Violence in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/escalating-violent-acts-pushing-hong-kong-to-verge-of-very-dangerous-situation-government-245777">Hong Kong's anti-government protests</a> is becoming more serious but the government is confident it can handle the crisis itself, the city's embattled leader said on Tuesday.

Carrie Lam was speaking in public for the first time since demonstrations escalated on Sunday, when <a href="wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-arrest-36-youngest-aged-12-after-running-battles-with-protesters-245706">police fired water cannon and volleys of tear gas</a> in running battles with protesters who threw bricks and petrol bombs.

The Chinese-ruled city is grappling with its biggest political crisis since its handover to Beijing in 1997 and Communist Party authorities have sent a clear warning that forceful intervention is possible to quell the violence.

Hong Kong's Beijing-backed leader said she would not give up on building a platform for dialogue, although the time was not right to set up an independent inquiry into the crisis, one of the cornerstone demands of protesters.

"We should prepare for reconciliation in society by communicating with different people ... We want to put an end to the chaotic situation in Hong Kong," Lam said, adding she did not believe her government had lost control.

More demonstrations are planned over coming days and weeks, posing a direct challenge to authorities in Beijing, who are eager to quell the unrest ahead of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China on Oct. 1.

The unrest escalated in mid-June over a now-suspended extradition bill that would have allowed Hong Kong people to be sent to mainland China for trial in courts controlled by the Communist Party.

But the demonstrations have evolved over 12 straight weeks into a broad demand for greater democracy under the "one country, two systems" formula following the handover to China by colonial ruler Britain in 1997.

Authorities have so far refused to meet any of the protesters' five key demands: withdraw the extradition bill, set up an independent inquiry into the protests and perceived police brutality, stop describing the protests as "rioting", waive charges against those arrested, and resume political reform.

The government said on Monday illegal violence was pushing Hong Kong to the brink of great danger after weekend clashes that included the first gun-shot and the arrest of 86 people, the youngest just 12.

The protests come as Hong Kong is facing its first recession in a decade, with all its growth pillars under significant stress. Rating agencies have raised long-term questions over the quality of the city's governance.

The unrest has sent jitters across the Asian financial centre, prompting some Hong Kong tycoons to start moving personal wealth offshore and residents to look for homes elsewhere.

Jamie Mi, partner at Melbourne-based Kay &amp; Burton, said the real estate agency was receiving about one-third more enquiries from Hong Kong buyers than usual, with most buyers targeting high-end properties priced above $3.4 million.

Juwai.com, China's largest international property website, recorded a 50% increase in Hong Kong enquiries for Australian properties in the past quarter.

Violence in Hong Kong's anti-government protests is becoming more serious but the government is confident it can handle the crisis itself, the city's embattled leader said on Tuesday.

Violence in Hong Kong's anti-government protests is becoming more serious but the government is confident it can handle the crisis itself, the city's embattled leader said on Tuesday. Carrie Lam was speaking in public for the first time since demonstrations escalated on Sunday, when police fired water cannon and volleys of tear gas in running battles with protesters who threw bricks and petrol bombs. The Chinese-ruled city is grappling with its biggest political crisis since its handover to Beijing in 1997 and Communist Party authorities have sent a clear warning that forceful intervention is possible to quell the violence. Hong Kong's Beijing-backed leader said she would not give up on building a platform for dialogue, although the time was not right to set up an independent inquiry into the crisis, one of the cornerstone demands of protesters. "We should prepare for reconciliation in society by communicating with different people ... We want to put an end to the chaotic situation in Hong Kong," Lam said, adding she did not believe her government had lost control. More demonstrations are planned over coming days and weeks, posing a direct challenge to authorities in Beijing, who are eager to quell the unrest ahead of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China on Oct. 1. The unrest escalated in mid-June over a now-suspended extradition bill that would have allowed Hong Kong people to be sent to mainland China for trial in courts controlled by the Communist Party. But the demonstrations have evolved over 12 straight weeks into a broad demand for greater democracy under the "one country, two systems" formula following the handover to China by colonial ruler Britain in 1997. Authorities have so far refused to meet any of the protesters' five key demands: withdraw the extradition bill, set up an independent inquiry into the protests and perceived police brutality, stop describing the protests as "rioting", waive charges against those arrested, and resume political reform. The government said on Monday illegal violence was pushing Hong Kong to the brink of great danger after weekend clashes that included the first gun-shot and the arrest of 86 people, the youngest just 12. The protests come as Hong Kong is facing its first recession in a decade, with all its growth pillars under significant stress. Rating agencies have raised long-term questions over the quality of the city's governance. The unrest has sent jitters across the Asian financial centre, prompting some Hong Kong tycoons to start moving personal wealth offshore and residents to look for homes elsewhere. Jamie Mi, partner at Melbourne-based Kay & Burton, said the real estate agency was receiving about one-third more enquiries from Hong Kong buyers than usual, with most buyers targeting high-end properties priced above $3.4 million. Juwai.com, China's largest international property website, recorded a 50% increase in Hong Kong enquiries for Australian properties in the past quarter.

Hong Kong violence becoming more serious, but government in control: Carrie Lam

Chief Executive of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Carrie Lam has urged rioters to stop illegal violent acts. At a press conference, she said that the region's government will resort to lawful measures to restore social order.

Carrie Lam: Protesters have to give up violence

Thousands of chanting Hong Kong protesters joined hands to form human chains on Friday in a peaceful protest, with almost three months of anti-government demonstrations showing no sign of let-up across the Chinese-ruled territory.

Thousands of chanting Hong Kong protesters joined hands to form human chains on Friday in a peaceful protest, with almost three months of anti-government demonstrations showing no sign of let-up across the Chinese-ruled territory. Demonstrators, families young and old, some people masked, some using hand wipes to stay clean, linked hands across different districts as others held up banners thanking overseas nations for supporting "freedom and democracy" in Hong Kong. Their move echoed one on Aug. 23, 1989, when an estimated 2 million people joined arms across the three Baltic states in a protest against Soviet rule that became known as the "Baltic Way" or "Baltic Chain". "I joined the Hong Kong Way because it’s peaceful," said protester Peter Cheung, 27. "This is the 30th anniversary of the Baltic Way. I hope there will be a bigger chance to make an international noise." Watch: Hong Kong protests continue × The protest, which included dozens shining lights from the top of Kowloon's Lion Rock, visible from the main island of Hong Kong, showed the apparent defiance of Hong Kong people after warnings from Communist Party leaders in Beijing and Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam about violence. Police presence was thin and the protest ended promptly at 9 pm (1300 GMT). But protesters are also planning a "stress test" of the airport this weekend and some, wearing their traditional black garb, were making their way from the nearby suburban town of Tung Chung on Friday night. The protests, triggered by a now-suspended bill that would have allowed extraditions to China, have plunged the former British colony into its worst crisis since its return to China in 1997 and pose a major challenge for Beijing. The unrest has widened into calls for greater freedom, fuelled by worries about the erosion of rights guaranteed under a "one country, two systems" formula, adopted after the 1997 handover, such as an independent judiciary and the right to protest. The airport, reached by a gleaming suspension bridge carrying both rail and road traffic, was forced to close last week when protesters, barricading passageways with luggage trolleys, metal barriers and other objects, clashed with police. China's Hong Kong affairs office condemned the mayhem as "near-terrorist acts". "Go to the airport by different means, including MTR, airport bus, taxi, bike and private car to increase pressure on airport transport," protest organisers wrote online on Friday. The Airport Authority published a half-page notice in newspapers urging young people to "love Hong Kong" and said it opposed acts that blocked the airport, adding that it would keep working to maintain smooth operations. Hong Kong's high court extended an order restricting protests at the airport. Some activists had apologised for last week's airport turmoil. The Canadian consulate said it had suspended travel to mainland China for local staff, just days after a Chinese employee of the city's British consulate was confirmed to have been detained in China. Beijing has said that Simon Cheng, the consulate employee, was detained in the border city of Shenzhen neighbouring Hong Kong. It has accused Britain and other Western countries of meddling in its affairs in Hong Kong. Canada's latest travel advisory on Thursday warned of reports of increased screening of travellers' digital devices at border crossings between mainland China and Hong Kong. 'Hidden aim' Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said Canada’s decision not to allow local staff to visit the mainland was one for Canada, which it respected. If people came to China and followed the law, they would have no problems, he told a daily news briefing. "But if you have a hidden aim, and are hatching a sinister plot, then I fear in China you need to be in a state of apprehension and extra careful." The Foreign Correspondents’ Club of China said it had received multiple reports of Chinese border officials detaining journalists and searching their digital devices when travelling between the mainland and Hong Kong. The protests are taking a toll on Hong Kong's economy and tourism, with the special administrative region on the cusp of its first recession in a decade. Transport Secretary Frank Chan said airport passenger volume from Aug. 1 to Aug. 21 was down 11% from the same period last year, with cargo volume down 14%. Commerce Secretary Edward Yau said visitor arrivals started to fall in mid-July. For August 15 to Aug. 20, arrivals were down 49.6% on the corresponding 2018 period. "It was the fastest and steepest drop in recent years, and the situation is obviously very worrisome," he told reporters. The protests have caused corporate casualties, most dramatically at the Cathay Pacific airline, amid mounting Chinese scrutiny of the involvement of some of its staff in protests. Cathay confirmed on Friday that Rebecca Sy, the head of Cathay Dragon's Airlines Flight Attendants' Association, was no longer with the company. Her departure follows the shock resignation of Cathay Chief Executive Rupert Hogg last week. Demonstrators have five demands: withdraw the extradition bill, set up an independent inquiry into the protests and perceived police brutality, stop describing the protests as "rioting", waive charges against those arrested, and resume political reform. Beijing has sent a clear warning that forceful intervention is possible, with paramilitary forces holding drills just over the border.

Hong Kong families form peaceful human chains ahead of airport protest

Hundreds of masked protesters used bins and ticket machines as barricades against riot police late Wednesday at a flashpoint Hong Kong metro station, where they earlier marked one month since a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protests-spread-to-subway-as-bank-warns-of-economic-fallout-244585">mob attack by suspected triad</a> gang members.

That assault on July 21 had pushed the city deeper into political violence, but the sit-in on Wednesday was largely peaceful until police vans arrived at the Yuen Long station close to the Chinese border and the atmosphere soured.

Some <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-consulate-employee-in-hong-kong-being-held-in-china-foreign-ministry-244603">protesters put on hard hats</a> and gas masks, while others sprayed fire extinguishers and poured detergent, beer and oil on the concourse to impede entry by the police who had massed outside.

The demonstration was convened to mark a month since a gang wearing white T-shirts and armed with poles and sticks set upon anti-government protesters -&nbsp;unarmed and dressed in black -&nbsp;at the metro station.&nbsp;

The attack left nearly 50 people -&nbsp;including passers-by -&nbsp;in hospital, some with horrific wounds.

Hong Kong's police were heavily criticised for being slow to respond, fuelling rumours of collusion.

Police denied any links to the attack, but trust in the force -&nbsp;which was already facing an unprecedented challenge on the streets -- has since sunk to a nadir.&nbsp;

"People are here to tell the government that we are angry and we think that we need a fair judgment on the attackers," 23-year-old tutor Chloe told AFP, giving one name like many of the demonstrators.

Hong Kong's political crisis was spurred by an attempt to bundle through a bill allowing extradition to China through parliament.

But protests have billowed out into a wider pro-democracy movement, which has seen the financial centre's airport closed, violent street clashes with police and million-strong peaceful marches through city streets.

It is unclear in which direction the protests, which are leaderless and organised on social media, are heading after nearly three months of draining street action. &nbsp;

The city has enjoyed several peaceful protests recently -- &nbsp;without police baton charges, tear gas or protesters hurling rocks.&nbsp;

Hong Kong's government has so far refused to buck to any of their demands, including scrapping the extradition bill completely, the resignation of city leader Carrie Lam and a full independent inquiry into police actions during the protests.

But they say they are digging in for the long haul.

"Although we are so tired, we know that the momentum for the protests is still there," said a sit-in participant who identified himself only as Leung.

Hong Kong police on Tuesday said they had arrested 28 people over the July 21 incident.

Yuen Long is in Hong Kong's New Territories, a rural area where many of the surrounding villages are known for triad connections and their staunch support for the pro-Beijing establishment.

Hundreds of masked protesters used bins and ticket machines as barricades against riot police late Wednesday at a flashpoint Hong Kong metro station, where they earlier marked one month since a mob attack by suspected triad gang members.

Hundreds of masked protesters used bins and ticket machines as barricades against riot police late Wednesday at a flashpoint Hong Kong metro station, where they earlier marked one month since a mob attack by suspected triad gang members. That assault on July 21 had pushed the city deeper into political violence, but the sit-in on Wednesday was largely peaceful until police vans arrived at the Yuen Long station close to the Chinese border and the atmosphere soured. Some protesters put on hard hats and gas masks, while others sprayed fire extinguishers and poured detergent, beer and oil on the concourse to impede entry by the police who had massed outside. The demonstration was convened to mark a month since a gang wearing white T-shirts and armed with poles and sticks set upon anti-government protesters - unarmed and dressed in black - at the metro station. The attack left nearly 50 people - including passers-by - in hospital, some with horrific wounds. Hong Kong's police were heavily criticised for being slow to respond, fuelling rumours of collusion. Police denied any links to the attack, but trust in the force - which was already facing an unprecedented challenge on the streets -- has since sunk to a nadir. "People are here to tell the government that we are angry and we think that we need a fair judgment on the attackers," 23-year-old tutor Chloe told AFP, giving one name like many of the demonstrators. Hong Kong's political crisis was spurred by an attempt to bundle through a bill allowing extradition to China through parliament. But protests have billowed out into a wider pro-democracy movement, which has seen the financial centre's airport closed, violent street clashes with police and million-strong peaceful marches through city streets. It is unclear in which direction the protests, which are leaderless and organised on social media, are heading after nearly three months of draining street action. The city has enjoyed several peaceful protests recently -- without police baton charges, tear gas or protesters hurling rocks. Hong Kong's government has so far refused to buck to any of their demands, including scrapping the extradition bill completely, the resignation of city leader Carrie Lam and a full independent inquiry into police actions during the protests. But they say they are digging in for the long haul. "Although we are so tired, we know that the momentum for the protests is still there," said a sit-in participant who identified himself only as Leung. Hong Kong police on Tuesday said they had arrested 28 people over the July 21 incident. Yuen Long is in Hong Kong's New Territories, a rural area where many of the surrounding villages are known for triad connections and their staunch support for the pro-Beijing establishment.

