Thu Nov 21 05:58:45 UTC 2024: ## Hong Kong Media Tycoon Jimmy Lai Denies Colluding with US Officials in National Security Trial

**HONG KONG, Nov 21, 2024** – Jimmy Lai, the founder of the now-defunct pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily, pleaded not guilty on Wednesday to charges of colluding with foreign forces and sedition. Testifying in his landmark national security trial, Lai denied requesting that former US Vice President Mike Pence and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo take action against Hong Kong and China during the 2019 anti-government protests.

While acknowledging meetings with Pence and Pompeo in 2019, Lai stated he only sought their vocal support for Hong Kong, not direct intervention. He also detailed meetings with other US, British, and Taiwanese officials, including former Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen and former Hong Kong governor Chris Patten, emphasizing he never attempted to influence foreign policy.

Lai, facing a potential life sentence if convicted, maintains his actions were those of a businessman and social activist, not a conspirator against national security. His trial, drawing significant attention and a large crowd, is widely viewed as a crucial test of media freedom and judicial independence in Hong Kong. The trial continues Thursday.

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