<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-retrieve-another-round-of-petrol-bombs-from-university-266074">Hong Kong's government</a> on Wednesday pledged HK$4 billion ($511 million) in additional relief measures to help shore up an economy battered by months of protests that have eroded business confidence in the Asian financial hub.

Financial Secretary Paul Chan announced the measures at a news conference, where he also told reporters the anti-Beijing demonstrations had hurt international investor confidence in the Chinese-ruled city.

It marks the fourth round of such stimulus after the government previously offered around HK$21 billion in economic support, particularly to help the transport, tourism and retail industries.

Watch: Protests take toll on Hong Kong economy

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-protests-take-toll-on-hong-kong-economy-265285/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/business-activity-in-hong-kong-shrinks-the-most-in-21-years-pmi-266073">Business&nbsp;activity</a>&nbsp;in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;contracted at the fastest pace in&nbsp;21&nbsp;years&nbsp;in&nbsp;November, dragged down by anti-government protests and softening global demand, an IHS Markit survey showed on Wednesday.

Increasingly violent demonstrations have disrupted the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fourth-round-of-relief-measures-to-be-introduced-in-hong-kong-carrie-lam-265826">Chinese-ruled city</a> for nearly six months, battering its retail and tourism sector and plunging its economy into recession for the first time in a decade.

The seasonally adjusted headline&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;Purchasing Manager's Index (PMI) fell to 38.5 in&nbsp;November, down from 39.3 in October and signalling the steepest private sector downturn since the SARS epidemic in early 2003.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Hong Kong's government on Wednesday pledged HK$4 billion ($511 million) in additional relief measures to help shore up an economy battered by months of protests that have eroded business confidence in the Asian financial hub.

Hong Kong's government on Wednesday pledged HK$4 billion ($511 million) in additional relief measures to help shore up an economy battered by months of protests that have eroded business confidence in the Asian financial hub. Financial Secretary Paul Chan announced the measures at a news conference, where he also told reporters the anti-Beijing demonstrations had hurt international investor confidence in the Chinese-ruled city. It marks the fourth round of such stimulus after the government previously offered around HK$21 billion in economic support, particularly to help the transport, tourism and retail industries. Watch: Protests take toll on Hong Kong economy Business activity in Hong Kong contracted at the fastest pace in 21 years in November, dragged down by anti-government protests and softening global demand, an IHS Markit survey showed on Wednesday. Increasingly violent demonstrations have disrupted the Chinese-ruled city for nearly six months, battering its retail and tourism sector and plunging its economy into recession for the first time in a decade. The seasonally adjusted headline Hong Kong Purchasing Manager's Index (PMI) fell to 38.5 in November, down from 39.3 in October and signalling the steepest private sector downturn since the SARS epidemic in early 2003. (With inputs from Reuters)

Hong Kong announces fresh economic support measures worth $511 million

The Iranian port city of Bandar-e-Mahshahr has emerged as the scene of some of the worst violence in Iran’s brutal crackdown on recent anti-government protests.

Located in Iran’s oil-rich Khuzestan province, home to the country’s restive ethnic Arab minority, the protests in Bandar-e-Mahshahr strengthened Iran in its belief that the anti-government outburst was yet another effort to destabilise the Islamic republic by the United States, Saudi Arabia and Israel.

Iranian state television reported that security forces had confronted a separatist group in the city that was armed with “semi-heavy” weapons. It claimed the armed rioters had fought with security personnel for hours.

Iranian exiles in contact with family and friends in Bandar-e-Mahshahr said protesters blocked off a road leading from the city, that is home to Iran’s largest petrochemical complex, to the village of Koora.

In contrast to past protests in the province, the protesters chanted slogans against Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Hassan Rouhani rather than Arab nationalist phrases.

The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps’ 3rd Marine Force Division, based on the outskirts of the city, intervened with armoured vehicles after police failed to disperse the protesters. The exiles said the Guards opened fire on protesters trying to escape into nearby marshlands.

An unconfirmed video purportedly documenting the killing of up to 100 people shows armoured vehicles driving down a road as multiple rounds are fired and men are heard shouting. “They simply mowed them down,” said one of the exiles who studied in Bandar-e-Mahshahr and has relatives in the city.

In many ways, the protests in Bandar-e-Mahshahr and multiple other Iranian cities fit a global pattern; a specific issue sparks anti-government demonstrations that quickly evolve into a mass movement demanding a complete overhaul of a political system that has failed to cater to the aspirations of major segments of the population.

In Hong Kong the spark was a law that would enable extraditions to mainland China, in Santiago de Chile it was public transportation price hikes and in Iran, it was a surprise increase in petrol prices.

Struggling under the yoke of harsh US economic sanctions imposed after the Trump administration’s unilateral withdrawal in 2018 from the international agreement that curbed Iran’s nuclear program, Iranian leaders failed to recognise that long-standing mismanagement of the economy and widespread corruption was undermining their legitimacy.

The notion of a US-Saudi-Israeli conspiracy to stoke unrest among Iran’s ethnic minorities in a bid to destabilise the regime was reinforced by statements in recent years by American, Saudi and Israeli officials and a series of violent incidents in Khuzestan as well as the Iranian province of Sistan-Baluchistan and Kurdish regions of Iran.