Masked protesters mark 'triad' attack at Hong Kong metro station

An employee of Britain's consulate in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protests-spread-to-subway-as-bank-warns-of-economic-fallout-244585">Hong Kong</a> who went missing earlier this month is being held in China, Beijing confirmed Wednesday.

The incident comes as relations between Britain and China have become strained over what Beijing calls London's "interference" in pro-democracy protests that have wracked Hong Kong for three months.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a regular press briefing the detained man had been "placed in administrative detention for 15 days as punishment" by Shenzhen police for breaking a public security law.

Geng said the employee was from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-cries-foul-over-facebook-the-twitter-block-of-fake-accounts-244383">Hong Kong</a> and therefore the issue was an internal matter.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinas-attempt-to-discredit-hong-kong-protests-busted-244569/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

"Let me clarify, this employee is a Hong Kong citizen, he's not a UK citizen, which is also saying he's a Chinese person," Geng said.

The man, named by his family as Simon Cheng, travelled to Shenzhen, a megacity on the China-Hong Kong border, for a one-day business meeting on August 8.

That night, Cheng returned via high-speed train and sent messages to his girlfriend as he was about to go through customs.

"We lost contact with him since then," the family said in a Facebook post.

Geng said the employee had violated the Public Security Administration Punishments Law -- a law with broad scope aimed at "maintaining public order in society" and "safeguarding public security", as well as making sure police and security forces act within the law.

The ongoing protests have raised fears of a Chinese crackdown.

The unrest was initially triggered by a controversial law that would allow extradition to the mainland, but has since broadened into a call for wider democratic reforms.

Beijing has repeatedly warned Britain -- the former colonial ruler of Hong Kong -- against any "interference" in the protests, which erupted 11 weeks ago and have seen millions of people hit the streets calling for democratic reforms.

"Recently the UK has made many erroneous remarks about Hong Kong," Geng said at the press briefing Wednesday.&nbsp;

"We once again urge the British side to stop gesticulating and fanning flames on the Hong Kong issue."

With Beijing attempting to shape the narrative of the unrest in Hong Kong, Chinese authorities have increased their inspections at the Shenzhen border, including checking the phones and devices of some passengers for photos of the protests.&nbsp;

The mainland metropolis of Shenzhen sits behind China's "Great Firewall" - which restricts access to news and information -&nbsp;while Hong Kong enjoys liberties unseen on the mainland.

China &nbsp;promised to respect the freedoms in the semi-autonomous territory after its handover from Britain in 1997, including freedom of speech, unfettered access to the internet and an independent judiciary. 
&nbsp;

An employee of Britain's consulate in Hong Kong who went missing earlier this month is being held in China, Beijing confirmed Wednesday. The incident comes as relations between Britain and China have become strained over what Beijing calls London's "interference" in pro-democracy protests that have wracked Hong Kong for three months.

An employee of Britain's consulate in Hong Kong who went missing earlier this month is being held in China, Beijing confirmed Wednesday. The incident comes as relations between Britain and China have become strained over what Beijing calls London's "interference" in pro-democracy protests that have wracked Hong Kong for three months. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a regular press briefing the detained man had been "placed in administrative detention for 15 days as punishment" by Shenzhen police for breaking a public security law. Geng said the employee was from Hong Kong and therefore the issue was an internal matter. "Let me clarify, this employee is a Hong Kong citizen, he's not a UK citizen, which is also saying he's a Chinese person," Geng said. The man, named by his family as Simon Cheng, travelled to Shenzhen, a megacity on the China-Hong Kong border, for a one-day business meeting on August 8. That night, Cheng returned via high-speed train and sent messages to his girlfriend as he was about to go through customs. "We lost contact with him since then," the family said in a Facebook post. Geng said the employee had violated the Public Security Administration Punishments Law -- a law with broad scope aimed at "maintaining public order in society" and "safeguarding public security", as well as making sure police and security forces act within the law. The ongoing protests have raised fears of a Chinese crackdown. The unrest was initially triggered by a controversial law that would allow extradition to the mainland, but has since broadened into a call for wider democratic reforms. Beijing has repeatedly warned Britain -- the former colonial ruler of Hong Kong -- against any "interference" in the protests, which erupted 11 weeks ago and have seen millions of people hit the streets calling for democratic reforms. "Recently the UK has made many erroneous remarks about Hong Kong," Geng said at the press briefing Wednesday. "We once again urge the British side to stop gesticulating and fanning flames on the Hong Kong issue." With Beijing attempting to shape the narrative of the unrest in Hong Kong, Chinese authorities have increased their inspections at the Shenzhen border, including checking the phones and devices of some passengers for photos of the protests. The mainland metropolis of Shenzhen sits behind China's "Great Firewall" - which restricts access to news and information - while Hong Kong enjoys liberties unseen on the mainland. China promised to respect the freedoms in the semi-autonomous territory after its handover from Britain in 1997, including freedom of speech, unfettered access to the internet and an independent judiciary.

UK consulate employee in Hong Kong being held in China: Foreign ministry

Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday said she hoped "calm" will prevail after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-facebook-dismantle-social-media-campaign-in-china-that-tried-to-undermine-hong-kong-protests-244261">massive weekend march</a> passed without clashes between police and demonstrators, but again refused to give ground to protester demands.&nbsp;

Hundreds of thousands of people marched through the heart of the city on Sunday in a show of peaceful protest after escalating street battles with police drew stark warnings from Beijing and threatened to undermine public support.

"On Sunday, many Hong Kong residents participated in a rally at Victoria Park that was largely peaceful," Chief Executive Carrie Lam said at a televised press conference.&nbsp;

"I wholeheartedly hope that this is the beginning of society returning to calm and staying away from violence."&nbsp;

The protests began against a proposed extradition law to China but morphed into a pro-democracy movement sparking the city's biggest political crisis in decades.

They have been fuelled by anger over alleged police brutality, with tear gas and rubber bullets deployed against protesters.&nbsp;

Lam reported 174 complaints have been made against police since protests began.

She said they would be "robustly" investigated by the Independent Police Complaints Council, whose head is appointed by the chief executive.

However, the probe is unlikely to satisfy protesters who have called for an independent inquiry by an external body.&nbsp;

In addition to universal suffrage and cancelling the extradition bill, protesters also demand the release of those detained during clashes.

Lam, pilloried by press and protesters for failing to step down while the city plunges into crisis, said her government would continue a "fact-finding mission" on how to move forward from the demonstrations.&nbsp;

She took a softer tone than in recent weeks, but again refused to formally withdraw the contentious extradition bill, repeating only that: "The bill is dead. There's no plan to revive this bill."

The chaos has caused mounting concerns for business and investment in Hong Kong, with the effects of the trouble particularly impacting the tourism industry.&nbsp;

"One of its most important strengths is the rule of law," Lam said of the financial hub.&nbsp;

"That's why we have been doing so much to ensure that the rule of law is being upheld and respected in Hong Kong."

Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday said she hoped "calm" will prevail after a massive weekend march passed without clashes between police and demonstrators, but again refused to give ground to protester demands.

Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday said she hoped "calm" will prevail after a massive weekend march passed without clashes between police and demonstrators, but again refused to give ground to protester demands. Hundreds of thousands of people marched through the heart of the city on Sunday in a show of peaceful protest after escalating street battles with police drew stark warnings from Beijing and threatened to undermine public support. "On Sunday, many Hong Kong residents participated in a rally at Victoria Park that was largely peaceful," Chief Executive Carrie Lam said at a televised press conference. "I wholeheartedly hope that this is the beginning of society returning to calm and staying away from violence." The protests began against a proposed extradition law to China but morphed into a pro-democracy movement sparking the city's biggest political crisis in decades. They have been fuelled by anger over alleged police brutality, with tear gas and rubber bullets deployed against protesters. Lam reported 174 complaints have been made against police since protests began. She said they would be "robustly" investigated by the Independent Police Complaints Council, whose head is appointed by the chief executive. However, the probe is unlikely to satisfy protesters who have called for an independent inquiry by an external body. In addition to universal suffrage and cancelling the extradition bill, protesters also demand the release of those detained during clashes. Lam, pilloried by press and protesters for failing to step down while the city plunges into crisis, said her government would continue a "fact-finding mission" on how to move forward from the demonstrations. She took a softer tone than in recent weeks, but again refused to formally withdraw the contentious extradition bill, repeating only that: "The bill is dead. There's no plan to revive this bill." The chaos has caused mounting concerns for business and investment in Hong Kong, with the effects of the trouble particularly impacting the tourism industry. "One of its most important strengths is the rule of law," Lam said of the financial hub. "That's why we have been doing so much to ensure that the rule of law is being upheld and respected in Hong Kong."

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam hopes peaceful rally presages 'return to calm'

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday (August 20) that the government would talk to peaceful protesters and tackle complaints against police. Hundreds of thousands of protesters rallied peacefully in the Chinese-ruled city in torrential rain on Sunday (August 18) in the eleventh week of what have been often violent demonstrations.

Carrie Lam: Government will speak to peaceful protesters

After US President Trump warned that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiananmen-square-style-crackdown-in-hong-kong-would-harm-trade-deal-with-china-donald-trump-243953">China's crackdown on pro-democracy</a> protesters may harm trade talks between the two countries, China's foreign affairs spokesman said Hong Kong doesn't need "suggestions".

"We have noted this. President Trump has previously said that Hong Kong is part of China and they must solve their problem by themselves. They don't need any suggestions," foreign affairs spokesman Geng Shuang said.

"We hope the US side can live up their word," Shuang added.

Hong Kong has been engulfed by protests for the past eleven weeks with citizens demanding China should drop the extradition bill&nbsp;altogether&nbsp;after it was taken off the table in the country's legislature, the pro-democracy protesters have also turned the heat on their leader Carrie Lam demanding her resignation with several protests triggering violent reactions.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-protests-protesters-attempt-to-restore-peace-244019/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

On Sunday, in a silent protest which was largely "tear-gas free" nearly 1.7 million citizens turned up at the city's Victoria Park after three days of protests once again kept authorities on alert.

As the protests gathered momentum, President Trump waded into the debate, declaring: "I think it'd be very hard to deal if they do violence, I mean, if it's another Tiananmen Square," adding," I think it's a very hard thing to do if there's violence." Trump signalled that trade negotiations could be hampered if China dwelt with protesters with a heavy hand.

China had infamously deployed tanks during the Tiananmen Square crackdown in 1989 which led to escalation of violence leading the deaths of several hundred protesters as the Chinese Communist Party sought to quell the student-led protests.

"If such a situation was repeated in Hong Kong, I think there'd be... tremendous political sentiment not to do something," Trump said, referring to the trade negotiations with China. &nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

After US President Trump warned that China's crackdown on pro-democracy protesters may harm trade talks between the two countries, China's foreign affairs spokesman said Hong Kong doesn't need "suggestions".

After US President Trump warned that China's crackdown on pro-democracy protesters may harm trade talks between the two countries, China's foreign affairs spokesman said Hong Kong doesn't need "suggestions". "We have noted this. President Trump has previously said that Hong Kong is part of China and they must solve their problem by themselves. They don't need any suggestions," foreign affairs spokesman Geng Shuang said. "We hope the US side can live up their word," Shuang added. Hong Kong has been engulfed by protests for the past eleven weeks with citizens demanding China should drop the extradition bill altogether after it was taken off the table in the country's legislature, the pro-democracy protesters have also turned the heat on their leader Carrie Lam demanding her resignation with several protests triggering violent reactions. Watch Video: On Sunday, in a silent protest which was largely "tear-gas free" nearly 1.7 million citizens turned up at the city's Victoria Park after three days of protests once again kept authorities on alert. As the protests gathered momentum, President Trump waded into the debate, declaring: "I think it'd be very hard to deal if they do violence, I mean, if it's another Tiananmen Square," adding," I think it's a very hard thing to do if there's violence." Trump signalled that trade negotiations could be hampered if China dwelt with protesters with a heavy hand. China had infamously deployed tanks during the Tiananmen Square crackdown in 1989 which led to escalation of violence leading the deaths of several hundred protesters as the Chinese Communist Party sought to quell the student-led protests. "If such a situation was repeated in Hong Kong, I think there'd be... tremendous political sentiment not to do something," Trump said, referring to the trade negotiations with China.

Hong Kong doesn't need 'suggestions', says China after Trump's Tiananmen comment

Hundreds of Hong Kong teachers and supporters on Saturday braved heavy downpour as they took to the streets to begin yet another weekend of anti-government protests in the former British colony. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong: Hundreds take part in teachers' rally braving downpour

After gathering peacefully in the Central business district, they marched on the Government House residence of Hong Kong’s embattled leader Carrie Lam.

Teachers joins protests in Hong Kong

Teachers joins protests in Hong Kong, more than 22,000 joins rally

China will not "sit by and watch" and is ready to "quell the unrest swiftly" if the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-china-should-treat-hong-kong-humanely-before-trade-deal-can-be-agreed-243136">crisis in Hong Kong</a> becomes "uncontrollable", China's ambassador to London said on Thursday.

"If the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-urge-china-to-adhere-to-sino-british-joint-declaration-on-hong-kong-us-state-department-243027">situation deteriorates further into unrest</a> uncontrollable by the SAR (Special Administrative Region) government, then the central government will not sit by and watch," Liu Xiaoming said in a televised press conference.

