The transformation of Hong Kong in five charts - see pics

State media Xinhua News Agency reported on Saturday that Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit Hong Kong in his first known visit outside mainland China since 2020.

During this visit, he will attend a ceremony in Hong Kong celebrating 25 years of the city's handover to China and the inauguration of the next Hong Kong administration.

Replacing Carrie Lam, John Lee will become the city's new leader on July 1 and it is customary for Chinese leaders to travel to the city for key handover anniversary dates.

<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/ahead-of-25th-anniversary-hong-kongs-handover-to-china-through-key-political-moments-491379/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In 2017, Jinping had visited Hong Kong to swear in city leader Carrie Lam but experts questioned whether Xi would risk travelling to the city amid COVID-19 outbreaks in both China and Hong had.

In line with China's sovereign interests, Lee has pledged to maintain a firm grip on the city under a national security law.

In 2019, the former top policeman turned civil servant oversaw the city's security policies during mass pro-democracy protests.

After 156 years of British colonial rule, Hong Kong was handed over to China on July 1.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1&lt;/div">&amp;times;</iframe></div>

&nbsp;
</div>

State media Xinhua News Agency reported on Saturday that Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit Hong Kong in his first known visit outside mainland China since 2020.

State media Xinhua News Agency reported on Saturday that Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit Hong Kong in his first known visit outside mainland China since 2020. During this visit, he will attend a ceremony in Hong Kong celebrating 25 years of the city's handover to China and the inauguration of the next Hong Kong administration. Replacing Carrie Lam, John Lee will become the city's new leader on July 1 and it is customary for Chinese leaders to travel to the city for key handover anniversary dates. × In 2017, Jinping had visited Hong Kong to swear in city leader Carrie Lam but experts questioned whether Xi would risk travelling to the city amid COVID-19 outbreaks in both China and Hong had. In line with China's sovereign interests, Lee has pledged to maintain a firm grip on the city under a national security law. In 2019, the former top policeman turned civil servant oversaw the city's security policies during mass pro-democracy protests. After 156 years of British colonial rule, Hong Kong was handed over to China on July 1. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Xi Jinping to visit Hong Kong in his first known trip outside mainland China since 2020

Purging signs of the colonial past, Hong Kong's police will drop British-era foot drills on the handover anniversary.

After 156 years of British colonial rule, Hong Kong was returned to China in 1997 with the promise of 50 years of autonomy. Now, to boost patriotism, the major financial hub's police will adopt 'goose step' marching.

The Hong Kong Police Force said in a statement to Bloomberg News, “To promote patriotism and enhance the awareness of national identity, the Hong Kong Police Force will fully adopt Chinese foot drills from July 1.”

<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/ahead-of-25th-anniversary-hong-kongs-handover-to-china-through-key-political-moments-491379/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The announcement comes after the official Xinhua News Agency reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping will participate in the celebrations of the 25th anniversary of the return of Hong Kong to China.

During anniversary celebrations, which is one of the highest-profile political events in a year, the inauguration of Hong Kong’s government, led by newly appointed Chief Executive John Lee, will also take place.

Xi, who also is the general secretary of the ruling Communist Party, is already the most powerful Chinese leader since at least the 1980s and wants to be seen as leading a “national rejuvenation” amid a military buildup and more assertive policy abroad.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/whats-changed-and-what-has-remained-since-hong-kong-was-returned-to-china-492548" hreflang="en">What's changed and what has remained since Hong Kong was returned to China</a> 
&nbsp; 
Jinping, who is preparing for an expected third five-year term as head of the ruling Communist Party, has not made a trip outside the Chinese mainland since the start of the coronavirus pandemic two and a half years ago.

After a flood of cases threatened to overwhelm its hospitals, Hong Kong faces a renewed rise in coronavirus infections.

In 2019, the city's residents marched in the streets to fight for liberty and justice after China's introduced the Hong Kong national security bill in order to crack down on dissent.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Purging signs of the colonial past, Hong Kong's police will drop British-era foot drills on the handover anniversary. After 156 years of British colonial rule, Hong Kong was returned to China in 1997 with the promise of 50 years of autonomy.

Purging signs of the colonial past, Hong Kong's police will drop British-era foot drills on the handover anniversary. After 156 years of British colonial rule, Hong Kong was returned to China in 1997 with the promise of 50 years of autonomy. Now, to boost patriotism, the major financial hub's police will adopt 'goose step' marching. The Hong Kong Police Force said in a statement to Bloomberg News, “To promote patriotism and enhance the awareness of national identity, the Hong Kong Police Force will fully adopt Chinese foot drills from July 1.” × The announcement comes after the official Xinhua News Agency reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping will participate in the celebrations of the 25th anniversary of the return of Hong Kong to China. During anniversary celebrations, which is one of the highest-profile political events in a year, the inauguration of Hong Kong’s government, led by newly appointed Chief Executive John Lee, will also take place. Xi, who also is the general secretary of the ruling Communist Party, is already the most powerful Chinese leader since at least the 1980s and wants to be seen as leading a “national rejuvenation” amid a military buildup and more assertive policy abroad. Also see | What's changed and what has remained since Hong Kong was returned to China Jinping, who is preparing for an expected third five-year term as head of the ruling Communist Party, has not made a trip outside the Chinese mainland since the start of the coronavirus pandemic two and a half years ago. After a flood of cases threatened to overwhelm its hospitals, Hong Kong faces a renewed rise in coronavirus infections. In 2019, the city's residents marched in the streets to fight for liberty and justice after China's introduced the Hong Kong national security bill in order to crack down on dissent. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Hong Kong police to drop British-era foot drills on handover anniversary

What's changed and what has remained since Hong Kong was returned to China

Mystery over whether the financially struggling tourist attraction, Hong Kong's Jumbo Floating Restaurant, had actually sunk while being towed away from the city last week deepened on Friday after its owner stirred confusion, as reported y AFP.

On Monday Aberdeen Restaurant Enterprises released a statement saying the vessel had capsized on Sunday near the Paracel Islands in the South China Sea after it "encountered adverse conditions" and began to take on water.

"The water depth at the scene is over 1,000 metres, making it extremely difficult to carry out salvage works," it added.

On Thursday night, Hong Kong's Marine Department put out a statement saying it had only learnt of the incident from media reports and had immediately requested a report from the company.

The department said the report was delivered on Thursday, saying the restaurant had capsized but that "at present, both Jumbo and the tugboat are still in the waters off Xisha islands," using the Chinese name for the Paracels.

Hours later an AFP journalist was contacted by a spokesman representing the restaurant who said the company had always used the word "capsized" not "sank".

Asked directly if the boat had sunk, he said again the statement had said "capsized", and did not explain why it had referred to the depth of the water when mentioning salvage.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-parliament-voiced-support-for-bill-enshrining-right-to-abortion-in-constitution-491809">&nbsp;French parliament voiced support for bill enshrining right to abortion in constitution</a>

The South China Morning Post reported a similar conversation with a spokeswoman for the company, in which they insisted the boat had "capsized", not "sank", but refused to clarify whether it was still afloat.

The newspaper said it had been told by the Marine Department that the company might have breached local regulations if it had not notified the authorities of a sinking incident within 24 hours.

Widespread reporting in both local and international media at the beginning of the week that Jumbo had sunk was not contradicted by the company.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Mystery over whether the financially struggling tourist attraction, Hong Kong's Jumbo Floating Restaurant, had actually sunk while being towed away from the city last week deepened on Friday after its owner stirred confusion, as reported y AFP.

