarding Hong Kong or China through overseas connections. Lai’s case is important for press freedom and judicial independence in Hong Kong. Critics argue that Beijing’s promise to maintain civil liberties in Hong Kong has eroded under the national security law. Prosecutors allege that Lai sought U.S. support against Beijing during the protests. Many activists and pro-democracy figures have faced prosecution or exile under the law. Lai has received support from U.S. and British officials, as well as from some members of the international community. Lai stated that he introduced U.S. officials to Taiwan’s former President Tsai Ing-wen but denies advocating for Hong Kong independence. As a media tycoon, Lai believes in the importance of freedom and democracy. His son has criticized his treatment in prison as inhumane. The case highlights tensions between the U.S., China, and Hong Kong over human rights and national security issues.

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