"We have enough solutions and enough power to quell the unrest swiftly," he said.

Images taken by AFP earlier on Thursday showed thousands of Chinese military personnel waving red flags and parading at a sports stadium in the city of Shenzhen, just across the border from Hong Kong.

Dozens of armoured personnel carriers and supply trucks were also parked nearby.

"We hope this will end in an orderly way. In the meantime we are fully prepared for the worst," Liu said.

Watch: UK condemns violence in Hong Kong

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-uk-condemns-violence-in-hong-kong-243016/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He also protested against "foreign interference" in the Hong Kong protests and urged British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government to handle the issue with "great caution".

"I think some politicians in this country... still regard Hong Kong as part of the British empire," he said.

The Hong Kong protests were sparked by opposition to a plan to allow extraditions to the mainland, but have since morphed into a wider -- sometimes violent -- call for democratic rights.

The movement represents the greatest challenge to Beijing's authority since the city was handed back by the British in 1997 under a deal that allowed it to keep freedoms that many Hong Kongers feel are being eroded.

China earlier this month warned Britain to stop "meddling" after Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab called Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam and emphasised the need for a "fully independent investigation into recent events".&nbsp;

China will not "sit by and watch" and is ready to "quell the unrest swiftly" if the crisis in Hong Kong becomes "uncontrollable", China's ambassador to London said on Thursday.

China will not "sit by and watch" and is ready to "quell the unrest swiftly" if the crisis in Hong Kong becomes "uncontrollable", China's ambassador to London said on Thursday. "If the situation deteriorates further into unrest uncontrollable by the SAR (Special Administrative Region) government, then the central government will not sit by and watch," Liu Xiaoming said in a televised press conference. "We have enough solutions and enough power to quell the unrest swiftly," he said. Images taken by AFP earlier on Thursday showed thousands of Chinese military personnel waving red flags and parading at a sports stadium in the city of Shenzhen, just across the border from Hong Kong. Dozens of armoured personnel carriers and supply trucks were also parked nearby. "We hope this will end in an orderly way. In the meantime we are fully prepared for the worst," Liu said. Watch: UK condemns violence in Hong Kong × He also protested against "foreign interference" in the Hong Kong protests and urged British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government to handle the issue with "great caution". "I think some politicians in this country... still regard Hong Kong as part of the British empire," he said. The Hong Kong protests were sparked by opposition to a plan to allow extraditions to the mainland, but have since morphed into a wider -- sometimes violent -- call for democratic rights. The movement represents the greatest challenge to Beijing's authority since the city was handed back by the British in 1997 under a deal that allowed it to keep freedoms that many Hong Kongers feel are being eroded. China earlier this month warned Britain to stop "meddling" after Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab called Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam and emphasised the need for a "fully independent investigation into recent events".

China 'will not sit by' if Hong Kong crisis worsens, says Chinese envoy to UK

The United States said Wednesday that it was concerned about movements of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intelligence-has-informed-china-moving-troops-to-hong-kong-border-trump-242841">Chinese forces on the border</a> with Hong Kong and urged Beijing to honour the territory's autonomy as pro-democracy protests continued.

A day after President Donald Trump appeared to take a hands-off position on the protests, a State Department spokesperson voiced concerns about the "continued erosion" of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-silence-to-terrorism-beijings-evolving-rhetoric-on-hong-kong-242926">Hong Kong's autonomy</a> and expressed "staunch" support for freedom of expression and peaceful assembly in the territory.

"The United States is deeply concerned by reports of Chinese paramilitary movement along the Hong Kong border," the spokesperson, who would not be named, told AFP in a statement.

"The United States strongly urges Beijing to adhere to its commitments in the Sino-British Joint Declaration to allow Hong Kong to exercise a high degree of autonomy."

Watch Video:
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-protests-hope-nobody-gets-killed-says-donald-trump-242992/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

The spokesperson said the protests, which forced the partial closure of Hong Kong's international airport on Tuesday, reflect "broad and legitimate concerns" among Hong Kong's citizenry over the loss of autonomy, which was agreed in the deal between London and Beijing over returning the former British colony to China in 1997.

"We condemn violence and urge all sides to exercise restraint, but remain staunch in our support for freedom of expression and freedom of peaceful assembly in Hong Kong," the US official said.

"We categorically reject the false charge of foreign forces as the black hand behind the protests," the official added.

Trump, who is locked in a tense showdown with Beijing over trade relations, said Tuesday that US intelligence had reported that the Chinese government "is moving troops" to the Hong Kong border.

He called the situation "very tricky," adding: &nbsp;"I hope it works out for everybody including China. I hope it works out peacefully, nobody gets hurt, nobody gets killed."

The United States said Wednesday that it was concerned about movements of Chinese forces on the border with Hong Kong and urged Beijing to honour the territory's autonomy as pro-democracy protests continued.

The United States said Wednesday that it was concerned about movements of Chinese forces on the border with Hong Kong and urged Beijing to honour the territory's autonomy as pro-democracy protests continued. A day after President Donald Trump appeared to take a hands-off position on the protests, a State Department spokesperson voiced concerns about the "continued erosion" of Hong Kong's autonomy and expressed "staunch" support for freedom of expression and peaceful assembly in the territory. "The United States is deeply concerned by reports of Chinese paramilitary movement along the Hong Kong border," the spokesperson, who would not be named, told AFP in a statement. "The United States strongly urges Beijing to adhere to its commitments in the Sino-British Joint Declaration to allow Hong Kong to exercise a high degree of autonomy." Watch Video: The spokesperson said the protests, which forced the partial closure of Hong Kong's international airport on Tuesday, reflect "broad and legitimate concerns" among Hong Kong's citizenry over the loss of autonomy, which was agreed in the deal between London and Beijing over returning the former British colony to China in 1997. "We condemn violence and urge all sides to exercise restraint, but remain staunch in our support for freedom of expression and freedom of peaceful assembly in Hong Kong," the US official said. "We categorically reject the false charge of foreign forces as the black hand behind the protests," the official added. Trump, who is locked in a tense showdown with Beijing over trade relations, said Tuesday that US intelligence had reported that the Chinese government "is moving troops" to the Hong Kong border. He called the situation "very tricky," adding: "I hope it works out for everybody including China. I hope it works out peacefully, nobody gets hurt, nobody gets killed."

We urge China to adhere to Sino-British Joint Declaration on Hong Kong: US State Department

Cathay Pacific on Wednesday said two pilots had been sacked, as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-state-media-urge-action-voice-support-for-hong-kong-police-after-overnight-clashes-242898">Hong Kong carrier comes</a> under huge pressure from Beijing to clamp down on staff supportive of anti-government rallies.

"Cathay Pacific confirms that two pilots have been terminated in accordance with the terms and conditions of their employment contracts," the airline said in a statement.

"One is currently involved in legal proceedings. The other misused company information on Flight CX216/12 August."

Cathay Pacific has flown into a storm of controversy generated by the Hong Kong protests that has left it trying to appease an angry Beijing while not alienating its home market.

Watch:
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-tourists-scared-as-flights-disrupted-for-second-day-running-242945/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>


Over the past week the airline has emerged as a target on the mainland after some of its 27,000-strong workforce took part in, or voiced support for, the protests.

China's aviation regulator demanded that the airline prevent such staff from working on flights to the mainland or those routed through Chinese airspace.

It also ordered the carrier to hand over identity information for employees on mainland-bound flights -- declaring unapproved flights would not be allowed in.

Executives scrambled to reassure authorities that the company has no truck with the demonstrators, vowing to sack any employee who takes part in an "illegal protest".&nbsp;

Swire Pacific -- a Hong Kong-based conglomerate and Cathay's largest shareholder -- released a statement saying it "strongly supports" the Hong Kong government and "(shares) the vision of the Chinese Central government".

"We resolutely support the Hong Kong SAR Government, the Chief Executive and the Police in their efforts to restore law and order," the company said, adding that it would comply with any regulations Beijing placed on it.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Cathay Pacific on Wednesday said two pilots had been sacked, as the Hong Kong carrier comes under huge pressure from Beijing to clamp down on staff supportive of anti-government rallies.

Cathay Pacific on Wednesday said two pilots had been sacked, as the Hong Kong carrier comes under huge pressure from Beijing to clamp down on staff supportive of anti-government rallies. "Cathay Pacific confirms that two pilots have been terminated in accordance with the terms and conditions of their employment contracts," the airline said in a statement. "One is currently involved in legal proceedings. The other misused company information on Flight CX216/12 August." Cathay Pacific has flown into a storm of controversy generated by the Hong Kong protests that has left it trying to appease an angry Beijing while not alienating its home market. Watch: Over the past week the airline has emerged as a target on the mainland after some of its 27,000-strong workforce took part in, or voiced support for, the protests. China's aviation regulator demanded that the airline prevent such staff from working on flights to the mainland or those routed through Chinese airspace. It also ordered the carrier to hand over identity information for employees on mainland-bound flights -- declaring unapproved flights would not be allowed in. Executives scrambled to reassure authorities that the company has no truck with the demonstrators, vowing to sack any employee who takes part in an "illegal protest". Swire Pacific -- a Hong Kong-based conglomerate and Cathay's largest shareholder -- released a statement saying it "strongly supports" the Hong Kong government and "(shares) the vision of the Chinese Central government". "We resolutely support the Hong Kong SAR Government, the Chief Executive and the Police in their efforts to restore law and order," the company said, adding that it would comply with any regulations Beijing placed on it.

Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific sacks two pilots amid protests

President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-hope-it-works-out-peacefully-nobody-gets-hurt-nobody-gets-killed-trump-on-hong-kong-protests-242836">Donald Trump in a tweet</a> said that US intelligence had informed him that the Chinese government was moving troops to the border with Hong Kong.

"Many are blaming me, and the United States, for the problems going on in Hong Kong. I can’t imagine why?, the US president said in a tweet, adding,"Everyone should be calm and safe!"

Earlier, Trump had said that that it was a "very tricky situation" <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/clashes-erupt-between-riot-police-protesters-outside-hong-kong-airport-242832">in Hong Kong</a> and hoped that it ends peacefully.

"I hope it works out peacefully, nobody gets hurt, nobody gets killed," the president told reporters in New Jersey.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Our Intelligence has informed us that the Chinese Government is moving troops to the Border with Hong Kong. Everyone should be calm and safe!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1161325870516264961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-erin-hale-correspondent-on-protest-in-hong-kong-airport-242805/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Trump's comments come even as violent clashes erupted outside Hong Kong airport on Tuesday evening as riot police tried to disperse protesters as authorities suspended check-ins at the international airport.

Reports said police used pepper spray in scuffles with protesters at Hong Kong airport. At least two protesters were detained, reports said.

Several police vehicles were blocked by protesters, and riot police moved in, pushing some protesters back and using pepper spray at times.

The airport authority said in a statement that a public assembly had blocked passageways to the airport's restricted area, blocking passengers from proceeding to immigration.

In the second day of unrest at the airport, thousands of black-clad protesters jammed the terminal, chanting, singing and waving banners.

Scuffles broke out after an injured person was taken out of the main terminal by medics after he was held by a group of protesters. Some activists claimed he was an undercover mainland Chinese police officer.

Protesters also barricaded some passageways in the airport with luggage trolleys, metal barriers and other objects. At least two protesters were taken away by police.

The situation calmed down after a few hours without the violence worsening.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

President Donald Trump in a tweet said that US intelligence had informed him that the Chinese government was moving troops to the border with Hong Kong. "Many are blaming me, and the United States, for the problems going on in Hong Kong.

President Donald Trump in a tweet said that US intelligence had informed him that the Chinese government was moving troops to the border with Hong Kong. "Many are blaming me, and the United States, for the problems going on in Hong Kong. I can’t imagine why?, the US president said in a tweet, adding,"Everyone should be calm and safe!" Earlier, Trump had said that that it was a "very tricky situation" in Hong Kong and hoped that it ends peacefully. "I hope it works out peacefully, nobody gets hurt, nobody gets killed," the president told reporters in New Jersey. Our Intelligence has informed us that the Chinese Government is moving troops to the Border with Hong Kong. Everyone should be calm and safe! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 13, 2019 × Watch Video: Trump's comments come even as violent clashes erupted outside Hong Kong airport on Tuesday evening as riot police tried to disperse protesters as authorities suspended check-ins at the international airport. Reports said police used pepper spray in scuffles with protesters at Hong Kong airport. At least two protesters were detained, reports said. Several police vehicles were blocked by protesters, and riot police moved in, pushing some protesters back and using pepper spray at times. The airport authority said in a statement that a public assembly had blocked passageways to the airport's restricted area, blocking passengers from proceeding to immigration. In the second day of unrest at the airport, thousands of black-clad protesters jammed the terminal, chanting, singing and waving banners. Scuffles broke out after an injured person was taken out of the main terminal by medics after he was held by a group of protesters. Some activists claimed he was an undercover mainland Chinese police officer. Protesters also barricaded some passageways in the airport with luggage trolleys, metal barriers and other objects. At least two protesters were taken away by police. The situation calmed down after a few hours without the violence worsening.

US intelligence has informed China moving troops to Hong Kong border: Trump

US President Donald Trump said Tuesday he hoped no one would be killed in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/clashes-erupt-between-riot-police-protesters-outside-hong-kong-airport-242832">Hong Kong amid</a> new protests capping 10 weeks of unrest in the semi-autonomous southern Chinese financial hub.

The crisis, which has seen millions of anti-government activists take to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-check-ins-suspended-at-hong-kong-airport-as-protests-escalate-242706"> Hong Kong's</a> streets, was a "very tricky situation," the president told reporters in New Jersey.&nbsp;

"I hope it works out peacefully, nobody gets hurt, nobody gets killed," he said.

Trump's comments come even as violent clashes erupted outside Hong Kong airport on Tuesday evening as riot police tried to disperse protesters as authorities suspended check-ins at the international airport.