Mystery over whether the financially struggling tourist attraction, Hong Kong's Jumbo Floating Restaurant, had actually sunk while being towed away from the city last week deepened on Friday after its owner stirred confusion, as reported y AFP. On Monday Aberdeen Restaurant Enterprises released a statement saying the vessel had capsized on Sunday near the Paracel Islands in the South China Sea after it "encountered adverse conditions" and began to take on water. "The water depth at the scene is over 1,000 metres, making it extremely difficult to carry out salvage works," it added. On Thursday night, Hong Kong's Marine Department put out a statement saying it had only learnt of the incident from media reports and had immediately requested a report from the company. The department said the report was delivered on Thursday, saying the restaurant had capsized but that "at present, both Jumbo and the tugboat are still in the waters off Xisha islands," using the Chinese name for the Paracels. Hours later an AFP journalist was contacted by a spokesman representing the restaurant who said the company had always used the word "capsized" not "sank". Asked directly if the boat had sunk, he said again the statement had said "capsized", and did not explain why it had referred to the depth of the water when mentioning salvage. Also Read: French parliament voiced support for bill enshrining right to abortion in constitution The South China Morning Post reported a similar conversation with a spokeswoman for the company, in which they insisted the boat had "capsized", not "sank", but refused to clarify whether it was still afloat. The newspaper said it had been told by the Marine Department that the company might have breached local regulations if it had not notified the authorities of a sinking incident within 24 hours. Widespread reporting in both local and international media at the beginning of the week that Jumbo had sunk was not contradicted by the company. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sinking of Hong Kong's jumbo floating restaurant engulfed in mystery

A new report has revealed the status of human rights in Hong Kong. As China's communist government deepens its control of the semi-autonomous region, the recently released human rights ranking reports show that Hong Kong on some indicators is now at par with Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;According to The Guardian, rankings from the Human Rights Measurement Initiative (HRMI) have highlighted the widening gap between Hong Kong's good quality of life scores and its civil and political rights scores, which are among some of the lowest scores in the world.&nbsp;Following a crackdown on the 2019 pro-democracy demonstrations and the introduction of the national security law in 2020, Hong Kong's political rights drastically declined. It fell even lower in 2021, slipping to second-to-last in terms of empowerment rights, behind Vietnam and equal to Saudi Arabia's margin of error.

Watch |&nbsp;Ahead of 25th anniversary, Hong Kong’s handover to China through key political moments

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ahead-of-25th-anniversary-hong-kongs-handover-to-china-through-key-political-moments-491379/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

With average scores of 2.5, the indicators for freedom of association, assembly, and speech as well as participation in governance were all rated as "very bad." In 2019, the results were 4 or higher.

The study revealed that Hong Kong's right to be free from arbitrary detainment fell into the lowest "very bad" category with a score of 3.5 out of 10. With a score of 5.5, the likelihood of being subjected to torture and other cruel treatment was similarly "bad".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-chinese-textbooks-say-hong-kong-was-not-a-british-colony-report-488096">New Chinese textbooks say Hong Kong was not a British colony: Report</a>

In comparison to suffrage, which decreased from 4 to 2.4 over the same time period, freedom of expression fell from 4.7 in 2019 to 2.7 in 2021.

Thalia Kehoe Rowden, a spokesperson for the HRMI, stated that "what we see here is Hong Kong’s scores are converging downwards towards [last placed] China’s score."

"Hong Kong's empowerment scores have fallen dramatically so that they are nearly the same as China's," Dr K. Chad Clay, an HRMI co-founder told Voice of America (VOA).

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

A new report has revealed the status of human rights in Hong Kong. As China's communist government deepens its control of the semi-autonomous region, the recently released human rights ranking reports show that Hong Kong on some indicators is now at par with Saudi Arabia.

A new report has revealed the status of human rights in Hong Kong. As China's communist government deepens its control of the semi-autonomous region, the recently released human rights ranking reports show that Hong Kong on some indicators is now at par with Saudi Arabia. According to The Guardian, rankings from the Human Rights Measurement Initiative (HRMI) have highlighted the widening gap between Hong Kong's good quality of life scores and its civil and political rights scores, which are among some of the lowest scores in the world. Following a crackdown on the 2019 pro-democracy demonstrations and the introduction of the national security law in 2020, Hong Kong's political rights drastically declined. It fell even lower in 2021, slipping to second-to-last in terms of empowerment rights, behind Vietnam and equal to Saudi Arabia's margin of error. Watch | Ahead of 25th anniversary, Hong Kong’s handover to China through key political moments With average scores of 2.5, the indicators for freedom of association, assembly, and speech as well as participation in governance were all rated as "very bad." In 2019, the results were 4 or higher. The study revealed that Hong Kong's right to be free from arbitrary detainment fell into the lowest "very bad" category with a score of 3.5 out of 10. With a score of 5.5, the likelihood of being subjected to torture and other cruel treatment was similarly "bad". Also read | New Chinese textbooks say Hong Kong was not a British colony: Report In comparison to suffrage, which decreased from 4 to 2.4 over the same time period, freedom of expression fell from 4.7 in 2019 to 2.7 in 2021. Thalia Kehoe Rowden, a spokesperson for the HRMI, stated that "what we see here is Hong Kong’s scores are converging downwards towards [last placed] China’s score." "Hong Kong's empowerment scores have fallen dramatically so that they are nearly the same as China's," Dr K. Chad Clay, an HRMI co-founder told Voice of America (VOA). (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

New report shows the dramatic fall of human rights in Hong Kong

Ahead of Hong Kong's 25th anniversary, here are some key political moments in the city. Hong Kong was handed over to China in 1997 which ended 155 years of British rule.

Ahead of 25th anniversary, Hong Kong’s handover to China through key political moments

Ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's potential visit and 25the anniversary of the British handover, Hong Kong’s national security police arrested five people for sedition charges.

On Friday, a Hong Kong court ordered two men remanded in custody pending trial over “seditious” posts on social media platforms LIHKG and Instagram respectively. Both were arrested a day before for posting “seditious content” on these online forums. The court found their content had the “intention of inciting hatred or contempt against the Central Government and the Hong Kong government”, according to the Hong Kong Free Press newspaper.

On Wednesday, police made three arrests in relation to a previous case involving a martial arts coach accused of running an armed separatist movement.

Officers arrested three men aged between 39 and 50 for sedition and said they seized “a large number of offensive weapons” including machetes, knives and swords from their residences.

This spate of arrests comes as the Hong Kong authorities have been on high alert as the city prepares for the July 1 ceremony, when a new government will be sworn in, and the former colony marks 25 years since its handover.

While past Chinese leaders tended to visit Hong Kong on key anniversaries, a potential visit by Xi next week has been complicated by the country’s zero-tolerance policy for coronavirus infection risks.

Sedition is outlawed in Hong Kong under the Crimes Ordinance which was last amended in the 1970s, when the city was under British colonial rule.

It is not part of the Beijing-imposed national security law that came into force on June 30, 2020, which targets secession, subversion, collusion with foreign forces and terrorist acts.

However, the courts apply a stricter bail threshold on those accused of sedition where they decide whether there are sufficient grounds for believing that the suspect would not continue to commit acts endangering national security.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's potential visit and 25the anniversary of the British handover, Hong Kong’s national security police arrested five people for sedition charges.

Ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's potential visit and 25the anniversary of the British handover, Hong Kong’s national security police arrested five people for sedition charges. On Friday, a Hong Kong court ordered two men remanded in custody pending trial over “seditious” posts on social media platforms LIHKG and Instagram respectively. Both were arrested a day before for posting “seditious content” on these online forums. The court found their content had the “intention of inciting hatred or contempt against the Central Government and the Hong Kong government”, according to the Hong Kong Free Press newspaper. On Wednesday, police made three arrests in relation to a previous case involving a martial arts coach accused of running an armed separatist movement. Officers arrested three men aged between 39 and 50 for sedition and said they seized “a large number of offensive weapons” including machetes, knives and swords from their residences. This spate of arrests comes as the Hong Kong authorities have been on high alert as the city prepares for the July 1 ceremony, when a new government will be sworn in, and the former colony marks 25 years since its handover. While past Chinese leaders tended to visit Hong Kong on key anniversaries, a potential visit by Xi next week has been complicated by the country’s zero-tolerance policy for coronavirus infection risks. Sedition is outlawed in Hong Kong under the Crimes Ordinance which was last amended in the 1970s, when the city was under British colonial rule. It is not part of the Beijing-imposed national security law that came into force on June 30, 2020, which targets secession, subversion, collusion with foreign forces and terrorist acts. However, the courts apply a stricter bail threshold on those accused of sedition where they decide whether there are sufficient grounds for believing that the suspect would not continue to commit acts endangering national security. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ahead of 25th anniversary of British handover, Hong Kong arrests 5 over sedition charges

Hong Kong ratings on human rights have dropped further. This has brought it on par with Saudi Arabia in some indicators. Its fall has also made it come closer to China in the list.

