HONG KONG: Jailed Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai testified on Thursday (Jan 16) that he brokered conferences between former Taiwan chief Tsai Ing-wen and American institution figures, with prosecutors alleging that he colluded with overseas forces.
Lai is without doubt one of the most distinguished figures to be prosecuted beneath Hong Kong’s nationwide safety legislation, which Beijing imposed in 2020 following enormous pro-democracy protests within the metropolis.
Western nations and rights teams have demanded the discharge of the 77-year-old founding father of the now-shuttered tabloid Apple Every day, who has been behind bars since December 2020.
Lai first took the witness stand in November and prosecutors started cross-examination on Thursday after defence attorneys wrapped up their questioning.
The offence of collusion with overseas forces carries a most penalty of life in jail. Lai additionally faces a cost associated to “seditious publications”.
On Thursday, Lai stated he arrange a paid “consultancy” association in 2017 the place retired United States normal Jack Keane and former US deputy secretary of defence Paul Wolfowitz would meet with Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan’s chief on the time.
Lai stated that, shortly after Trump turned president in 2016, Tsai’s authorities had needed perception into the most recent US considering on the self-ruled island.
“(Keane and Wolfowitz) had been each my mates and so they appeared to know concerning the (Trump) administration’s sentiments and considering towards Taiwan,” Lai instructed the courtroom.
Prosecutors offered messages in courtroom they stated confirmed Lai supporting a stronger US navy presence in Taiwan.
“I recommend to you that the aim of participating (Keane and Wolfowitz) was to provide recommendation to Taiwan for a navy improve,” stated prosecutor Anthony Chau.
“I disagree,” Lai replied.