Reports said police used pepper spray in scuffles with protesters at Hong Kong airport. At least two protesters were detained, reports said.

Several police vehicles were blocked by protesters, and riot police moved in, pushing some protesters back and using pepper spray at times.

The airport authority said in a statement that a public assembly had blocked passageways to the airport's restricted area, blocking passengers from proceeding to immigration.

US President Donald Trump said Tuesday he hoped no one would be killed in Hong Kong amid new protests capping 10 weeks of unrest in the semi-autonomous southern Chinese financial hub.

US President Donald Trump said Tuesday he hoped no one would be killed in Hong Kong amid new protests capping 10 weeks of unrest in the semi-autonomous southern Chinese financial hub. The crisis, which has seen millions of anti-government activists take to Hong Kong's streets, was a "very tricky situation," the president told reporters in New Jersey. "I hope it works out peacefully, nobody gets hurt, nobody gets killed," he said. Trump's comments come even as violent clashes erupted outside Hong Kong airport on Tuesday evening as riot police tried to disperse protesters as authorities suspended check-ins at the international airport. Reports said police used pepper spray in scuffles with protesters at Hong Kong airport. At least two protesters were detained, reports said. Several police vehicles were blocked by protesters, and riot police moved in, pushing some protesters back and using pepper spray at times. The airport authority said in a statement that a public assembly had blocked passageways to the airport's restricted area, blocking passengers from proceeding to immigration.

I hope it works out peacefully, nobody gets hurt, nobody gets killed: Trump on Hong Kong protests

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday that "l<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protest-us-urges-all-sides-to-refrain-from-violence-flight-operations-resume-after-unprecedented-closure-242560">awbreaking activities in the name of freedom</a>" were damaging the rule of law and that the Asian financial hub's recovery from anti-government protests could take a long time. While speaking in a press conference, Lam also defended the city's police after a weekend of violent protests&nbsp;confrontations between them and protesters.

"Violence, no matter if it's using violence or condoning violence, will push Hong Kong down a path of no return, will plunge Hong Kong society into a very worrying and dangerous situation," Lam said during a press conference.

"The situation in Hong Kong in the past week has made me very worried that we have reached this dangerous situation," she added.

She said police faced "extremely difficult circumstances" and were bound by "rigid and stringent guidelines on the appropriate use of force".

During the press conference, Lam faced combative questioning from reporters. She also tried to didged a question on whether she had the autonomy to fully withdraw the now-suspended extradition bill without Beijing's approval and to grant&nbsp;

Pressed on whether her hands were tied by Beijing on the issue, she demurred, insisting the question had been answered in the past.

"I again ask everyone to put aside your differences and calm down."

"Take a minute to think, look at our city, our home, do you all really want to see it pushed into an abyss?" Lam added, appearing on the verge of tears.

Her comments come after China said the anti-government protests that have swept the city over the past two months had begun to show <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-hong-kong-violence-as-terrorism-airport-cancels-all-flight-operations-due-to-protests-242394">"sprouts of terrorism"</a>.

Over the weekend, thousands of pro-democracy protesters defied warnings from authorities to hit the streets for the 10th weekend in a row during which the demonstrator threw petrol bombs at police officers.

While Hong Kong police fired tear gas on shopping streets and in subway stations, with protesters hurling bricks and spraying riot police with fire extinguishers and water hoses.

A government official said 45 people were injured in the clashes, including two who were in serious condition.&nbsp;

Police also arrested protesters across the city, with activists claiming plainclothes officers dressed in the movement's signature black and infiltrated their ranks to detain demonstrators.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-admit-disguising-themselves-in-protest-defend-action-242565">Hong Kong police on Monday admitted to using undercover officers </a>"disguised" as protestors during the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-hong-kong-violence-as-terrorism-airport-cancels-all-flight-operations-due-to-protests-242394">pro-democracy protests</a>&nbsp;over the weekend.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I can say that during the time when our police officers were disguised, firstly they would not provoke anything, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Tang Ping-Keung said in a press conference.

"We won't ask them to stir up trouble, and we won't ask them to conduct illegal act," he added.

The two-month crisis, which was triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law, has morphed into a wider movement for democratic reform and a halt to eroding freedoms.

It is the biggest threat to Beijing's rule of the semi-autonomous southern Chinese city since its handover from Britain in 1997 -- and has drawn repeated criticism but no forceful actions yet from the central Chinese government.

(With inpust from agencies)

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday that "lawbreaking activities in the name of freedom" were damaging the rule of law and that the Asian financial hub's recovery from anti-government protests could take a long time.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday that "lawbreaking activities in the name of freedom" were damaging the rule of law and that the Asian financial hub's recovery from anti-government protests could take a long time. While speaking in a press conference, Lam also defended the city's police after a weekend of violent protests confrontations between them and protesters. "Violence, no matter if it's using violence or condoning violence, will push Hong Kong down a path of no return, will plunge Hong Kong society into a very worrying and dangerous situation," Lam said during a press conference. "The situation in Hong Kong in the past week has made me very worried that we have reached this dangerous situation," she added. She said police faced "extremely difficult circumstances" and were bound by "rigid and stringent guidelines on the appropriate use of force". During the press conference, Lam faced combative questioning from reporters. She also tried to didged a question on whether she had the autonomy to fully withdraw the now-suspended extradition bill without Beijing's approval and to grant Pressed on whether her hands were tied by Beijing on the issue, she demurred, insisting the question had been answered in the past. "I again ask everyone to put aside your differences and calm down." "Take a minute to think, look at our city, our home, do you all really want to see it pushed into an abyss?" Lam added, appearing on the verge of tears. Her comments come after China said the anti-government protests that have swept the city over the past two months had begun to show "sprouts of terrorism". Over the weekend, thousands of pro-democracy protesters defied warnings from authorities to hit the streets for the 10th weekend in a row during which the demonstrator threw petrol bombs at police officers. While Hong Kong police fired tear gas on shopping streets and in subway stations, with protesters hurling bricks and spraying riot police with fire extinguishers and water hoses. A government official said 45 people were injured in the clashes, including two who were in serious condition. Police also arrested protesters across the city, with activists claiming plainclothes officers dressed in the movement's signature black and infiltrated their ranks to detain demonstrators. Meanwhile, Hong Kong police on Monday admitted to using undercover officers "disguised" as protestors during the pro-democracy protests over the weekend. "I can say that during the time when our police officers were disguised, firstly they would not provoke anything, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Tang Ping-Keung said in a press conference. "We won't ask them to stir up trouble, and we won't ask them to conduct illegal act," he added. The two-month crisis, which was triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law, has morphed into a wider movement for democratic reform and a halt to eroding freedoms. It is the biggest threat to Beijing's rule of the semi-autonomous southern Chinese city since its handover from Britain in 1997 -- and has drawn repeated criticism but no forceful actions yet from the central Chinese government. (With inpust from agencies)

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam says rule of law being damaged, city's recovery will take long time

Violent clashes erupted outside Hong Kong airport on Tuesday evening as riot police tried to disperse protesters as authorities <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-check-ins-suspended-at-hong-kong-airport-as-protests-escalate-242706">suspended check-ins</a> at the international airport.

Reports said police used pepper spray in scuffles with protesters at Hong Kong airport. At least two protesters were detained, reports said.

Several police vehicles were blocked by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-rights-chief-calls-for-independent-impartial-investigation-into-hong-kong-violence-242701">protesters, and riot police</a> moved in, pushing some protesters back and using pepper spray at times.

The airport authority said in a statement that a public assembly had blocked passageways to the airport's restricted area, blocking passengers from proceeding to immigration.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-erin-hale-correspondent-on-protest-in-hong-kong-airport-242805/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Hong Kong's airport authority said operations at the city's international airport was being "seriously disrupted" by public assembly.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Earlier on Tuesday, Hong Kong authorities suspended all check-in services as protests escalated inside the airport. In a similar move on Monday, airport authorities had cancelled all flights in Hong Kong airport as anti-government protests entered the fourth day.

Meanwhile, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights urged Hong Kong to exercise restraint and investigate evidence of its forces firing tear gas at protesters in ways banned under international law. 
&nbsp; 
"Take a minute to look at our city, our home," Chief Executive Carrie Lam said, her voice cracking, at a news conference in the government headquarters complex, which is fortified behind 6-foot (1.8-m) -high water-filled barricades.

"Can we bear to push it into the abyss and see it smashed to pieces?"

Violent clashes erupted outside Hong Kong airport on Tuesday evening as riot police tried to disperse protesters as authorities suspended check-ins at the international airport.

Violent clashes erupted outside Hong Kong airport on Tuesday evening as riot police tried to disperse protesters as authorities suspended check-ins at the international airport. Reports said police used pepper spray in scuffles with protesters at Hong Kong airport. At least two protesters were detained, reports said. Several police vehicles were blocked by protesters, and riot police moved in, pushing some protesters back and using pepper spray at times. The airport authority said in a statement that a public assembly had blocked passageways to the airport's restricted area, blocking passengers from proceeding to immigration. Watch Video: Hong Kong's airport authority said operations at the city's international airport was being "seriously disrupted" by public assembly. Earlier on Tuesday, Hong Kong authorities suspended all check-in services as protests escalated inside the airport. In a similar move on Monday, airport authorities had cancelled all flights in Hong Kong airport as anti-government protests entered the fourth day. Meanwhile, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights urged Hong Kong to exercise restraint and investigate evidence of its forces firing tear gas at protesters in ways banned under international law. "Take a minute to look at our city, our home," Chief Executive Carrie Lam said, her voice cracking, at a news conference in the government headquarters complex, which is fortified behind 6-foot (1.8-m) -high water-filled barricades. "Can we bear to push it into the abyss and see it smashed to pieces?"

Clashes erupt between riot police, protesters outside Hong Kong airport

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-advanced-weapons-than-the-failed-russian-skyfall-missile-donald-trump-242558">US has advanced weapons than the 'failed' Russian 'Skyfall' missile: Donald Trump</a>

United States President Donald Trump weighed in on a mysterious explosion in Russia, noting US technology is more advanced to the "failed" weapon.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-leader-says-rule-of-law-being-damaged-citys-recovery-will-take-long-time-242574">Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam says rule of law being damaged, city's recovery will take long time</a>

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday that "lawbreaking activities in the name of freedom" were damaging the rule of law and that the Asian financial hub's recovery from anti-government protests could take a long time.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-sign-four-mous-agree-to-organise-100-activities-242563">India, China sign four MoUs, agree to organise 100 activities</a>

India and China on Monday signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and agreed to organise 100 activities in the coming months in the domain of film and broadcasting in bid to further strengthen the cultural and people-to-people ties between the two countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-would-enthusiastically-support-a-uk-choice-for-no-deal-brexit-security-adviser-john-bolton-242569">US would enthusiastically support a UK choice for no-deal Brexit: Security adviser John Bolton</a>

The United States would enthusiastically support a no-deal Brexit if that is what the British government decided to do, US national security adviser John Bolton said on Monday during a visit to London aimed at reassuring Britain over UK-US ties.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/40-years-of-walkman-worlds-first-portable-music-player-242568">40 years of Walkman: World's first portable music player</a>

It has been 40 years since the Japanese electronics giant, Sony, launched the iconic 'walkman'- the portable music playback device.

You will hardly meet a college-going youth of the 1980s who wasn't a walkman fan. The ubiquitous cassette player was a must-have gadget of the youth of those times.

&nbsp;

US has advanced weapons than the 'failed' Russian 'Skyfall' missile: Donald Trump United States President Donald Trump weighed in on a mysterious explosion in Russia, noting US technology is more advanced to the "failed" weapon.

US has advanced weapons than the 'failed' Russian 'Skyfall' missile: Donald Trump United States President Donald Trump weighed in on a mysterious explosion in Russia, noting US technology is more advanced to the "failed" weapon. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam says rule of law being damaged, city's recovery will take long time Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday that "lawbreaking activities in the name of freedom" were damaging the rule of law and that the Asian financial hub's recovery from anti-government protests could take a long time. India, China sign four MoUs, agree to organise 100 activities India and China on Monday signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and agreed to organise 100 activities in the coming months in the domain of film and broadcasting in bid to further strengthen the cultural and people-to-people ties between the two countries. US would enthusiastically support a UK choice for no-deal Brexit: Security adviser John Bolton The United States would enthusiastically support a no-deal Brexit if that is what the British government decided to do, US national security adviser John Bolton said on Monday during a visit to London aimed at reassuring Britain over UK-US ties. 40 years of Walkman: World's first portable music player It has been 40 years since the Japanese electronics giant, Sony, launched the iconic 'walkman'- the portable music playback device. You will hardly meet a college-going youth of the 1980s who wasn't a walkman fan. The ubiquitous cassette player was a must-have gadget of the youth of those times.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Authorities at Hong Kong airport on Tuesday suspended all departure check-ins <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-rights-chief-calls-for-independent-impartial-investigation-into-hong-kong-violence-242701">after&nbsp;protesters blocked</a> the facility for a second day, but some flights were still arriving and taking off.

"Terminal operations at Hong Kong International Airport have been seriously disrupted as a result of the public assembly," the airport authority said in a statement.

"All check-in service for departure flights has been suspended since 1630hrs (0930 GMT). Other departure and arrival flights for the rest of the day will continue to operate, and airlines will provide arrangements for passengers who have not completed the departure process."

"Members of the public are advised not to come to the airport."

Amid the disruptions due to protests<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/when-will-you-die-hong-kong-leader-carrie-lam-grilled-at-press-conference-242677"> at Hong Kong airports</a>, Cathay Pacific halted check-ins citing "potential for new disruptions".

Cathay became embroiled in the protests after China's civil aviation regulator demanded the airline suspend personnel who were engaged in or supported "illegal protests" in Hong Kong from staffing flights into its airspace, citing safety concerns.

The airline moved fast to comply with the demand from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), suspending a pilot arrested during anti-government protests in Hong Kong and firing two airport employees citing misconduct on Saturday.