Ayatollah Khamenei’s insistence that the Iranian protests constituted a ‘dangerous conspiracy’ by the United States was hardly surprising.

The protests erupted after weeks in which demonstrators in Iraq denounced Iranian influence in their country and attacked the Islamic republic’s consulates in Basra and Najaf. Similarly, Lebanon, home to Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed Shiite militia, has been paralysed for the past two months by anti-sectarian protesters.

The conviction that Iran’s enemies were tightening the noose around its neck may well have some grounding in reality even if the Islamic republic’s most recent regional setbacks, as well as the outburst of deep-seated anger at home, cannot be reduced to foreign conspiracies.

The brutality with which the regime cracked down on protesters as well as its drastic decision to shut down the Internet for four days suggests that Iran has little faith in indications that Saudi Arabia is groping for ways to dial down tension with its arch-rival or Omani efforts to mediate.

It also explains why the squashing of the protests in Bandar-e-Mahshahr may have been particularly harsh.

The Ahvaz National Resistance, an Iranian Arab separatist group, claimed responsibility in September 2018 for an attack on a Revolutionary Guards parade in the Khuzestan capital of Ahwaz in which 29 people were killed and 70 others wounded.

Unidentified gunmen in the Netherlands killed Ahmad Mola Nissi, a leader of the Arab Struggle Movement for the Liberation of Ahvaz (ASMLA), in November 2017.

Shot dead on a street in The Hague, Mola Nissi died the violent life he was alleged to have lived.

A 52-year-old refugee living in the Netherlands since 2005, Mola Nissi was believed to have been responsible for attacks in Khuzestan in 2005, 2006 and 2013 on oil facilities, the office of the Khuzestan governor, other government offices, and banks.

Mola Nissi focussed in his most recent years on media activities and fundraising, at times creating footage of alleged attacks involving gas cylinder explosions to attract Saudi funding, according to Iranian activists.

Mola Nissi was killed as he was preparing to establish a television station backed by Saudi-trained personnel and funding that would target Khuzestan.

Protests in Khuzestan have focussed in recent years on identity, environmental degradation, and social issues.

International human rights groups have long accused Iran of discriminating against Iranian Arabs even though a majority are Shiite rather than Sunni Muslims. Dozens of protesters were reportedly killed during demonstrations in Ahwaz in 2011 that were inspired by the popular Arab revolts.

“Despite Khuzestan's natural resource wealth, its ethnic Arab population, which is believed to constitute a majority in the province, has long complained about the lack of socio-economic development in the region. They also allege that the Iranian government has engaged in systematic discrimination against them, particularly in the areas of employment, housing, and civil and political rights,” Human Rights Watch said at the time.

That was in 2011. Like in the rest of Iran, things have only gotten worse in Khuzestan since. 
 
&nbsp;(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

The Iranian port city of Bandar-e-Mahshahr has emerged as the scene of some of the worst violence in Iran’s brutal crackdown on recent anti-government protests. Located in Iran’s oil-rich Khuzestan province, home to the country’s restive ethnic Arab minority, the protests in Bandar-e-Mahshahr strengthened Iran in its belief that the anti-government outburst was yet another effort to destabilise the Islamic republic by the United States, Saudi Arabia and Israel.