Human Rights Measurement Initiative (HRMI) has reported these rankings. The report has also noted deepening divide between ratings China has received.&nbsp;

As per the report, China has high indicators in quality of life but some of the world's lowest in civil and political rights.

The HRMI is in its fifth year. It conducts national surveys and gives rankings to the countries.

The crackdown on pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong (2019) has resulted in sweeping changes in political landscape of the city. China has tightened its grip on Hong Kong and passed laws like National Security law that are often used to curtail freedoms. Since the crackdown and tightening of the Chinese grip, many of Hong Kong's pro-democracy politicians have left the country.

Pro-democracy media outlets have also been shut down under government pressure. Jimmy Lai, a media tycoon who ran the now-defunct Apple Daily, is in jail.

“What we see here is Hong Kong’s scores are converging downwards towards [last placed] China’s score,” said Thalia Kehoe Rowden, a spokesperson for the HRMI. She was quoted by The Guardian.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Hong Kong ratings on human rights have dropped further. This has brought it on par with Saudi Arabia in some indicators. Its fall has also made it come closer to China in the list.

Hong Kong ratings on human rights have dropped further. This has brought it on par with Saudi Arabia in some indicators. Its fall has also made it come closer to China in the list. Human Rights Measurement Initiative (HRMI) has reported these rankings. The report has also noted deepening divide between ratings China has received. As per the report, China has high indicators in quality of life but some of the world's lowest in civil and political rights. The HRMI is in its fifth year. It conducts national surveys and gives rankings to the countries. The crackdown on pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong (2019) has resulted in sweeping changes in political landscape of the city. China has tightened its grip on Hong Kong and passed laws like National Security law that are often used to curtail freedoms. Since the crackdown and tightening of the Chinese grip, many of Hong Kong's pro-democracy politicians have left the country. Pro-democracy media outlets have also been shut down under government pressure. Jimmy Lai, a media tycoon who ran the now-defunct Apple Daily, is in jail. “What we see here is Hong Kong’s scores are converging downwards towards [last placed] China’s score,” said Thalia Kehoe Rowden, a spokesperson for the HRMI. She was quoted by The Guardian. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Hong Kong drops further in human rights ratings

A businessman has opened a two-storey building in Hong Kong with British colonial collection. Museum tells the story of Hong Kong's colonial past and the museum was opened in 2021.

'Good or bad, it's Hong Kong's history,' says the Museum Victoria City's founder

A famous floating restaurant in Hong Kong has sunk in the South China Sea. It was told that Jumbo Floating Restaurant capsized afte encountering "adverse conditions" in the sea.

Aberdeen Restaurant Enterprises said on Twitter that no crew members were injured.

"When passing Xisha Islands in the South China Sea, the vessel encountered adverse conditions which water soon entered before it began to tip."

"Despite the efforts of the towing company responsible for the trip to rescue the vessel, unfortunately, it capsized on Sunday." The company added it was "very saddened" by this incident.

It said marine engineers had been hired to inspect the floating restaurant and install hoardings on the vessel before the trip, and that "all relevant approvals" had been obtained.

The floating hotel resembled a Chinese imperial palace. Global celebrities and personalities like Tom Cruise and Queen Elizabeth the Second have dined there.

Th floating hotel had financial woes for decades. It was still costing millions in maintenance fees every year and around a dozen businesses and organisations had declined an invitation to take it over at no charge,

The restaurant, which served Cantonese cuisine since 1976. Prior to its sinking, the hotel was towed away by tugboats.

Coronavirus pandemic had hit business hard. In 2020, the pandemic year, Jumbo ceased its operations. After months of COVID-19 restrictions, its parent company was unable to find a new owner and lacked the funds to maintain it.

(With inputs from&nbsp;agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

A famous floating restaurant in Hong Kong has sunk in the South China Sea. It was told that Jumbo Floating Restaurant capsized afte encountering "adverse conditions" in the sea.

A famous floating restaurant in Hong Kong has sunk in the South China Sea. It was told that Jumbo Floating Restaurant capsized afte encountering "adverse conditions" in the sea. Aberdeen Restaurant Enterprises said on Twitter that no crew members were injured. "When passing Xisha Islands in the South China Sea, the vessel encountered adverse conditions which water soon entered before it began to tip." "Despite the efforts of the towing company responsible for the trip to rescue the vessel, unfortunately, it capsized on Sunday." The company added it was "very saddened" by this incident. It said marine engineers had been hired to inspect the floating restaurant and install hoardings on the vessel before the trip, and that "all relevant approvals" had been obtained. The floating hotel resembled a Chinese imperial palace. Global celebrities and personalities like Tom Cruise and Queen Elizabeth the Second have dined there. Th floating hotel had financial woes for decades. It was still costing millions in maintenance fees every year and around a dozen businesses and organisations had declined an invitation to take it over at no charge, The restaurant, which served Cantonese cuisine since 1976. Prior to its sinking, the hotel was towed away by tugboats. Coronavirus pandemic had hit business hard. In 2020, the pandemic year, Jumbo ceased its operations. After months of COVID-19 restrictions, its parent company was unable to find a new owner and lacked the funds to maintain it. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iconic floating hotel in Hong Kong sinks in South China Sea

In Pics | Hong Kong: Iconic floating hotel sinks at sea

Why is China denying Hong Kong was a UK colony?

Multiple media outlets and independent newspapers in Hong Kong have been barred from attending the inauguration of incoming leader John Lee. They also won't be able to cover other July 1 events celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Handover, Hong Kong Free Press (HKFP) reported. The decision has been taken by authorities due to coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic restrictions and security reasons.&nbsp;

HKFP revealed that Japan's Nikkei, Asahi Shimbun and Kyodo News were not invited. Taiwan's CTV, United States' Getty Images, Hong Kong's InMedia, PSHK, TMHK and HKFP were not invited. Apart from these, the European Pressphoto Agency did not receive an invite.&nbsp;

Lee will assume office on July 1. The day coincides with the 25th anniversary of Hong Kong's transfer from British to Chinese rule and the halfway point of the "One Country, Two Systems" political model.&nbsp;

If reports are to be believed, Chinese President Xi Jinping might attend the festivities. Media reports said that the hotels around Wan Chai's exhibition centre are apparently booked out by the government. In July 2017, Xi attended the swearing-in of Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam as part of a three-day trip.&nbsp;

Lee was chosen as the next chief in early May. The 64-year-old is a former security chief and he oversaw the crackdown on Hong Kong's democracy movement. He was the sole candidate in the race and received 99 per cent of the vote.&nbsp;

HKFP stated that the Information Services Department (ISD) invited select broadcasters to nominate 20 reporters to attend. Meanwhile, other news outlets were able to send ten journalists.&nbsp;

A spokesperson told HKFP, "The Government has adopted suitable media arrangements after taking into consideration the latest epidemic situation, security requirements and venue constraints, etc." "These factors pose impact on the number of media organisations being invited to apply for accreditation," they added.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Multiple media outlets and independent newspapers in Hong Kong have been barred from attending the inauguration of incoming leader John Lee. They also won't be able to cover other July 1 events celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Handover, Hong Kong Free Press (HKFP) reported.