On Monday, Hong Kong airport authorities had cancelled all flights in Hong Kong airport as anti-government protests escalated for the fourth day.&nbsp;

However, it added that it will increase transfer capacity in the Greater Bay Area airports to avoid disruption to trips between the mainland and Hong Kong.

Cathay was also on Monday among airlines affected by the Hong Kong airport's decision to cancel all flights. The airline warned passengers in a travel advisory that the impact could last until Tuesday morning.

(Inputs: AFP, Reuters) 
&nbsp;

Authorities at Hong Kong airport on Tuesday suspended all departure check-ins after protesters blocked the facility for a second day, but some flights were still arriving and taking off.

Authorities at Hong Kong airport on Tuesday suspended all departure check-ins after protesters blocked the facility for a second day, but some flights were still arriving and taking off. "Terminal operations at Hong Kong International Airport have been seriously disrupted as a result of the public assembly," the airport authority said in a statement. "All check-in service for departure flights has been suspended since 1630hrs (0930 GMT). Other departure and arrival flights for the rest of the day will continue to operate, and airlines will provide arrangements for passengers who have not completed the departure process." "Members of the public are advised not to come to the airport." Amid the disruptions due to protests at Hong Kong airports, Cathay Pacific halted check-ins citing "potential for new disruptions". Cathay became embroiled in the protests after China's civil aviation regulator demanded the airline suspend personnel who were engaged in or supported "illegal protests" in Hong Kong from staffing flights into its airspace, citing safety concerns. The airline moved fast to comply with the demand from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), suspending a pilot arrested during anti-government protests in Hong Kong and firing two airport employees citing misconduct on Saturday. On Monday, Hong Kong airport authorities had cancelled all flights in Hong Kong airport as anti-government protests escalated for the fourth day. However, it added that it will increase transfer capacity in the Greater Bay Area airports to avoid disruption to trips between the mainland and Hong Kong. Cathay was also on Monday among airlines affected by the Hong Kong airport's decision to cancel all flights. The airline warned passengers in a travel advisory that the impact could last until Tuesday morning. (Inputs: AFP, Reuters)

All check-ins suspended at Hong Kong airport as protests escalate

When Hong Kong's leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-leader-says-rule-of-law-being-damaged-citys-recovery-will-take-long-time-242574">Carrie Lam</a> appeared before the press on Tuesday, she appeared to be expecting to deliver a brief statement and move on. Instead, she faced a media onslaught.

No sooner were her prepared remarks finished than the full-frontal assault -- in both Cantonese and English -- began.&nbsp;

"You blame your own political misjudgement on others, and refuse to acknowledge your mistakes," one journalist said.

"When will you accept political responsibility to end citizens' fear?... When will you be willing to step down? When will you tell the police to stop?," the reporter from Hong Kong's public broadcaster RTHK asked.

Before Lam could respond, the reporter added an admonition: "You asked me in the past to take my job seriously, so please answer me seriously as well."

The embattled Beijing-backed leader began to reply but more questions were shouted.

"Citizens are afraid of you and the police, can you answer the question?"

Watch: Hong Kong airport reopens, still about 200 flights remain cancelled

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-airport-reopens-still-about-200-flights-remain-cancelled-242660/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The combative press conference was an indication of the rising tensions in the city after a weekend of violence that left dozens of people with injuries, some of them serious.

Under the "One country, two systems" principle, the media in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protest-us-urges-all-sides-to-refrain-from-violence-flight-operations-resume-after-unprecedented-closure-242560">Hong Kong</a> enjoys freedoms unheard of in mainland China. A broad spectrum of political leanings are represented, from fiesty independent elements to strongly pro-Beijing outlets.

Lam at times appeared caught off-guard by the intensity of the questioning, with reporters repeatedly interrupting her and accusing her of failing to respond.

"Please don't interrupt," an official pleaded as reporters shouted over Lam.

At one point she paused, looked down, and then looked up again at reporters with her eyebrows raised as they continued to fire questions at her.

At other moments, she sipped from a glass of water as the barrage of questions continued.

In her opening remarks, she called for calm.

"I again ask everyone to put aside your differences and calm down," Lam said, who appeared to be on the verge of tears at one point.

"Take a minute to think, look at our city, our home, do you all really want to see it pushed into an abyss?"

Lam defended the police against accusations of excessive force over the weekend, when rounds of tear gas were fired into subway stations and on crowded shopping streets.

She said she was "heartbroken" by reports of serious injuries, but offered no concessions to the demonstrators and insisted that police were facing "extremely difficult circumstances".

"This question has been answered," she repeated as she was pressed on whether Beijing would allow her to fully withdraw a now-suspended bill allowing extradition to the mainland -- a key protester demand.

And the barrage continued as she abruptly left the podium: "Do you have a conscience?" shouted one journalist.

"Mrs Lam, many citizens have been asking recently when you will die," yelled another.

When Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam appeared before the press on Tuesday, she appeared to be expecting to deliver a brief statement and move on. Instead, she faced a media onslaught.

When Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam appeared before the press on Tuesday, she appeared to be expecting to deliver a brief statement and move on. Instead, she faced a media onslaught. No sooner were her prepared remarks finished than the full-frontal assault -- in both Cantonese and English -- began. "You blame your own political misjudgement on others, and refuse to acknowledge your mistakes," one journalist said. "When will you accept political responsibility to end citizens' fear?... When will you be willing to step down? When will you tell the police to stop?," the reporter from Hong Kong's public broadcaster RTHK asked. Before Lam could respond, the reporter added an admonition: "You asked me in the past to take my job seriously, so please answer me seriously as well." The embattled Beijing-backed leader began to reply but more questions were shouted. "Citizens are afraid of you and the police, can you answer the question?" Watch: Hong Kong airport reopens, still about 200 flights remain cancelled × The combative press conference was an indication of the rising tensions in the city after a weekend of violence that left dozens of people with injuries, some of them serious. Under the "One country, two systems" principle, the media in Hong Kong enjoys freedoms unheard of in mainland China. A broad spectrum of political leanings are represented, from fiesty independent elements to strongly pro-Beijing outlets. Lam at times appeared caught off-guard by the intensity of the questioning, with reporters repeatedly interrupting her and accusing her of failing to respond. "Please don't interrupt," an official pleaded as reporters shouted over Lam. At one point she paused, looked down, and then looked up again at reporters with her eyebrows raised as they continued to fire questions at her. At other moments, she sipped from a glass of water as the barrage of questions continued. In her opening remarks, she called for calm. "I again ask everyone to put aside your differences and calm down," Lam said, who appeared to be on the verge of tears at one point. "Take a minute to think, look at our city, our home, do you all really want to see it pushed into an abyss?" Lam defended the police against accusations of excessive force over the weekend, when rounds of tear gas were fired into subway stations and on crowded shopping streets. She said she was "heartbroken" by reports of serious injuries, but offered no concessions to the demonstrators and insisted that police were facing "extremely difficult circumstances". "This question has been answered," she repeated as she was pressed on whether Beijing would allow her to fully withdraw a now-suspended bill allowing extradition to the mainland -- a key protester demand. And the barrage continued as she abruptly left the podium: "Do you have a conscience?" shouted one journalist. "Mrs Lam, many citizens have been asking recently when you will die," yelled another.

'When will you die?' Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam grilled at press conference

Hong Kong airport authorities cancelled all remaining <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-hong-kong-violence-as-terrorism-airport-cancels-all-flight-operations-due-to-protests-242394">departing and arriving flights</a> at the major travel hub on Monday after thousands of protesters entered the arrivals hall to stage a demonstration.

"Other than the departure flights that have completed the check-in process and the arrival flights that are already heading to Hong Kong, all other flights have been cancelled for the rest of today," the airport authority said in a statement.

The decision came after thousands of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/equipped-with-surveillance-cameras-hong-kong-police-unveils-water-cannon-after-new-protests-242370"> pro-democracy demonstrators</a> flooded into the airport holding signs reading "Hong Kong is not safe" and "Shame on police".

"Airport operations at Hong Kong International Airport have been seriously disrupted as a result of the public assembly at the airport today," the statement said.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/its-humanitarian-the-medics-helping-hong-kongs-protesters-242400/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>


It warned that traffic to the airport was "very congested" and the facility's car parks were completely full.

"Members of the public are advised not to come to the airport."

More than 5,000 protesters gathered at Hong Kong airport on Monday, police said, as authorities cancelled all the day's remaining flights in and out of the busy international transport hub.

"The information I got before we came in was that in the airport passenger terminal building there are over 5,000 protesters," said Kong Wing-cheung, senior superintendent of the police public relations branch, at a press conference.

Kong said airport authorities had allowed demonstrators to gather in the arrivals halls -- although the protest was not granted a permit from police -- but accused the activists of blocking departures.

"Some of the protesters had gone into the departures hall, causing some passengers to be unable to enter the restricted area to exercise their personal freedom, which is to board their flight," he said.

Pro-democracy activists staged three days of sit-ins at the airport from Friday, but the protests were significantly smaller than Monday's which followed a weekend of often violent confrontations between police and demonstrators across the city.

Hong Kong airport authorities cancelled all remaining departing and arriving flights at the major travel hub on Monday after thousands of protesters entered the arrivals hall to stage a demonstration.

Hong Kong airport authorities cancelled all remaining departing and arriving flights at the major travel hub on Monday after thousands of protesters entered the arrivals hall to stage a demonstration. "Other than the departure flights that have completed the check-in process and the arrival flights that are already heading to Hong Kong, all other flights have been cancelled for the rest of today," the airport authority said in a statement. The decision came after thousands of pro-democracy demonstrators flooded into the airport holding signs reading "Hong Kong is not safe" and "Shame on police". "Airport operations at Hong Kong International Airport have been seriously disrupted as a result of the public assembly at the airport today," the statement said. Watch Video: It warned that traffic to the airport was "very congested" and the facility's car parks were completely full. "Members of the public are advised not to come to the airport." More than 5,000 protesters gathered at Hong Kong airport on Monday, police said, as authorities cancelled all the day's remaining flights in and out of the busy international transport hub. "The information I got before we came in was that in the airport passenger terminal building there are over 5,000 protesters," said Kong Wing-cheung, senior superintendent of the police public relations branch, at a press conference. Kong said airport authorities had allowed demonstrators to gather in the arrivals halls -- although the protest was not granted a permit from police -- but accused the activists of blocking departures. "Some of the protesters had gone into the departures hall, causing some passengers to be unable to enter the restricted area to exercise their personal freedom, which is to board their flight," he said. Pro-democracy activists staged three days of sit-ins at the airport from Friday, but the protests were significantly smaller than Monday's which followed a weekend of often violent confrontations between police and demonstrators across the city.

Flights cancelled in Hong Kong airport as protests escalate

China warned Britain to stop "meddling" in Hong Kong after a top British official called the international financial hub's leader to voice concern about protests that have rocked the city for two months.

The pro-democracy protests, which are partly fuelled by widespread anger at erosion of liberties in Hong Kong, have become the biggest threat to Beijing's rule of the semi-autonomous southern Chinese city since its handover from the British in 1997.

On Friday, British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab had a call with Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam, where he emphasised the need for a "fully independent investigation into recent events", according to Britain's foreign ministry -- prompting a furious response from Beijing.

"China solemnly demands that the British side immediately stop all actions that meddle in Hong Kong affairs and interfere in China's internal affairs," said Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying Saturday.

Slamming Raab's decision to call Carrie Lam as "wrong", Hua urged Britain to stop "stirring up trouble" in Hong Kong in an online statement.

Beijing has increasingly pitched the anti-government protests in the semi-autonomous region as funded by the West but has provided little evidence beyond supportive statements from some Western politicians.

Last week, the Chinese government slammed Washington after reports emerged that some US diplomats based in Hong Kong had met with pro-democracy activists.

The Chinese foreign ministry urged the US to "immediately make a clean break with various anti-China rioters" and "stop interfering in Hong Kong's affairs immediately".

Tensions are high in the Asian financial hub after two months of protests and clashes triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law that quickly evolved into a wider movement for democratic reforms.

Last week, the city witnessed a rare general strike and the most widespread unrest in two months of demonstrations -- with police firing 800 rounds of tear gas in a single day at a dozen locations.

A total of 420 people have been arrested since rallies began on June 9, according to Hong Kong police in early August.

China warned Britain to stop "meddling" in Hong Kong after a top British official called the international financial hub's leader to voice concern about protests that have rocked the city for two months.

China warned Britain to stop "meddling" in Hong Kong after a top British official called the international financial hub's leader to voice concern about protests that have rocked the city for two months. The pro-democracy protests, which are partly fuelled by widespread anger at erosion of liberties in Hong Kong, have become the biggest threat to Beijing's rule of the semi-autonomous southern Chinese city since its handover from the British in 1997. On Friday, British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab had a call with Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam, where he emphasised the need for a "fully independent investigation into recent events", according to Britain's foreign ministry -- prompting a furious response from Beijing. "China solemnly demands that the British side immediately stop all actions that meddle in Hong Kong affairs and interfere in China's internal affairs," said Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying Saturday. Slamming Raab's decision to call Carrie Lam as "wrong", Hua urged Britain to stop "stirring up trouble" in Hong Kong in an online statement. Beijing has increasingly pitched the anti-government protests in the semi-autonomous region as funded by the West but has provided little evidence beyond supportive statements from some Western politicians. Last week, the Chinese government slammed Washington after reports emerged that some US diplomats based in Hong Kong had met with pro-democracy activists. The Chinese foreign ministry urged the US to "immediately make a clean break with various anti-China rioters" and "stop interfering in Hong Kong's affairs immediately". Tensions are high in the Asian financial hub after two months of protests and clashes triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law that quickly evolved into a wider movement for democratic reforms. Last week, the city witnessed a rare general strike and the most widespread unrest in two months of demonstrations -- with police firing 800 rounds of tear gas in a single day at a dozen locations. A total of 420 people have been arrested since rallies began on June 9, according to Hong Kong police in early August.

