In a statement, the government expressed strong dissatisfaction with, and firm opposition to, the baseless slanders by various Western countries, anti-China media outlets, organisations, and politicians.
A spokesman said the reasons for verdict handed down by the court clearly emphasised that the defendants were put on trial not because of their political views or beliefs.
He said the court would only consider the laws and evidence relevant to the case to decide whether the prosecution is able to prove the charge beyond reasonable doubt.
“Members of the public should not be misled by the external forces’ attempts to smear, but must be able to distinguish between right and wrong, and clearly understand the difference between this case and the normal situation regarding the exercise of freedoms of association, assembly and speech,” he said.