Multiple media outlets and independent newspapers in Hong Kong have been barred from attending the inauguration of incoming leader John Lee. They also won't be able to cover other July 1 events celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Handover, Hong Kong Free Press (HKFP) reported. The decision has been taken by authorities due to coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic restrictions and security reasons. HKFP revealed that Japan's Nikkei, Asahi Shimbun and Kyodo News were not invited. Taiwan's CTV, United States' Getty Images, Hong Kong's InMedia, PSHK, TMHK and HKFP were not invited. Apart from these, the European Pressphoto Agency did not receive an invite. Lee will assume office on July 1. The day coincides with the 25th anniversary of Hong Kong's transfer from British to Chinese rule and the halfway point of the "One Country, Two Systems" political model. If reports are to be believed, Chinese President Xi Jinping might attend the festivities. Media reports said that the hotels around Wan Chai's exhibition centre are apparently booked out by the government. In July 2017, Xi attended the swearing-in of Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam as part of a three-day trip. Lee was chosen as the next chief in early May. The 64-year-old is a former security chief and he oversaw the crackdown on Hong Kong's democracy movement. He was the sole candidate in the race and received 99 per cent of the vote. HKFP stated that the Information Services Department (ISD) invited select broadcasters to nominate 20 reporters to attend. Meanwhile, other news outlets were able to send ten journalists. A spokesperson told HKFP, "The Government has adopted suitable media arrangements after taking into consideration the latest epidemic situation, security requirements and venue constraints, etc." "These factors pose impact on the number of media organisations being invited to apply for accreditation," they added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hong Kong: Multiple media outlets barred from attending swearing-in of new chief executive

Hong Kong’s iconic Jumbo Floating Restaurant has been a major tourist attraction for many years. The restaurant, which opened in 1976 and specialised in Cantonese food, was a landmark institution of Hong Kong and over the years, it has played host to famous personalities like Queen Elizabeth and Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise. However, after years of trying to revive the old restaurant, it was finally towed away from the Aberdeen Harbor in Hong Kong on Tuesday. It did not open since closing its doors at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic and although a lot of attempts were made to revive the institution, the owners were unable to find any new investors to reopen the place.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-back-russia-on-sovereignty-and-security-xi-jinping-tells-vladimir-putin-488469" hreflang="en">China to back Russia on 'sovereignty and security', Xi tells Putin</a>

Aberdeen Restaurant Enterprises, the owners of the institution, told media outlets that the cost of running the business was getting higher by the day and it was becoming impossible for them to continue pumping money into the restaurant. The company was spending millions of dollars each year in maintenance and inspection costs, but the revenue earned did not earn them much profits.

“We do not foresee that it can resume business in the immediate future,” the company said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
VIDEO: Hong Kong's Jumbo Floating Restaurant is towed out of the city after years of revitalisation efforts went nowhere <a href="https://t.co/q5Ho3VmAkP">pic.twitter.com/q5Ho3VmAkP</a>
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AFP/status/1536659714183819264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2022</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>

The floating restaurant was towed away with the help of a number of boats with a small crowd of local people who gathered to bid it farewell as according to very onlookers, “an era came to an end”.

Earlier, a number of local politicians have expressed their wish to save the restaurant with government investment but the idea was rejected by Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam.

Hong Kong’s iconic Jumbo Floating Restaurant has been a major tourist attraction for many years. The restaurant, which opened in 1976 and specialised in Cantonese food, was a landmark institution of Hong Kong and over the years, it has played host to famous personalities like Queen Elizabeth and Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise.

Hong Kong’s iconic Jumbo Floating Restaurant has been a major tourist attraction for many years. The restaurant, which opened in 1976 and specialised in Cantonese food, was a landmark institution of Hong Kong and over the years, it has played host to famous personalities like Queen Elizabeth and Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise. However, after years of trying to revive the old restaurant, it was finally towed away from the Aberdeen Harbor in Hong Kong on Tuesday. It did not open since closing its doors at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic and although a lot of attempts were made to revive the institution, the owners were unable to find any new investors to reopen the place. Also read | China to back Russia on 'sovereignty and security', Xi tells Putin Aberdeen Restaurant Enterprises, the owners of the institution, told media outlets that the cost of running the business was getting higher by the day and it was becoming impossible for them to continue pumping money into the restaurant. The company was spending millions of dollars each year in maintenance and inspection costs, but the revenue earned did not earn them much profits. “We do not foresee that it can resume business in the immediate future,” the company said. VIDEO: Hong Kong's Jumbo Floating Restaurant is towed out of the city after years of revitalisation efforts went nowhere pic.twitter.com/q5Ho3VmAkP — AFP News Agency (@AFP) June 14, 2022 × The floating restaurant was towed away with the help of a number of boats with a small crowd of local people who gathered to bid it farewell as according to very onlookers, “an era came to an end”. Earlier, a number of local politicians have expressed their wish to save the restaurant with government investment but the idea was rejected by Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam.

Hong Kong's iconic floating restaurant towed away after operating for 46 years - WATCH

Hong Kong’s famed Jumbo Floating Restaurant was towed away on June 14 after the operators said the business was suffering losses since 2013. People gathered to bid final goodbye to the buoyant behemoth which had opened up in 1976.

Hong Kong’s floating restaurant, popular tourist attraction, towed away

From Shanghai to Paris: Here are world's most expensive cities to live in for rich people

Indian men's football team captain Sunil Chhetri became the joint fifth highest goalscorer in international football history. Chhetri achieved this feat during their AFC Asian Cup Qualifier clash against Hong Kong on Tuesday, where he scored his 84th goal. He has now equalled legendary Real Madrid and Hungarian player Ferenc Puskas goals scoring exploits on the international level.

Earlier in October 2021, Chhetri also surpassed legendary football player Pele`s record of 77 goals.&nbsp;He is now third on the list of active international goalscorers, just behind Portugal`s Cristiano Ronaldo and Argentina`s Lionel Messi. Currently, Ronaldo is the highest goalscorer in international football with 117 goals, while Messi is in the fourth spot with a total of 86 goals. Coming to the clash against Hong Kong, India completed their AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers 2023 campaign in style at the VYBK Stadium in Kolkata as they bagged a massive 4-0 win over Hong Kong in the final game of Group D. Anwar Ali, Sunil Chhetri, Manvir Singh and Ishan Pandita were the goalscorers for the Blue Tigers.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-chhetris-india-qualify-for-asian-cup-before-hong-kong-encounter-as-palestine-oust-philippines-488017">Sunil Chhetri's India qualify for Asian Cup before Hong Kong encounter as Palestine oust Philippines</a>

It was the third consecutive win for Team India in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers. Earlier, they had defeated Cambodia and Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Indian men's football team captain Sunil Chhetri became the joint fifth highest goalscorer in international football history. Chhetri achieved this feat during their AFC Asian Cup Qualifier clash against Hong Kong on Tuesday, where he scored his 84th goal.

Indian men's football team captain Sunil Chhetri became the joint fifth highest goalscorer in international football history. Chhetri achieved this feat during their AFC Asian Cup Qualifier clash against Hong Kong on Tuesday, where he scored his 84th goal. He has now equalled legendary Real Madrid and Hungarian player Ferenc Puskas goals scoring exploits on the international level. Earlier in October 2021, Chhetri also surpassed legendary football player Pele`s record of 77 goals. He is now third on the list of active international goalscorers, just behind Portugal`s Cristiano Ronaldo and Argentina`s Lionel Messi. Currently, Ronaldo is the highest goalscorer in international football with 117 goals, while Messi is in the fourth spot with a total of 86 goals. Coming to the clash against Hong Kong, India completed their AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers 2023 campaign in style at the VYBK Stadium in Kolkata as they bagged a massive 4-0 win over Hong Kong in the final game of Group D. Anwar Ali, Sunil Chhetri, Manvir Singh and Ishan Pandita were the goalscorers for the Blue Tigers. ALSO READ | Sunil Chhetri's India qualify for Asian Cup before Hong Kong encounter as Palestine oust Philippines It was the third consecutive win for Team India in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers. Earlier, they had defeated Cambodia and Afghanistan.

AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers: Sunil Chhetri achieves elite feat as India beat Hong Kong to top Group D

New textbooks of liberal studies in secondary schools in China say that Hong Kong was not a British colony, says a report in South China Morning Post. The textbooks are of revamped curriculum. The reasoning behind such an assertion, as the textbooks reportedly say, is that China had not recognised the unequal treaties through which Hong Kong was ceded to the British.