China demands Britain stop 'meddling' in Hong Kong

Empty hotel rooms, struggling shops and even disruption at Disneyland,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-fire-tear-gas-during-another-weekend-of-protests-242034">months of protests in Hong Kong</a> have taken a major toll on the city's economy, with no end in sight.

City leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-chief-warns-of-economic-fall-rules-out-concessions-241809">Carrie Lam has warned that the international financial hub is facing an economic crisis</a> worse than either the 2003 SARS outbreak that paralysed Hong Kong or the 2008 financial crisis.

"The situation this time is more severe," she said. "In other words, the economic recovery will take a very long time."

The private sector, in particular, the tourism industry, has begun counting the cost of more than two months of demonstrations that erupted in opposition to a bill allowing extraditions to China but have morphed into a broader pro-democracy movement.

The figures are stark,&nbsp;hotel occupancy rates are down "double-digit" percentages, as were visitor arrivals in July. Group tour bookings from the short-haul market have plunged up to 50 per cent.

"In recent months, what has happened in Hong Kong has indeed put local people's livelihoods as well as the economy in a worrying, or even dangerous situation," warned Edward Yau, Hong Kong's secretary for commerce and economic development.

The city's tourism industry says it feels under siege.

"I think the situation is getting more and more serious," Jason Wong, chairman of the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong, told AFP.&nbsp;

The impact is so bad that travel agents are considering putting staff on unpaid leave as they try to weather the storm, he warned.

Even Disneyland hit

Images of increasingly violent clashes between masked protesters and police firing tear gas in the city's streets have made global headlines, with protesters announcing new demonstrations throughout August as they press their demands.

A Hong Kong Tourism Board spokesperson told AFP that the number of forwarding bookings in August and September has "dropped significantly," suggesting the economic toll will linger throughout the summer season.

A string of travel warnings issued by countries including the United States, Australia and Japan is likely to compound the industry's woes.

The fall in arrivals has hurt Hong Kong's carrier Cathay Pacific, which was also forced to cancel flights this week during a general strike that caused chaos in the city.

And even Disneyland Hong Kong has been hit, with CEO Bob Iger telling reporters: "We have seen an impact from the protests."

"There's definitely been disruption. That has impacted our visitation there."

The retail sector has also been hit by the drop in arriving visitors hunting for bargains, shops often forced to shutter during the sometimes daily protests.&nbsp;

Experts say the crisis is compounding the economic downturn Hong Kong was already experiencing as a result of being caught up in the US-China trade war.

It's a "double whammy," warned Stephen Innes, Managing Partner of Valour Markets."

"We always take a view that oh, this too will pass. But so far that view is not holding any water... and now it seems like every weekend we're dealing with further escalations," he told AFP.&nbsp;

'Nastier than expected'

The property market, which fell over 20 per cent during the 2008 financial crash, remains strong.

But Innes warned that the deepening crisis could result in capital outflows.

"All the money from the mainland that has propped up Hong Kong property markets could reverse as quickly as it flowed in," he said.

"This is getting a little bit nastier than any of us had expected."

The economic picture for the city was far from pretty even before the protests began, with growth shrinking from 4.6 per cent to 0.6 per cent year-on-year in the first quarter -- the worst quarterly performance in a decade.&nbsp;

Preliminary data suggests the second quarter fared no better, and while the government still hopes for 2-3 per cent growth this year, predictions from major banks are more pessimistic.

Those falls reflect the effects of the US-China trade war on an economy that relies heavily on logistics processing and is vulnerable to a fall in trade.

The impact of the protests on growth will not be clear until later in the year, but Martin Rasmussen, China Economist at Capital Economics, said the crisis was likely to weigh heavily.

"In the beginning, they were quite peaceful, you could say comparable to the protests back in 2014," he said, referring to pro-democracy Umbrella Movement in the city.

"Now they've become much more extreme, so we think the impact on the economy will begin to take its toll." 
&nbsp;

Empty hotel rooms, struggling shops and even disruption at Disneyland, months of protests in Hong Kong have taken a major toll on the city's economy, with no end in sight.

Empty hotel rooms, struggling shops and even disruption at Disneyland, months of protests in Hong Kong have taken a major toll on the city's economy, with no end in sight. City leader Carrie Lam has warned that the international financial hub is facing an economic crisis worse than either the 2003 SARS outbreak that paralysed Hong Kong or the 2008 financial crisis. "The situation this time is more severe," she said. "In other words, the economic recovery will take a very long time." The private sector, in particular, the tourism industry, has begun counting the cost of more than two months of demonstrations that erupted in opposition to a bill allowing extraditions to China but have morphed into a broader pro-democracy movement. The figures are stark, hotel occupancy rates are down "double-digit" percentages, as were visitor arrivals in July. Group tour bookings from the short-haul market have plunged up to 50 per cent. "In recent months, what has happened in Hong Kong has indeed put local people's livelihoods as well as the economy in a worrying, or even dangerous situation," warned Edward Yau, Hong Kong's secretary for commerce and economic development. The city's tourism industry says it feels under siege. "I think the situation is getting more and more serious," Jason Wong, chairman of the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong, told AFP. The impact is so bad that travel agents are considering putting staff on unpaid leave as they try to weather the storm, he warned. Even Disneyland hit Images of increasingly violent clashes between masked protesters and police firing tear gas in the city's streets have made global headlines, with protesters announcing new demonstrations throughout August as they press their demands. A Hong Kong Tourism Board spokesperson told AFP that the number of forwarding bookings in August and September has "dropped significantly," suggesting the economic toll will linger throughout the summer season. A string of travel warnings issued by countries including the United States, Australia and Japan is likely to compound the industry's woes. The fall in arrivals has hurt Hong Kong's carrier Cathay Pacific, which was also forced to cancel flights this week during a general strike that caused chaos in the city. And even Disneyland Hong Kong has been hit, with CEO Bob Iger telling reporters: "We have seen an impact from the protests." "There's definitely been disruption. That has impacted our visitation there." The retail sector has also been hit by the drop in arriving visitors hunting for bargains, shops often forced to shutter during the sometimes daily protests. Experts say the crisis is compounding the economic downturn Hong Kong was already experiencing as a result of being caught up in the US-China trade war. It's a "double whammy," warned Stephen Innes, Managing Partner of Valour Markets." "We always take a view that oh, this too will pass. But so far that view is not holding any water... and now it seems like every weekend we're dealing with further escalations," he told AFP. 'Nastier than expected' The property market, which fell over 20 per cent during the 2008 financial crash, remains strong. But Innes warned that the deepening crisis could result in capital outflows. "All the money from the mainland that has propped up Hong Kong property markets could reverse as quickly as it flowed in," he said. "This is getting a little bit nastier than any of us had expected." The economic picture for the city was far from pretty even before the protests began, with growth shrinking from 4.6 per cent to 0.6 per cent year-on-year in the first quarter -- the worst quarterly performance in a decade. Preliminary data suggests the second quarter fared no better, and while the government still hopes for 2-3 per cent growth this year, predictions from major banks are more pessimistic. Those falls reflect the effects of the US-China trade war on an economy that relies heavily on logistics processing and is vulnerable to a fall in trade. The impact of the protests on growth will not be clear until later in the year, but Martin Rasmussen, China Economist at Capital Economics, said the crisis was likely to weigh heavily. "In the beginning, they were quite peaceful, you could say comparable to the protests back in 2014," he said, referring to pro-democracy Umbrella Movement in the city. "Now they've become much more extreme, so we think the impact on the economy will begin to take its toll."

Tourism in trouble: Hong Kong protests hit economy

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/expect-craziness-as-china-readies-debut-of-nasdaq-style-board-236617">&nbsp;Hong Kong was bracing for another volatile weekend</a>, with anti-government protests planned across the city on Saturday, including one at the international airport for a second day.

Increasingly violent protests have plunged Hong Kong into its most serious political crisis for decades, posing a serious challenge to the central government in Beijing.

Protests planned for Saturday include one in Tai Po, a town in the north of the territory, and gatherings of elderly Hong Kongers and families.

Hong Kong's airport was also expecting a protest that is set to continue on Sunday. A group of 1,000 activists occupied the airport's arrivals hall on Friday but did not disrupt flights.

Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam on Friday said the economy was being undermined by the protests, which began in June and have become increasingly violent.

China, meanwhile, demanded that the city's<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-orders-cathay-pacific-to-suspend-staff-backing-hong-kong-protests-241882"> flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways suspend staff involved in the demonstrations</a>. One of its pilots was arrested last week.

Huarong International, the investment arm in Hong Kong of China Huarong Asset Management Company, has instructed staff not to fly Cathay Pacific if there are other options, according to an internal memo seen by Reuters and confirmed by a source at the company.

Lam's warning about the economy and China's targeting of a key Hong Kong business mark a toughening stance by authorities as they grapple with Hong Kong's deepest crisis in decades.

Young people have been at the forefront of the protests, worried about the erosion of freedoms in Hong Kong by China but also concerned with issues such as the wealth disparities in the financial center.

However, older people have also been appearing at the protests.

"There are clashes in the recent protests and many parents are worried," said Fion Yim, 35, representative of the organizing committee for what was billed as a family protest on Saturday.

"The freedom to protect our children is very important. We hope to provide a safer place for parents and their kids to participate in rallies, and to voice their concerns."

The protests began after Hong Kong's government tried introducing an extradition bill that would have allowed defendants to be sent to the mainland for trial.

The bill has been suspended, but protesters have stepped up their demands and are now calling for greater democracy and Lam's resignation.

The protests have been condemned by the central government in Beijing. China has also accused foreign powers of fuelling the unrest.

On Friday, the US State Department said that Chinese media reports about a US diplomat who met with Hong Kong pro-democracy leaders "have gone from irresponsible to dangerous" and must stop.

"Chinese authorities know full well, our accredited consular personnel are just doing their jobs, just like diplomats from every other country," US State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said in a tweet.

On Thursday, Ortagus called China a "thuggish regime" for disclosing photographs and personal details of the diplomat.

Hong Kong was bracing for another volatile weekend, with anti-government protests planned across the city on Saturday, including one at the international airport for a second day.

Hong Kong was bracing for another volatile weekend, with anti-government protests planned across the city on Saturday, including one at the international airport for a second day. Increasingly violent protests have plunged Hong Kong into its most serious political crisis for decades, posing a serious challenge to the central government in Beijing. Protests planned for Saturday include one in Tai Po, a town in the north of the territory, and gatherings of elderly Hong Kongers and families. Hong Kong's airport was also expecting a protest that is set to continue on Sunday. A group of 1,000 activists occupied the airport's arrivals hall on Friday but did not disrupt flights. Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam on Friday said the economy was being undermined by the protests, which began in June and have become increasingly violent. China, meanwhile, demanded that the city's flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways suspend staff involved in the demonstrations. One of its pilots was arrested last week. Huarong International, the investment arm in Hong Kong of China Huarong Asset Management Company, has instructed staff not to fly Cathay Pacific if there are other options, according to an internal memo seen by Reuters and confirmed by a source at the company. Lam's warning about the economy and China's targeting of a key Hong Kong business mark a toughening stance by authorities as they grapple with Hong Kong's deepest crisis in decades. Young people have been at the forefront of the protests, worried about the erosion of freedoms in Hong Kong by China but also concerned with issues such as the wealth disparities in the financial center. However, older people have also been appearing at the protests. "There are clashes in the recent protests and many parents are worried," said Fion Yim, 35, representative of the organizing committee for what was billed as a family protest on Saturday. "The freedom to protect our children is very important. We hope to provide a safer place for parents and their kids to participate in rallies, and to voice their concerns." The protests began after Hong Kong's government tried introducing an extradition bill that would have allowed defendants to be sent to the mainland for trial. The bill has been suspended, but protesters have stepped up their demands and are now calling for greater democracy and Lam's resignation. The protests have been condemned by the central government in Beijing. China has also accused foreign powers of fuelling the unrest. On Friday, the US State Department said that Chinese media reports about a US diplomat who met with Hong Kong pro-democracy leaders "have gone from irresponsible to dangerous" and must stop. "Chinese authorities know full well, our accredited consular personnel are just doing their jobs, just like diplomats from every other country," US State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said in a tweet. On Thursday, Ortagus called China a "thuggish regime" for disclosing photographs and personal details of the diplomat.

With young people at forefront Hong Kong braces for another weekend of protests

Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam warned Friday that two months of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-gravitas-hong-kong-civil-unrest-escalates-241594">pro-democracy demonstrations </a>were causing economic chaos in the city but ruled out making concessions to "silence the violent protesters."

The embattled leader abruptly announced a press conference after meeting business leaders as demonstrators rallied at the airport, with the protest movement entering its third month.

Lam, whose support for a bill to allow extradition to mainland <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-tells-united-states-diplomats-in-hong-kong-to-stop-interfering-241565/amp">China</a> sparked the crisis, warned that the economic impact of the unrest threatened to be worse than the 2003 SARS outbreak in the financial hub.

"The downturn this time came very quickly. Someone described it as coming like a tsunami," Lam said.

"Compared to the economic downturn caused by SARS that we handled previously, which caused an economic storm, the situation this time is more severe."

"In other words, the economic recovery will take a very long time," she added.

Watch: Fresh protests at Hong Kong airport, mock boarding passes read 'HK to freedom'

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fresh-protests-at-hong-kong-airport-mock-boarding-passes-read-hk-to-freedom-241671/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

While Lam is a figure of hatred for many pro-democracy activists, her comments echo worried statements from the private sector and the tourism industry in particular.

Hong Kong carrier Cathay Pacific has warned bookings are down, travel agencies have reported drops of up to 50 percent in group tour bookings and the tourism board reported double-digit declines in visitor arrivals in the second half of July.

Protesters have continued to stage almost daily rallies despite increasingly violent confrontations with police that have prompted several countries to issue Hong Kong travel warnings for their citizens.

On Friday, thousands of pro-democracy protesters staged a sit-in at the airport to bring their message to arriving visitors.

Lam has suspended the bill that sparked the crisis, but has not yet responded to protester calls to withdraw it altogether, and she has brushed aside demands for an enquiry into police brutality.

She ruled out meeting the demands of protesters, which also include a call for the direct election of the city's chief executive, currently chosen by Beijing.

"As far as political solution is concerned, I don't think we should just sort of make concessions in order to silence the violent protesters," she said.

"We should do what is right for Hong Kong. And at this moment what is right for Hong Kong... is to stop the violence, and to say no to the chaotic situation that Hong Kong has experienced in the last few weeks, so that we can move on."

She said the way for the economy to begin recovering was to "stop the widespread violent actions now appearing in Hong Kong." 
&nbsp;

Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam warned Friday that two months of pro-democracy demonstrations were causing economic chaos in the city but ruled out making concessions to "silence the violent protesters.

Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam warned Friday that two months of pro-democracy demonstrations were causing economic chaos in the city but ruled out making concessions to "silence the violent protesters." The embattled leader abruptly announced a press conference after meeting business leaders as demonstrators rallied at the airport, with the protest movement entering its third month. Lam, whose support for a bill to allow extradition to mainland China sparked the crisis, warned that the economic impact of the unrest threatened to be worse than the 2003 SARS outbreak in the financial hub. "The downturn this time came very quickly. Someone described it as coming like a tsunami," Lam said. "Compared to the economic downturn caused by SARS that we handled previously, which caused an economic storm, the situation this time is more severe." "In other words, the economic recovery will take a very long time," she added. Watch: Fresh protests at Hong Kong airport, mock boarding passes read 'HK to freedom' × While Lam is a figure of hatred for many pro-democracy activists, her comments echo worried statements from the private sector and the tourism industry in particular. Hong Kong carrier Cathay Pacific has warned bookings are down, travel agencies have reported drops of up to 50 percent in group tour bookings and the tourism board reported double-digit declines in visitor arrivals in the second half of July. Protesters have continued to stage almost daily rallies despite increasingly violent confrontations with police that have prompted several countries to issue Hong Kong travel warnings for their citizens. On Friday, thousands of pro-democracy protesters staged a sit-in at the airport to bring their message to arriving visitors. Lam has suspended the bill that sparked the crisis, but has not yet responded to protester calls to withdraw it altogether, and she has brushed aside demands for an enquiry into police brutality. She ruled out meeting the demands of protesters, which also include a call for the direct election of the city's chief executive, currently chosen by Beijing. "As far as political solution is concerned, I don't think we should just sort of make concessions in order to silence the violent protesters," she said. "We should do what is right for Hong Kong. And at this moment what is right for Hong Kong... is to stop the violence, and to say no to the chaotic situation that Hong Kong has experienced in the last few weeks, so that we can move on." She said the way for the economy to begin recovering was to "stop the widespread violent actions now appearing in Hong Kong."

Hong Kong chief Carrie Lam warns of economic fall, rules out concessions

The United States raised its travel warning for Hong Kong, urging <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-facing-biggest-crisis-since-handover-senior-china-official-241270">travellers to exercise increased</a> caution in the Chinese territory due to what it described as civil unrest after months of sometimes violent street protests.

The protests in the Asian financial hub began with opposition to a now-suspended<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/around-50-staff-at-hong-kong-disney-join-city-wide-strike-241018"> extradition law</a> and have evolved into a direct challenge to the government and calls for full democracy.

"The protests and confrontations have spilled over into neighbourhoods other than those where the police have permitted marches or rallies," said the advisory, which was posted on the US Consulate General Hong Kong and Macau's website on Wednesday.

"These demonstrations, which can take place with little or no notice, are likely to continue," it said. The advisory was raised to level two on a four-point scale.

Australia also warned its travellers in an updated advisory on Wednesday.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinas-warning-to-hong-kongs-protesters-do-not-play-with-fire-241229/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

The protests pose the biggest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. Xi is also grappling with a debilitating trade war with the United States and a slowing economy.

Hong Kong is facing its worst crisis since it returned to China from British rule in 1997 because of the protests, the head of China's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs office said on Wednesday.

More protests are planned in several districts across the city this weekend, starting on Friday, with demonstrators also planning a three-day rally at the city's international airport.

Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam visited Hong Kong districts on Wednesday to speak with residents and inspect a police station that had been the target of recent protests.

She said in a statement after the visit the government would put forward measures to improve people's livelihoods.

Young people have been at the forefront of the protests and are angry about broader problems that include sky-high living costs and what they see as an unfair housing policy skewed towards the rich.

The normally efficient and orderly city has seen its transport network besieged and shut down by demonstrators, while protests across the city have also shut big-brand stores and popular shopping malls.

Hong Kong police have arrested 589 people since the protests began in June, the youngest aged 13.

Several thousand Hong Kong lawyers, dressed in black, marched in silence on Wednesday to call on the government to safeguard the independence of the city's department of justice.

They fear the justice department's prosecutions of arrested protesters are taking on an increasingly political slant. Many of those arrested have been charged with rioting, which carries a 10-year jail term.

Protesters have started to use increasingly diverse tactics to evade capture, shifting quickly from place to place and using online platforms such as Telegram to direct hundreds of people.

They also circulated brightly coloured pamphlets for tourists ahead of the airport demonstrations to help them understand what was happening. The pamphlets said the protesters would never surrender.

"Dear Travellers, please forgive us for the 'unexpected Hong Kong'. You're arrived in a broken, torn-apart city, not the one you have once pictured. Yet the city you imagined is exactly what we are fighting for," the pamphlets said.

The United States raised its travel warning for Hong Kong, urging travellers to exercise increased caution in the Chinese territory due to what it described as civil unrest after months of sometimes violent street protests.

The United States raised its travel warning for Hong Kong, urging travellers to exercise increased caution in the Chinese territory due to what it described as civil unrest after months of sometimes violent street protests. The protests in the Asian financial hub began with opposition to a now-suspended extradition law and have evolved into a direct challenge to the government and calls for full democracy. "The protests and confrontations have spilled over into neighbourhoods other than those where the police have permitted marches or rallies," said the advisory, which was posted on the US Consulate General Hong Kong and Macau's website on Wednesday. "These demonstrations, which can take place with little or no notice, are likely to continue," it said. The advisory was raised to level two on a four-point scale. Australia also warned its travellers in an updated advisory on Wednesday. Watch Video: The protests pose the biggest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. Xi is also grappling with a debilitating trade war with the United States and a slowing economy. Hong Kong is facing its worst crisis since it returned to China from British rule in 1997 because of the protests, the head of China's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs office said on Wednesday. More protests are planned in several districts across the city this weekend, starting on Friday, with demonstrators also planning a three-day rally at the city's international airport. Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam visited Hong Kong districts on Wednesday to speak with residents and inspect a police station that had been the target of recent protests. She said in a statement after the visit the government would put forward measures to improve people's livelihoods. Young people have been at the forefront of the protests and are angry about broader problems that include sky-high living costs and what they see as an unfair housing policy skewed towards the rich. The normally efficient and orderly city has seen its transport network besieged and shut down by demonstrators, while protests across the city have also shut big-brand stores and popular shopping malls. Hong Kong police have arrested 589 people since the protests began in June, the youngest aged 13. Several thousand Hong Kong lawyers, dressed in black, marched in silence on Wednesday to call on the government to safeguard the independence of the city's department of justice. They fear the justice department's prosecutions of arrested protesters are taking on an increasingly political slant. Many of those arrested have been charged with rioting, which carries a 10-year jail term. Protesters have started to use increasingly diverse tactics to evade capture, shifting quickly from place to place and using online platforms such as Telegram to direct hundreds of people. They also circulated brightly coloured pamphlets for tourists ahead of the airport demonstrations to help them understand what was happening. The pamphlets said the protesters would never surrender. "Dear Travellers, please forgive us for the 'unexpected Hong Kong'. You're arrived in a broken, torn-apart city, not the one you have once pictured. Yet the city you imagined is exactly what we are fighting for," the pamphlets said.

US raises Hong Kong travel warning amid street protests

China's ruling Communist Party once again underlined its wholesale support for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/people-impertinently-proposing-to-reclaim-hong-kong-chief-executive-carrie-lam-240740">Hong Kong's embattled leader </a>&nbsp;Carrie Lam on Tuesday as it struggles to contain increasingly violent anti-government unrest.

The two-month crisis has become the biggest threat to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-flights-cancelled-as-hong-kong-protesters-launch-city-wide-strike-240696">Beijing's rule of the semi-autonomous</a> southern Chinese city since its handover from the British in 1997.

One of the protesters' key demands is for Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam to stand down.

But, a day after a series of rallies that included bloody clashes between protesters and pro-government men brandishing poles, the Communist Party's mouthpiece published a front-page commentary in Beijing defending Lam.

"All kinds of evildoing go beyond peaceful demonstrations. No civilisation or society governed by law will tolerate this," said the commentary in the People's Daily.

"The (party's) central committee has full confidence in chief executive Carrie Lam and fully affirms her work."

Officials from China's cabinet-level State Council were also due to hold a press conference on Tuesday afternoon in Beijing about the unrest.&nbsp;

Such media briefings are normally very rare but Tuesday's will be the second in as many weeks.

The demonstrations were triggered by opposition to a planned law that would have allowed extraditions of criminals to mainland China.

They evolved into a wider movement for democratic reform and a halt to eroding freedoms, with protesters' anger fuelled by Lam's refusal to publicly acknowledge their grievances.

In a press conference, Lam on Monday warned the city was nearing a "very dangerous situation" as she framed the protests as a challenge to China's sovereignty.

China's ruling Communist Party once again underlined its wholesale support for Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday as it struggles to contain increasingly violent anti-government unrest.

China's ruling Communist Party once again underlined its wholesale support for Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday as it struggles to contain increasingly violent anti-government unrest. The two-month crisis has become the biggest threat to Beijing's rule of the semi-autonomous southern Chinese city since its handover from the British in 1997. One of the protesters' key demands is for Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam to stand down. But, a day after a series of rallies that included bloody clashes between protesters and pro-government men brandishing poles, the Communist Party's mouthpiece published a front-page commentary in Beijing defending Lam. "All kinds of evildoing go beyond peaceful demonstrations. No civilisation or society governed by law will tolerate this," said the commentary in the People's Daily. "The (party's) central committee has full confidence in chief executive Carrie Lam and fully affirms her work." Officials from China's cabinet-level State Council were also due to hold a press conference on Tuesday afternoon in Beijing about the unrest. Such media briefings are normally very rare but Tuesday's will be the second in as many weeks. The demonstrations were triggered by opposition to a planned law that would have allowed extraditions of criminals to mainland China. They evolved into a wider movement for democratic reform and a halt to eroding freedoms, with protesters' anger fuelled by Lam's refusal to publicly acknowledge their grievances. In a press conference, Lam on Monday warned the city was nearing a "very dangerous situation" as she framed the protests as a challenge to China's sovereignty.

Communist Party has full confidence in Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam: China

Hong Kong's embattled pro-Beijing leader on Monday accused pro-democracy protesters of trying to "destroy" the city in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-flights-cancelled-as-hong-kong-protesters-launch-city-wide-strike-240696">dramatic escalation of rhetoric </a>as the financial hub is rocked by two months of rallies and clashes.

Two months of protests and clashes with police have pushed the semi-autonomous city to a "very dangerous situation", chief executive Carrie Lam said, as she struck a defiant tone as strikes and travel chaos hit the city.

Lam has maintained a low profile as two months of unprecedented protests have raged.&nbsp;

But on Monday she held a press conference -&nbsp;her first in more than two weeks -&nbsp;as activists launched a civil disobedience campaign against the city's transport network, part of an attempted city-wide strike.

Lam, who was chosen by a Beijing loyalist committee, showed no sign of backing down or ceding to protester demands for greater democratic freedoms and an independent inquiry into police violence.

Instead, she condemned the increasingly violent and confrontational tactics adopted by protesters in recent weeks.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Hong Kong protest wakes up to Monday, pro-democracy protest gets drastic

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-protest-wakes-up-to-monday-pro-democracy-protest-gets-drastic-240726/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Such extensive disruptions in the name of certain demands or uncooperative movement has seriously undermined Hong Kong's law and order and are pushing our city, the city that we all love and many of us helped to build, to the verge of a very dangerous situation," she said.&nbsp;

Widespread disruptions and violence, she said, were putting Hong Kongers "in a state of great anxiety" and she vowed to continue cracking down.&nbsp;

"The government will be resolute in maintaining law and order in Hong Kong and restoring confidence," she said.

"We saw recently, it is already clear that people are impertinently proposing to 'reclaim Hong Kong, revolution of our times'... and challenge the country's national sovereignty," she said, referencing the now most commonly-heard chant used at demonstrations.

"I dare say it is trying to topple Hong Kong, completely destroy the cherished lives of more than seven million people."

Protesters say they have been forced to adopt more violent tactics after years of huge rallies have failed to halt sliding freedoms in the city under Beijing's rule.&nbsp;

They also accuse police of using excessive violence -- allegations the city's force has rejected.&nbsp;

Hong Kong's embattled pro-Beijing leader on Monday accused pro-democracy protesters of trying to "destroy" the city in a dramatic escalation of rhetoric as the financial hub is rocked by two months of rallies and clashes.