In addition to this, the book also makes assertions on pro-democracy protests that took place in the year 2019. The textbooks reportedly say that 2019 protests were a threat to China's national security. The books also say that external forces were behind these protests.

The report notes that the textbooks are "still being vetted by" the Education Bureau.

Hong Kong was returned by the UK to China in 1997 under promises from the latter that nature of Hong Kong's government system based on democratic values will be preserved.

Events in last three years have seen China's departure from this promises. The National Security Law has been used to curb many freedoms previously granted to citizens in Hong Kong. The city has seen independent media outlets including the popular and influential Apple Daily, shut down for good. In the run up to such closures, Hong Kong police &nbsp;have been seen swarming to media offices in hundreds.

New textbooks of liberal studies in secondary schools in China say that Hong Kong was not a British colony, says a report in South China Morning Post. The textbooks are of revamped curriculum.

New textbooks of liberal studies in secondary schools in China say that Hong Kong was not a British colony, says a report in South China Morning Post. The textbooks are of revamped curriculum. The reasoning behind such an assertion, as the textbooks reportedly say, is that China had not recognised the unequal treaties through which Hong Kong was ceded to the British. In addition to this, the book also makes assertions on pro-democracy protests that took place in the year 2019. The textbooks reportedly say that 2019 protests were a threat to China's national security. The books also say that external forces were behind these protests. The report notes that the textbooks are "still being vetted by" the Education Bureau. Hong Kong was returned by the UK to China in 1997 under promises from the latter that nature of Hong Kong's government system based on democratic values will be preserved. Events in last three years have seen China's departure from this promises. The National Security Law has been used to curb many freedoms previously granted to citizens in Hong Kong. The city has seen independent media outlets including the popular and influential Apple Daily, shut down for good. In the run up to such closures, Hong Kong police have been seen swarming to media offices in hundreds.

New Chinese textbooks say Hong Kong was not a British colony: Report

Sunil Chhetri-led India will face the Group D table-toppers Hong Kong on Tuesday evening (June 14) in the ongoing AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers. Ahead of the clash, Chhetri &amp; Co. rejoiced as they qualified for the AFC Asian Cup 2023 after Group B toppers&nbsp;Palestine ousted the Philippines in&nbsp;Ulaanbaatar.

However, the match against Hong Kong still holds significance as it would ascertain&nbsp;whether the Indian team&nbsp;will enter the finals as one of the group winners or as one of the runners-up sides. In the head-to-head battle, India lead Hong Kong 7-4 whereas four games have ended in a tie. Thus, Chhetri &amp; Co. will be expected to make it three wins in a row in the qualifiers when they take on the field on Tuesday evening.

Let's take a look at the live streaming details of the India vs Hong Kong game:

Where is India vs Hong Kong match taking place?

The India vs Hong Kong&nbsp;match will be held at Kolkata's iconic&nbsp;Salt Lake Stadium.

What time does India vs Hong Kong match begin?

The India vs Hong Kong&nbsp;encounter will kick off&nbsp;at at 8:30 PM IST&nbsp;on Tuesday (June 14).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-chhetris-india-qualify-for-asian-cup-before-hong-kong-encounter-as-palestine-oust-philippines-488017">Sunil Chhetri's India qualify for Asian Cup before Hong Kong encounter as Palestine oust Philippines</a>

How to watch live coverage of&nbsp;India vs Hong Kong&nbsp;match on TV?

The AFC Asian Cup Qualifier match between India vs Hong Kong&nbsp;will be telecasted on Star Sports 3 in India.

How to watch live coverage of the India vs Hong Kong match&nbsp;on the live streaming?

The AFC Asian Cup Qualifier India vs Hong Kong face-off&nbsp;can be watched online on Disney + Hotstar in India.

Sunil Chhetri-led India will face the Group D table-toppers Hong Kong on Tuesday evening (June 14) in the ongoing AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers. Ahead of the clash, Chhetri & Co.

Sunil Chhetri-led India will face the Group D table-toppers Hong Kong on Tuesday evening (June 14) in the ongoing AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers. Ahead of the clash, Chhetri & Co. rejoiced as they qualified for the AFC Asian Cup 2023 after Group B toppers Palestine ousted the Philippines in Ulaanbaatar. However, the match against Hong Kong still holds significance as it would ascertain whether the Indian team will enter the finals as one of the group winners or as one of the runners-up sides. In the head-to-head battle, India lead Hong Kong 7-4 whereas four games have ended in a tie. Thus, Chhetri & Co. will be expected to make it three wins in a row in the qualifiers when they take on the field on Tuesday evening. Let's take a look at the live streaming details of the India vs Hong Kong game: Where is India vs Hong Kong match taking place? The India vs Hong Kong match will be held at Kolkata's iconic Salt Lake Stadium. What time does India vs Hong Kong match begin? The India vs Hong Kong encounter will kick off at at 8:30 PM IST on Tuesday (June 14). ALSO READ | Sunil Chhetri's India qualify for Asian Cup before Hong Kong encounter as Palestine oust Philippines How to watch live coverage of India vs Hong Kong match on TV? The AFC Asian Cup Qualifier match between India vs Hong Kong will be telecasted on Star Sports 3 in India. How to watch live coverage of the India vs Hong Kong match on the live streaming? The AFC Asian Cup Qualifier India vs Hong Kong face-off can be watched online on Disney + Hotstar in India.

India vs Hong Kong live streaming: When and where to watch AFC Asian Cup Qualifier match in India?

July 1 will mark the 25-year completion of the British handing over the control of Hong Kong to China as well as the first day for John Lee as the city’s new Chief Executive. It has been a custom for top Chinese leadership to attend the swearing-in ceremonies of all Hong Kong Chief Executives and it seems that Chinese President Xi Jinping will be present for this year’s event. Jinping has not left China since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic but with a few weeks to go for Lee’s swearing-in ceremony, a specific incident has given rise to rumours regarding his possible travel to Hong Kong.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-zelensky-says-russias-camps-resemble-nazi-concentration-camps-487844" hreflang="en">Ukraine war: Zelensky says Russia's camps 'resemble Nazi concentration camps'</a>

Parents of students at Wong Cho Bao School – an institution controlled by pro-Beijing Hong Kong Federation of Education Workers (HKFEW) – has asked its students to undergo seven days of hotel quarantine ahead of an unnamed event where they will be greeting a number of dignitaries.

According to AFP, the school will be paying for all the accommodations and according to&nbsp;a notice from school principal Wong Kam-leung, they will not be meeting their parents as well.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cctv-footage-men-mercilessly-beating-women-in-china-sparks-outrage-nine-arrested-487827" hreflang="en">CCTV footage: Men mercilessly beating women in China sparks outrage, nine arrested</a>

The AFP report further stated that the event is described in the notice as a "rare honourable mission" and the hotel quarantine for the students will take place between June 23 and June 30.

Meanwhile, ahead of the swearing-in ceremony, the Hong Kong authorities have planned "closed-loop system" which will be used to isolate around 1000 people including current city leader Carrie Lam. The South China Morning Post also reported that major Chinese leaders will be present.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

(With inputs from agencies)

July 1 will mark the 25-year completion of the British handing over the control of Hong Kong to China as well as the first day for John Lee as the city’s new Chief Executive.

July 1 will mark the 25-year completion of the British handing over the control of Hong Kong to China as well as the first day for John Lee as the city’s new Chief Executive. It has been a custom for top Chinese leadership to attend the swearing-in ceremonies of all Hong Kong Chief Executives and it seems that Chinese President Xi Jinping will be present for this year’s event. Jinping has not left China since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic but with a few weeks to go for Lee’s swearing-in ceremony, a specific incident has given rise to rumours regarding his possible travel to Hong Kong. Also read | Ukraine war: Zelensky says Russia's camps 'resemble Nazi concentration camps' Parents of students at Wong Cho Bao School – an institution controlled by pro-Beijing Hong Kong Federation of Education Workers (HKFEW) – has asked its students to undergo seven days of hotel quarantine ahead of an unnamed event where they will be greeting a number of dignitaries. According to AFP, the school will be paying for all the accommodations and according to a notice from school principal Wong Kam-leung, they will not be meeting their parents as well. Also read | CCTV footage: Men mercilessly beating women in China sparks outrage, nine arrested The AFP report further stated that the event is described in the notice as a "rare honourable mission" and the hotel quarantine for the students will take place between June 23 and June 30. Meanwhile, ahead of the swearing-in ceremony, the Hong Kong authorities have planned "closed-loop system" which will be used to isolate around 1000 people including current city leader Carrie Lam. The South China Morning Post also reported that major Chinese leaders will be present. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong school notice sparks rumours about possible Xi Jinping visit in July

A rule that is usually applied to Hong Kong government officers has been extended to foreigners teaching the English language at government schools where they have been asked to swear an oath of allegiance to the city.

According to AFP news agency, Hong Kong's Education Bureau has issued an order mandating Native-speaking English Teachers (NETs) and advisors working in government-run schools to sign the declaration by June 21 in order to continue working in the upcoming academic year.

The order states that NETs must declare they will bear allegiance to Hong Kong and uphold the Basic Law – the city’s constitutional text – as well as be responsible to the government.

“Neglect, refusal or failure” to sign the declaration would lead to contract termination, authorities said.

The new declaration would “further safeguard and promote the core values that should be upheld by all government employees” and ensure effective governance, a government spokesperson told AFP.

The oath-taking was first introduced in 2020 at government offices in Hong Kong following the gradual rollout of the national security law as a way to fulfil Chinese government demands of loyalty.

A NET teacher told Hong Kong Free Press newspaper that they are "unhappy" with the move as it seeks to treat the foreign teachers “as foreign agents who might instil dangerous ideas into the mind of Hong Kong youngsters.”

NETs are hired on renewable two-year contracts, with monthly salaries starting at around HK$32,000 (US$4,100/£3,300) and can go as high as HK$74,000.

Hong Kong introduced the NET program in 1997 to improve students’ language skills and has gradually made NETs a standard feature in primary and secondary schools.

Apart from market-beating salaries, NETs receive government allowances and other incentives to ensure retention, which has been a growing problem in recent years.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A rule that is usually applied to Hong Kong government officers has been extended to foreigners teaching the English language at government schools where they have been asked to swear an oath of allegiance to the city.

A rule that is usually applied to Hong Kong government officers has been extended to foreigners teaching the English language at government schools where they have been asked to swear an oath of allegiance to the city. According to AFP news agency, Hong Kong's Education Bureau has issued an order mandating Native-speaking English Teachers (NETs) and advisors working in government-run schools to sign the declaration by June 21 in order to continue working in the upcoming academic year. The order states that NETs must declare they will bear allegiance to Hong Kong and uphold the Basic Law – the city’s constitutional text – as well as be responsible to the government. “Neglect, refusal or failure” to sign the declaration would lead to contract termination, authorities said. The new declaration would “further safeguard and promote the core values that should be upheld by all government employees” and ensure effective governance, a government spokesperson told AFP. The oath-taking was first introduced in 2020 at government offices in Hong Kong following the gradual rollout of the national security law as a way to fulfil Chinese government demands of loyalty. A NET teacher told Hong Kong Free Press newspaper that they are "unhappy" with the move as it seeks to treat the foreign teachers “as foreign agents who might instil dangerous ideas into the mind of Hong Kong youngsters.” NETs are hired on renewable two-year contracts, with monthly salaries starting at around HK$32,000 (US$4,100/£3,300) and can go as high as HK$74,000. Hong Kong introduced the NET program in 1997 to improve students’ language skills and has gradually made NETs a standard feature in primary and secondary schools. Apart from market-beating salaries, NETs receive government allowances and other incentives to ensure retention, which has been a growing problem in recent years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Foreign teachers in Hong Kong forced to take allegiance oath or risk losing job: Report

Are you living in one of the world's most expensive cities? Find out here

In Japan, protesters have been out on the streets of Tokyo in solidarity with Hong Kong where China has banned at gatherings to mark the Tiananmen Square Anniversary.

Japan holds 33rd anniversary of Tiananmen vigil anniversary

Chinese government does not regret killing people in Tiananmen square massacre. 33 years on, and China is yet to release the massacre's official death toll. Tiananmen protests were primarily student-led demonstrations against Nepotism, Corruption in China.

33 years of Tiananmen massacre: China vies to remove all reminders of 1989 crackdown

China's crackdown on the Tiananmen Square massacre continues as it shuts down Hong Kong's Victoria Park to not allow commemoration for the 33rd anniversary.

China's crackdown on Tiananmen continues as it shutdowns Hong Kong's Victoria park

Hundreds gather in Taipei to commemorate Tiananmen Square Massacre as Hong Kong remains under tight vigil

Remembering the 'tank man' on 33rd anniversary of Tiananmen Square massacre

The Tiananmen Square crackdown is a sore subject for the Chinese government. The 1989 incident, which saw China sending troops and tanks against peaceful protestors, is not discussed in China and the authorities have made sure that the crackdown even extends to the internet. On the other hand, Hong Kong has been organising an annual vigil on June 4 at Victoria Park to mark the occasion but this time, it seems that the tradition will be broken. The Hong Kong police has said that people will not be permitted to gather on the anniversary of the Tiananmen Square event on Saturday.

While the previous administrations did not have a problem with annual vigil, the authorities have banned the gatherings for the last two years with the pandemic being shown as the reason.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-hikes-prices-of-petroleum-products-power-massively-as-chinese-banks-agree-to-refinance-with-23-bn-484583" hreflang="en">Heading for turmoil? Pak hikes prices of petroleum products, power massively</a>

However, this year, the orders are more direct. The police made it clear that any gathering will be treated as a breach of law and action will be taken against all the involved individuals.

“When there are other people there, and you share a common goal to express some appeals, that’s already sufficient to make you a member of an unlawful assembly,” said senior superintendent Liauw Ka-kei according to an AFP report.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/economy/turkeys-annual-inflation-spirals-to-24-year-high-at-73-484683" hreflang="en">Turkey’s annual inflation spirals to 24-year high at 73%</a>

“If that person makes us feel that his or her purpose of appearance is to incite others, we of course will search for evidence,” he added.

The decision was taken as part of the strict security laws which were implemented in 2020 and since then, a number of activists and journalists have been jailed by the Hong Kong authorities.

The Tiananmen Square crackdown is a sore subject for the Chinese government. The 1989 incident, which saw China sending troops and tanks against peaceful protestors, is not discussed in China and the authorities have made sure that the crackdown even extends to the internet.

The Tiananmen Square crackdown is a sore subject for the Chinese government. The 1989 incident, which saw China sending troops and tanks against peaceful protestors, is not discussed in China and the authorities have made sure that the crackdown even extends to the internet. On the other hand, Hong Kong has been organising an annual vigil on June 4 at Victoria Park to mark the occasion but this time, it seems that the tradition will be broken. The Hong Kong police has said that people will not be permitted to gather on the anniversary of the Tiananmen Square event on Saturday. While the previous administrations did not have a problem with annual vigil, the authorities have banned the gatherings for the last two years with the pandemic being shown as the reason. Also read | Heading for turmoil? Pak hikes prices of petroleum products, power massively However, this year, the orders are more direct. The police made it clear that any gathering will be treated as a breach of law and action will be taken against all the involved individuals. “When there are other people there, and you share a common goal to express some appeals, that’s already sufficient to make you a member of an unlawful assembly,” said senior superintendent Liauw Ka-kei according to an AFP report. Also read | Turkey’s annual inflation spirals to 24-year high at 73% “If that person makes us feel that his or her purpose of appearance is to incite others, we of course will search for evidence,” he added. The decision was taken as part of the strict security laws which were implemented in 2020 and since then, a number of activists and journalists have been jailed by the Hong Kong authorities.