Hong Kong's embattled pro-Beijing leader on Monday accused pro-democracy protesters of trying to "destroy" the city in a dramatic escalation of rhetoric as the financial hub is rocked by two months of rallies and clashes. Two months of protests and clashes with police have pushed the semi-autonomous city to a "very dangerous situation", chief executive Carrie Lam said, as she struck a defiant tone as strikes and travel chaos hit the city. Lam has maintained a low profile as two months of unprecedented protests have raged. But on Monday she held a press conference - her first in more than two weeks - as activists launched a civil disobedience campaign against the city's transport network, part of an attempted city-wide strike. Lam, who was chosen by a Beijing loyalist committee, showed no sign of backing down or ceding to protester demands for greater democratic freedoms and an independent inquiry into police violence. Instead, she condemned the increasingly violent and confrontational tactics adopted by protesters in recent weeks. Watch: Hong Kong protest wakes up to Monday, pro-democracy protest gets drastic "Such extensive disruptions in the name of certain demands or uncooperative movement has seriously undermined Hong Kong's law and order and are pushing our city, the city that we all love and many of us helped to build, to the verge of a very dangerous situation," she said. Widespread disruptions and violence, she said, were putting Hong Kongers "in a state of great anxiety" and she vowed to continue cracking down. "The government will be resolute in maintaining law and order in Hong Kong and restoring confidence," she said. "We saw recently, it is already clear that people are impertinently proposing to 'reclaim Hong Kong, revolution of our times'... and challenge the country's national sovereignty," she said, referencing the now most commonly-heard chant used at demonstrations. "I dare say it is trying to topple Hong Kong, completely destroy the cherished lives of more than seven million people." Protesters say they have been forced to adopt more violent tactics after years of huge rallies have failed to halt sliding freedoms in the city under Beijing's rule. They also accuse police of using excessive violence -- allegations the city's force has rejected.

People impertinently proposing to 'reclaim Hong Kong': Chief executive Carrie Lam

More than 100 flights were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/second-night-of-tear-gas-as-hong-kong-protesters-defy-warnings-china-says-it-will-not-sit-idly-by-240666">cancelled in Hong Kong</a> on Monday morning with airport authorities warning passengers of potential disruption, as pro-democracy protesters kick off a city-wide strike.&nbsp;

At least 105 flights were listed as cancelled on the airport's departure page on Monday morning.

Peak-hour morning train travel and international flights in Hong Kong were thrown into chaos as pro-democracy protesters launched an attempted city-wide strike to ramp up pressure on the financial hub's embattled leaders.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/9th-straight-weekend-of-pro-democracy-protests-in-hong-kong-240656/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Activists descended on key subway stations during the morning rush hour, deliberately keeping open doors to stop trains departing, causing long queues and triggering occasional scuffles between angry commuters and protesters.&nbsp;

When contacted, an airport spokesman did not give any reason for the cancellations but said passengers should check to see if their flight was departing.&nbsp;

"The Airport Authority advises passengers to check with their airlines for the latest flight information, and to proceed to the airport only when their seats and flight time have been confirmed," the airport said in a statement.&nbsp;

The office of city leader Carrie Lam -- who has kept a low public profile as the protests have escalated -- announced she would hold a press conference later Monday morning.&nbsp;

Over the weekend riot police fired tear gas at protesters in multiple districts throughout Saturday and Sunday night.

The largely leaderless protest movement uses social messaging apps to coordinate.

At a press conference on Saturday, strike organisers -- many hiding their identities behind masks -- said 14,000 people from more than 20 sectors had committed to civic action on Monday.

People from all walks of life indicated plans online to either strike or phone in sick on Monday -- from civil servants and social workers, to flight attendants, pilots, bus drivers and even employees of the city's Disneyland.

More than 100 flights were cancelled in Hong Kong on Monday morning with airport authorities warning passengers of potential disruption, as pro-democracy protesters kick off a city-wide strike.

More than 100 flights were cancelled in Hong Kong on Monday morning with airport authorities warning passengers of potential disruption, as pro-democracy protesters kick off a city-wide strike. At least 105 flights were listed as cancelled on the airport's departure page on Monday morning. Peak-hour morning train travel and international flights in Hong Kong were thrown into chaos as pro-democracy protesters launched an attempted city-wide strike to ramp up pressure on the financial hub's embattled leaders. Activists descended on key subway stations during the morning rush hour, deliberately keeping open doors to stop trains departing, causing long queues and triggering occasional scuffles between angry commuters and protesters. When contacted, an airport spokesman did not give any reason for the cancellations but said passengers should check to see if their flight was departing. "The Airport Authority advises passengers to check with their airlines for the latest flight information, and to proceed to the airport only when their seats and flight time have been confirmed," the airport said in a statement. The office of city leader Carrie Lam -- who has kept a low public profile as the protests have escalated -- announced she would hold a press conference later Monday morning. Over the weekend riot police fired tear gas at protesters in multiple districts throughout Saturday and Sunday night. The largely leaderless protest movement uses social messaging apps to coordinate. At a press conference on Saturday, strike organisers -- many hiding their identities behind masks -- said 14,000 people from more than 20 sectors had committed to civic action on Monday. People from all walks of life indicated plans online to either strike or phone in sick on Monday -- from civil servants and social workers, to flight attendants, pilots, bus drivers and even employees of the city's Disneyland.

Over 100 flights cancelled as Hong Kong protesters launch city-wide strike

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;police fired multiple tear gas rounds on Saturday night in confrontations with black-clad activists in the city's Kowloon area, as the Chinese-controlled territory was again <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-fire-tear-gas-at-protesters-in-tourist-district-240476">rocked by anti-government protests</a>.

Police had kept out of sight during the afternoon as tens of thousands of protesters marched through Mong Kok, usually a busy shopping district. But they charged onto the streets after 9 pm (1300 GMT), with hundreds of officers in riot gear pushing back crowds who jeered them.

At around midnight in Wong Tai Sin, a residential area, protesters hurled umbrellas and other objects at police, who responded with pepper spray and then tear gas.

Throughout the evening in Kowloon, police confronted protesters who retreated and regrouped. Some were detained.

Protests against a proposed bill allowing people to be extradited to stand trial in mainland China have grown increasingly violent since June, with police accused of excessive force and failing to protect protesters from suspected gang attacks.

On Saturday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-seize-roads-in-defiance-of-china-warnings-240463">protesters set fires in the streets</a>, outside a police station and in rubbish bins, and blocked the entrance to the Cross-Harbour Tunnel, cutting a major artery linking&nbsp;Hong Kong&nbsp;island and the Kowloon peninsula.

"I've never seen anything like this. The protesters are right, but they shouldn't be violent," said Ray, 57, a retired hotel worker who came from his flat on a side street near where police and protesters were in a stand-off.

"The government should listen to the people and what they need," he said.

In a statement issued after midnight, the&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;government said it "strongly condemns the radical protesters."

After the afternoon march, protesters had dispersed to different parts of Kowloon, setting up barriers across busy streets to block traffic.&nbsp;

Many carried hiking sticks and some held homemade shields.

Protesters, many masked and wearing helmets and goggles, have adopted increasingly sophisticated tactics.

"We don't stay in the same place. We are using hit-and-run tactics," said a construction worker in Mong Kok who called himself "Water".

"If the police are too strong, we will leave. They are a rock, so we must be like water," he added, echoing a refrain of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;martial arts legend Bruce Lee that has been taken up by activists.

Organizers said 120,000 people joined the rally. Police said 42,000 people had joined the march at its peak.

Shuttered shops

In the Nathan Road area, normally packed on a Saturday, shops were shuttered, including 7-11 convenience stores, jewellery chain Chow Tai Fook and watch brands Rolex and Tudor.

The main entrance to the landmark Peninsula Hotel was closed.

Protesters -- many wearing yellow or white hard hats -- chanted "age of revolution!" and "Hong&nbsp;Kongers, add oil!" -- a popular exhortation in Cantonese.

Earlier, marchers carried posters showing protesters tending to a young child, with the words "protect the future". The crowd was mostly young, but also included families and older people. Some young couples held hands.

Police supporters

At a separate afternoon rally in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;island's Victoria Park, thousands of people, mostly wearing white, with many waving&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;and Chinese flags, shouted slogans in support of the police.

Pro-Beijing lawmaker Junius Ho was greeted with strong applause. 
"We are the real&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;people who are not the same as those black-shirted thugs. We don't need a so-called 'HK revolution', we only need to do our best, which is enough," he told the crowd.

Sylvia Lam, 61, who described herself as a housewife, said she had turned up at the pro-police rally to oppose violence.

"I feel extremely uncomfortable when every time I watch TV, the scenes are so radical," she said. "Young people should stop and think, don't become someone's political tools, be rational please."

The organiser estimated the size of the Victoria Park crowd as 90,000, while the police said it was 26,000 at its peak.

More protests planned

The protests against the extradition bill have become the most serious political crisis in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;since it returned to Chinese rule 22 years ago after being governed by Britain.

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;has been allowed to retain extensive freedoms, such as an independent judiciary, but many residents see as the latest step in a relentless march towards mainland control.

The protests also mark the greatest popular challenge to Chinese leader Xi Jinping since he took office in 2012.

He is already grappling with an escalating trade war with the United States and a slowing economy. This is an especially sensitive year for China's Communist Party leadership, which will mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic on October 1.

Further anti-government protests were scheduled in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;for Sunday, with activists calling for a mass strike on Monday.

Months of demonstrations are taking a growing toll on the city's economy, as local shoppers and tourists avoid parts of one of the world's most famous shopping destinations.

On Friday evening, thousands of civil servants defied a warning from authorities to remain politically neutral and joined the anti-government protests for the first time.

In Washington on Friday, a bipartisan group of US lawmakers called on the Trump administration to halt future sales of munitions and crowd-control equipment to&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's police force, which has been accused of using excessive force against protesters. 
&nbsp;

Hong Kong police fired multiple tear gas rounds on Saturday night in confrontations with black-clad activists in the city's Kowloon area, as the Chinese-controlled territory was again rocked by anti-government protests.

Hong Kong police fired multiple tear gas rounds on Saturday night in confrontations with black-clad activists in the city's Kowloon area, as the Chinese-controlled territory was again rocked by anti-government protests. Police had kept out of sight during the afternoon as tens of thousands of protesters marched through Mong Kok, usually a busy shopping district. But they charged onto the streets after 9 pm (1300 GMT), with hundreds of officers in riot gear pushing back crowds who jeered them. At around midnight in Wong Tai Sin, a residential area, protesters hurled umbrellas and other objects at police, who responded with pepper spray and then tear gas. Throughout the evening in Kowloon, police confronted protesters who retreated and regrouped. Some were detained. Protests against a proposed bill allowing people to be extradited to stand trial in mainland China have grown increasingly violent since June, with police accused of excessive force and failing to protect protesters from suspected gang attacks. On Saturday, protesters set fires in the streets, outside a police station and in rubbish bins, and blocked the entrance to the Cross-Harbour Tunnel, cutting a major artery linking Hong Kong island and the Kowloon peninsula. "I've never seen anything like this. The protesters are right, but they shouldn't be violent," said Ray, 57, a retired hotel worker who came from his flat on a side street near where police and protesters were in a stand-off. "The government should listen to the people and what they need," he said. In a statement issued after midnight, the Hong Kong government said it "strongly condemns the radical protesters." After the afternoon march, protesters had dispersed to different parts of Kowloon, setting up barriers across busy streets to block traffic. Many carried hiking sticks and some held homemade shields. Protesters, many masked and wearing helmets and goggles, have adopted increasingly sophisticated tactics. "We don't stay in the same place. We are using hit-and-run tactics," said a construction worker in Mong Kok who called himself "Water". "If the police are too strong, we will leave. They are a rock, so we must be like water," he added, echoing a refrain of Hong Kong martial arts legend Bruce Lee that has been taken up by activists. Organizers said 120,000 people joined the rally. Police said 42,000 people had joined the march at its peak. Shuttered shops In the Nathan Road area, normally packed on a Saturday, shops were shuttered, including 7-11 convenience stores, jewellery chain Chow Tai Fook and watch brands Rolex and Tudor. The main entrance to the landmark Peninsula Hotel was closed. Protesters -- many wearing yellow or white hard hats -- chanted "age of revolution!" and "Hong Kongers, add oil!" -- a popular exhortation in Cantonese. Earlier, marchers carried posters showing protesters tending to a young child, with the words "protect the future". The crowd was mostly young, but also included families and older people. Some young couples held hands. Police supporters At a separate afternoon rally in Hong Kong island's Victoria Park, thousands of people, mostly wearing white, with many waving Hong Kong and Chinese flags, shouted slogans in support of the police. Pro-Beijing lawmaker Junius Ho was greeted with strong applause. "We are the real Hong Kong people who are not the same as those black-shirted thugs. We don't need a so-called 'HK revolution', we only need to do our best, which is enough," he told the crowd. Sylvia Lam, 61, who described herself as a housewife, said she had turned up at the pro-police rally to oppose violence. "I feel extremely uncomfortable when every time I watch TV, the scenes are so radical," she said. "Young people should stop and think, don't become someone's political tools, be rational please." The organiser estimated the size of the Victoria Park crowd as 90,000, while the police said it was 26,000 at its peak. More protests planned The protests against the extradition bill have become the most serious political crisis in Hong Kong since it returned to Chinese rule 22 years ago after being governed by Britain. Hong Kong has been allowed to retain extensive freedoms, such as an independent judiciary, but many residents see as the latest step in a relentless march towards mainland control. The protests also mark the greatest popular challenge to Chinese leader Xi Jinping since he took office in 2012. He is already grappling with an escalating trade war with the United States and a slowing economy. This is an especially sensitive year for China's Communist Party leadership, which will mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic on October 1. Further anti-government protests were scheduled in Hong Kong for Sunday, with activists calling for a mass strike on Monday. Months of demonstrations are taking a growing toll on the city's economy, as local shoppers and tourists avoid parts of one of the world's most famous shopping destinations. On Friday evening, thousands of civil servants defied a warning from authorities to remain politically neutral and joined the anti-government protests for the first time. In Washington on Friday, a bipartisan group of US lawmakers called on the Trump administration to halt future sales of munitions and crowd-control equipment to Hong Kong's police force, which has been accused of using excessive force against protesters.

Hong Kong police fire tear gas as city is again roiled by protests

carrie-lam

Carrie Lam, News on Carrie Lam, stories on Carrie Lam, articles on Carrie Lam, Carrie Lam stories at Wion, Carrie Lam news, Carrie Lam latest news

carrie lam