Hong Kong police issues warning over Tiananmen Square anniversary gatherings

For some years now, the discussion of the 1989 clampdown when the Chinese government set tanks and troops on peaceful protestors is all but forbidden in mainland China. Until two years ago Hong Kong was the one exception, however, it too is all but stifled since 2019 after a national security law was imposed to snuff out pro-democracy protests.

Last year in a crackdown on Tiananmen Square's 32nd-anniversary thousands of police officers were deployed to enforce a ban on protests in semi-autonomous Hong Kong.&nbsp;

Now on the 33rd anniversary of the horrible massacre Hong Kong police have once again warned the people that gathering in Victoria park - the site of the annual candlelight vigil will be breaking of the law.

As per the senior superintendent, Liauw Ka-kei residents risk committing the 'crime' of "unlawful assembly" even if they go to the park alone.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Hong Kong Police warn against Tiananmen massacre's 33rd anniversary gathering

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-police-warn-against-tiananmen-massacres-33rd-anniversary-gathering-484663/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

What exactly happened in 1989? What is the government trying to erase all traces of? Let's find out

China slid into economic chaos in 1988, with panic buying triggered by rising inflation peaking at more than 30 per cent in cities. Public discontent, coupled with the death of purged reform-minded Communist Party leader Hu Yaobang on April 15, 1989, set the stage for the demonstrations.

More than one million people flooded into central Beijing, keen to vent their anger against corruption, economic mismanagement, nepotism and poor career prospects for students. Gathering in&nbsp;Tiananmen&nbsp;Square, the students erected their own 'Goddess of Democracy' statue opposite the official portrait of the Communist revolutionary leader Chairman Mao Zedong.

After weeks of protests in the&nbsp;square, troops backed by tanks crushed the demonstrations, prompting global condemnation. The footage of a lone protester standing in front of a line of tanks has become one of the most powerful symbols of the 20th century.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massacre-memorabilia-tiananmen-square-watch-withdrawn-from-sale-by-uk-auction-house-374911">Massacre memorabilia: Tiananmen Square watch withdrawn from sale by UK auction house</a>

Chinese leaders denounced the demonstrations as a counter-revolutionary movement and the ensuing flurry of arrests, executions and exiles frightened many demonstrators into silence.

Who participated in the demonstrations?

The 1989 Tiananmen Square protests were primarily student-led demonstrations calling for democracy, free speech and a free press in China.&nbsp;

<img alt="Student displays a banner with one of the slogans chanted by the crowd of some 200,000 pouring into Tiananmen Square 22 April 1989 in Beijing in an attempt to participate in the funeral ceremony of former Chinese Communist Party leader and liberal reformer Hu Yaobang during an unauthorized demonstration to mourn his death. " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8953d0ee-a97a-4545-ad31-cd6c32745427" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202021-06-04T140123.923.jpg" />

Student displays a banner with one of the slogans chanted by the crowd of some 200,000 pouring into Tiananmen Square 22 April 1989 in Beijing in an attempt to participate in the funeral ceremony of former Chinese Communist Party leader and liberal reformer Hu Yaobang during an unauthorized demonstration to mourn his death.&nbsp;

Following the death of Hu Yaobang, a former communist party leader, who had been a vocal advocate of democracy, and had worked to introduce democratic reform in China,&nbsp;students marched through Beijing to Tiananmen Square. They had one demand, a more open, democratic government. Thousands of people joined them eventually, echoing their call for democratic reform. The final number of protestors was around a million.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/timeline-31-years-of-chinas-brutal-tiananmen-crackdown-303339">Timeline: 31 years of China's brutal Tiananmen crackdown</a> 
 
What pushed so many people to participate in the demonstrations?

At the centre of the protests was a frustration, with imposed limits on political freedom owing to the country's one-party form of government with the Communist Party at the helm.

<img alt="Beijing residents holding placards written in english walk in procession on May 18, 1989 in support to student hunger strikers who entered the 6th day at Tiananmen Square during &quot;Beijing Spring&quot; movement." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73d550aa-6de6-4de0-8731-709b669f8f58" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202021-06-04T140917.605.jpg" />

Beijing residents holding placards written in english walk in procession on May 18, 1989 in support to student hunger strikers who entered the 6th day at Tiananmen Square during "Beijing Spring" movement.

On top of this, all ongoing economic troubles had rattled the people. In spite of the then&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;government's economical reforms in the 1980s, establishing&nbsp;a limited form of capitalism in the country, the poor and working-class of the country continued to face a number of significant challenges, primary among which were increased poverty and a&nbsp;lack of jobs.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-brutal-tiananmen-crackdown-to-chinas-re-emergence-a-timeline-of-events-303100">From brutal Tiananmen crackdown to China's re-emergence: A timeline of events</a>

The students also contended that the Chinese educational system did little to prepare them for an economic system with elements of free-market capitalism. 
 
After weeks of protests, what was the catalyst that led to the government crackdown?

The movement reached its peak when on May 13, a few student protesters initiated a hunger strike, an action that inspired other similar strikes and protests across China.

The movements rapid growth soon became a reason for the unease of&nbsp;the government. The apprehension increased manifold when the May 15,&nbsp;welcome ceremony for the then Soviet Union (since disintegrated) PM Mikhail Gorbachev's which was to be held at Tiananmen Square had to be shifted to the Airport.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiananmen-masses-axed-as-crackdown-memorials-erased-in-hong-kong-483633">Tiananmen masses axed as crackdown memorials erased in Hong Kong</a>

Even though no violence was witnessed during Gorbachev's visit, feeling that the demonstrators needed to be curtailed, the Chinese government declared martial law on May 20.

<img alt="Pro-democracy demonstrators raise their fists and flash Victory signs 20 May 1989 in Beijing as they stop the military truck filled with soldiers on its way to Tiananmen Square 20 May 1989 after the Martial Law was proclaimed in Beijing 20 May." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="06d8b671-cdec-4d70-96cc-e0950690d2b9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202021-06-04T140026.279.jpg" />

Pro-democracy demonstrators raise their fists and flash Victory signs in Beijing as they stop the military truck filled with soldiers on its way to Tiananmen Square after the Martial Law was proclaimed in Beijing 20 May 1989.

Following the martial law enactment,&nbsp;250,000 troops entered Beijing. The presence of the military did nothing to quell the protests, which pushed the authorities to amp up the aggression.&nbsp;

On June 4th, at 1 am,&nbsp;Chinese soldiers and police stormed Tiananmen Square, firing live rounds into the crowd.

What was the death toll?

The government has never released a death toll of the June 4, 1989 crackdown, but estimates from human rights groups and witnesses range from several hundred to several thousand.

What were the implications of this massacre?

Leaders worldwide condemned military action. Even Soviet Union leader Mikhael Gorbachev deplored the Chinese government’s actions.

<img alt="A girl wounded during a clash between the army and students on June 4, 1989 near Tiananmen Square is carried out on a cart. " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1ac5dac3-e931-404d-8e7c-ff0a37e9dbc2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202021-06-04T140040.728.jpg" />

A girl wounded during a clash between the army and students on June 4, 1989 near Tiananmen Square is carried out on a cart.&nbsp;

Less than a month later, the US Congress citing human rights violations, also voted towards imposing economic sanctions against the country.

Images from the massacre in 1989, shook the world and led to China's isolation.

Today’s 33rd Anniversary&nbsp;of the infamous Tiananmen Square massacre

33&nbsp;years later, China is still a one-party state, with a deeply authoritarian government. It is still stifling dissent and still muzzling the voices of its citizens.

While the Tiananmen anniversary crackdown is not officially commemorated in mainland China, the topic is taboo and any discussion heavily censored.

This year marks the third year in a row when the Hong Kong police have imposed a ban on the vigil marking the massacre.&nbsp;

What else?

Last year, Albert Ho,&nbsp;former lawmaker and one of the vigil organisers, suggested Hong Kongers could light candles or shine mobile phone lights in their local neighbourhoods.

"We can regard the whole of Hong Kong as Victoria Park," he told the South China Morning Post before he was sentenced&nbsp;for attending previous democracy protests.&nbsp;

Social media presents another avenue.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-urges-china-to-repent-for-tiananmen-china-paper-says-event-is-merely-history-224036">Taiwan urges China to 'repent' for Tiananmen, China paper says event is merely history</a>

Artist Pak Sheung-chuen&nbsp;called on residents to write the numbers six and four,&nbsp;representing June 4,&nbsp;on light switches as a way to memorise&nbsp;Tiananmen&nbsp;every time they turn them on.

"Guard the truth and refuse to forget," Pak had said on Facebook.

Designer Chan Ka-hing posted another idea on social media. He printed a black rectangle with a 6:4 ratio on a white t-shirt and said others were welcome to copy the design.

Commemorating June 4 has for more than three decades been part of Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement and according to one of the mourners' District councillor, Debby Chan, "This is one of the most signature events of our movement. If we give up now, the red lines will only come closer in the future." 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

For some years now, the discussion of the 1989 clampdown when the Chinese government set tanks and troops on peaceful protestors is all but forbidden in mainland China.

For some years now, the discussion of the 1989 clampdown when the Chinese government set tanks and troops on peaceful protestors is all but forbidden in mainland China. Until two years ago Hong Kong was the one exception, however, it too is all but stifled since 2019 after a national security law was imposed to snuff out pro-democracy protests. Last year in a crackdown on Tiananmen Square's 32nd-anniversary thousands of police officers were deployed to enforce a ban on protests in semi-autonomous Hong Kong. Now on the 33rd anniversary of the horrible massacre Hong Kong police have once again warned the people that gathering in Victoria park - the site of the annual candlelight vigil will be breaking of the law. As per the senior superintendent, Liauw Ka-kei residents risk committing the 'crime' of "unlawful assembly" even if they go to the park alone. Watch | Hong Kong Police warn against Tiananmen massacre's 33rd anniversary gathering What exactly happened in 1989? What is the government trying to erase all traces of? Let's find out China slid into economic chaos in 1988, with panic buying triggered by rising inflation peaking at more than 30 per cent in cities. Public discontent, coupled with the death of purged reform-minded Communist Party leader Hu Yaobang on April 15, 1989, set the stage for the demonstrations. More than one million people flooded into central Beijing, keen to vent their anger against corruption, economic mismanagement, nepotism and poor career prospects for students. Gathering in Tiananmen Square, the students erected their own 'Goddess of Democracy' statue opposite the official portrait of the Communist revolutionary leader Chairman Mao Zedong. After weeks of protests in the square, troops backed by tanks crushed the demonstrations, prompting global condemnation. The footage of a lone protester standing in front of a line of tanks has become one of the most powerful symbols of the 20th century. Also Read | Massacre memorabilia: Tiananmen Square watch withdrawn from sale by UK auction house Chinese leaders denounced the demonstrations as a counter-revolutionary movement and the ensuing flurry of arrests, executions and exiles frightened many demonstrators into silence. Who participated in the demonstrations? The 1989 Tiananmen Square protests were primarily student-led demonstrations calling for democracy, free speech and a free press in China. Student displays a banner with one of the slogans chanted by the crowd of some 200,000 pouring into Tiananmen Square 22 April 1989 in Beijing in an attempt to participate in the funeral ceremony of former Chinese Communist Party leader and liberal reformer Hu Yaobang during an unauthorized demonstration to mourn his death. Following the death of Hu Yaobang, a former communist party leader, who had been a vocal advocate of democracy, and had worked to introduce democratic reform in China, students marched through Beijing to Tiananmen Square. They had one demand, a more open, democratic government. Thousands of people joined them eventually, echoing their call for democratic reform. The final number of protestors was around a million. Also Read | Timeline: 31 years of China's brutal Tiananmen crackdown What pushed so many people to participate in the demonstrations? At the centre of the protests was a frustration, with imposed limits on political freedom owing to the country's one-party form of government with the Communist Party at the helm. Beijing residents holding placards written in english walk in procession on May 18, 1989 in support to student hunger strikers who entered the 6th day at Tiananmen Square during "Beijing Spring" movement. On top of this, all ongoing economic troubles had rattled the people. In spite of the then Chinese government's economical reforms in the 1980s, establishing a limited form of capitalism in the country, the poor and working-class of the country continued to face a number of significant challenges, primary among which were increased poverty and a lack of jobs. Also Read | From brutal Tiananmen crackdown to China's re-emergence: A timeline of events The students also contended that the Chinese educational system did little to prepare them for an economic system with elements of free-market capitalism. After weeks of protests, what was the catalyst that led to the government crackdown? The movement reached its peak when on May 13, a few student protesters initiated a hunger strike, an action that inspired other similar strikes and protests across China. The movements rapid growth soon became a reason for the unease of the government. The apprehension increased manifold when the May 15, welcome ceremony for the then Soviet Union (since disintegrated) PM Mikhail Gorbachev's which was to be held at Tiananmen Square had to be shifted to the Airport. Also Read | Tiananmen masses axed as crackdown memorials erased in Hong Kong Even though no violence was witnessed during Gorbachev's visit, feeling that the demonstrators needed to be curtailed, the Chinese government declared martial law on May 20. Pro-democracy demonstrators raise their fists and flash Victory signs in Beijing as they stop the military truck filled with soldiers on its way to Tiananmen Square after the Martial Law was proclaimed in Beijing 20 May 1989. Following the martial law enactment, 250,000 troops entered Beijing. The presence of the military did nothing to quell the protests, which pushed the authorities to amp up the aggression. On June 4th, at 1 am, Chinese soldiers and police stormed Tiananmen Square, firing live rounds into the crowd. What was the death toll? The government has never released a death toll of the June 4, 1989 crackdown, but estimates from human rights groups and witnesses range from several hundred to several thousand. What were the implications of this massacre? Leaders worldwide condemned military action. Even Soviet Union leader Mikhael Gorbachev deplored the Chinese government’s actions. A girl wounded during a clash between the army and students on June 4, 1989 near Tiananmen Square is carried out on a cart. Less than a month later, the US Congress citing human rights violations, also voted towards imposing economic sanctions against the country. Images from the massacre in 1989, shook the world and led to China's isolation. Today’s 33rd Anniversary of the infamous Tiananmen Square massacre 33 years later, China is still a one-party state, with a deeply authoritarian government. It is still stifling dissent and still muzzling the voices of its citizens. While the Tiananmen anniversary crackdown is not officially commemorated in mainland China, the topic is taboo and any discussion heavily censored. This year marks the third year in a row when the Hong Kong police have imposed a ban on the vigil marking the massacre. What else? Last year, Albert Ho, former lawmaker and one of the vigil organisers, suggested Hong Kongers could light candles or shine mobile phone lights in their local neighbourhoods. "We can regard the whole of Hong Kong as Victoria Park," he told the South China Morning Post before he was sentenced for attending previous democracy protests. Social media presents another avenue. Also Read | Taiwan urges China to 'repent' for Tiananmen, China paper says event is merely history Artist Pak Sheung-chuen called on residents to write the numbers six and four, representing June 4, on light switches as a way to memorise Tiananmen every time they turn them on. "Guard the truth and refuse to forget," Pak had said on Facebook. Designer Chan Ka-hing posted another idea on social media. He printed a black rectangle with a 6:4 ratio on a white t-shirt and said others were welcome to copy the design. Commemorating June 4 has for more than three decades been part of Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement and according to one of the mourners' District councillor, Debby Chan, "This is one of the most signature events of our movement. If we give up now, the red lines will only come closer in the future." (With inputs from agencies)

Tiananmen Square Massacre: What really happened in 1989?

June 4 marks the 33rd anniversary of the government crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrators in Beijing's Tiananmen Square. Hong Kong police have warned that people risk breaking the law if they gather on Saturday to commemorate China’s Tiananmen crackdown.

Hong Kong Police warn against Tiananmen massacre's 33rd anniversary gathering

hong-kong

Hong Kong, News on Hong Kong, stories on Hong Kong, articles on Hong Kong, Hong Kong stories at Wion, Hong Kong news, Hong Kong latest news

hong kong