The Iranian port city of Bandar-e-Mahshahr has emerged as the scene of some of the worst violence in Iran’s brutal crackdown on recent anti-government protests. Located in Iran’s oil-rich Khuzestan province, home to the country’s restive ethnic Arab minority, the protests in Bandar-e-Mahshahr strengthened Iran in its belief that the anti-government outburst was yet another effort to destabilise the Islamic republic by the United States, Saudi Arabia and Israel. Iranian state television reported that security forces had confronted a separatist group in the city that was armed with “semi-heavy” weapons. It claimed the armed rioters had fought with security personnel for hours. Iranian exiles in contact with family and friends in Bandar-e-Mahshahr said protesters blocked off a road leading from the city, that is home to Iran’s largest petrochemical complex, to the village of Koora. In contrast to past protests in the province, the protesters chanted slogans against Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Hassan Rouhani rather than Arab nationalist phrases. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps’ 3rd Marine Force Division, based on the outskirts of the city, intervened with armoured vehicles after police failed to disperse the protesters. The exiles said the Guards opened fire on protesters trying to escape into nearby marshlands. An unconfirmed video purportedly documenting the killing of up to 100 people shows armoured vehicles driving down a road as multiple rounds are fired and men are heard shouting. “They simply mowed them down,” said one of the exiles who studied in Bandar-e-Mahshahr and has relatives in the city. In many ways, the protests in Bandar-e-Mahshahr and multiple other Iranian cities fit a global pattern; a specific issue sparks anti-government demonstrations that quickly evolve into a mass movement demanding a complete overhaul of a political system that has failed to cater to the aspirations of major segments of the population. In Hong Kong the spark was a law that would enable extraditions to mainland China, in Santiago de Chile it was public transportation price hikes and in Iran, it was a surprise increase in petrol prices. Struggling under the yoke of harsh US economic sanctions imposed after the Trump administration’s unilateral withdrawal in 2018 from the international agreement that curbed Iran’s nuclear program, Iranian leaders failed to recognise that long-standing mismanagement of the economy and widespread corruption was undermining their legitimacy. The notion of a US-Saudi-Israeli conspiracy to stoke unrest among Iran’s ethnic minorities in a bid to destabilise the regime was reinforced by statements in recent years by American, Saudi and Israeli officials and a series of violent incidents in Khuzestan as well as the Iranian province of Sistan-Baluchistan and Kurdish regions of Iran. Ayatollah Khamenei’s insistence that the Iranian protests constituted a ‘dangerous conspiracy’ by the United States was hardly surprising. The protests erupted after weeks in which demonstrators in Iraq denounced Iranian influence in their country and attacked the Islamic republic’s consulates in Basra and Najaf. Similarly, Lebanon, home to Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed Shiite militia, has been paralysed for the past two months by anti-sectarian protesters. The conviction that Iran’s enemies were tightening the noose around its neck may well have some grounding in reality even if the Islamic republic’s most recent regional setbacks, as well as the outburst of deep-seated anger at home, cannot be reduced to foreign conspiracies. The brutality with which the regime cracked down on protesters as well as its drastic decision to shut down the Internet for four days suggests that Iran has little faith in indications that Saudi Arabia is groping for ways to dial down tension with its arch-rival or Omani efforts to mediate. It also explains why the squashing of the protests in Bandar-e-Mahshahr may have been particularly harsh. The Ahvaz National Resistance, an Iranian Arab separatist group, claimed responsibility in September 2018 for an attack on a Revolutionary Guards parade in the Khuzestan capital of Ahwaz in which 29 people were killed and 70 others wounded. Unidentified gunmen in the Netherlands killed Ahmad Mola Nissi, a leader of the Arab Struggle Movement for the Liberation of Ahvaz (ASMLA), in November 2017. Shot dead on a street in The Hague, Mola Nissi died the violent life he was alleged to have lived. A 52-year-old refugee living in the Netherlands since 2005, Mola Nissi was believed to have been responsible for attacks in Khuzestan in 2005, 2006 and 2013 on oil facilities, the office of the Khuzestan governor, other government offices, and banks. Mola Nissi focussed in his most recent years on media activities and fundraising, at times creating footage of alleged attacks involving gas cylinder explosions to attract Saudi funding, according to Iranian activists. Mola Nissi was killed as he was preparing to establish a television station backed by Saudi-trained personnel and funding that would target Khuzestan. Protests in Khuzestan have focussed in recent years on identity, environmental degradation, and social issues. International human rights groups have long accused Iran of discriminating against Iranian Arabs even though a majority are Shiite rather than Sunni Muslims. Dozens of protesters were reportedly killed during demonstrations in Ahwaz in 2011 that were inspired by the popular Arab revolts. “Despite Khuzestan's natural resource wealth, its ethnic Arab population, which is believed to constitute a majority in the province, has long complained about the lack of socio-economic development in the region. They also allege that the Iranian government has engaged in systematic discrimination against them, particularly in the areas of employment, housing, and civil and political rights,” Human Rights Watch said at the time. That was in 2011. Like in the rest of Iran, things have only gotten worse in Khuzestan since. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Protests in Iran seen as a consipiracy to destabilise current political regime

4th Round of Targeted relief measures to be introduced.

WION Dispatch: Carrie Lam closes ranks with China

Carrie Lam, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-series-of-week-long-lunchtime-protests-begin-265716">Hong Kong's</a> leader today said that her administration is planning to introduce a ''fourth round of relief measures'' soon to revive the city's economy owing to six months of violent protests.

After the long stint at Hong Kong Polytechnic University, the protests were refuelled yesterday during day time. Lam was speaking after a mass demonstration over the weekend in the Asian financial hub that saw police fire tear gas to disperse thousands of anti-government protesters, ending a rare lull in violence.

Hundreds of office workers in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-new-rallies-to-take-place-today-after-weekend-of-unrest-265688">Hong Kong's</a> business district gathered on Monday for the first in a week of lunchtime protests backing the pro-democracy movement after its resounding victory in district polls held last week in the Chinese-ruled city.

Lam said on Tuesday US&nbsp;legislation supporting protesters may damage business confidence in the financial hub.

Lam told reporters the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act signed into US&nbsp;law last week was "wholly unnecessary", as the former British colony grapples with its first recession in a decade.

The act requires the US&nbsp;State Department to certify at least annually that Hong Kong retains enough autonomy to justify favourable US&nbsp;trading terms, and threatens sanctions for human rights violations.

"The impact currently is on confidence ... because corporates will be worried about the actions the US&nbsp;government may take in the future after they review this legislation," Lam said.

On Sunday, police again resorted to firing tear gas to disperse thousands of protesters as they marched past the city's Kowloon waterfront, after first going to the US consulate on Hong Kong island to show gratitude for Washington's support.

There was no such confrontation at the two-hour rally in the central business district on Monday, as some people went back to their offices after their demonstration of solidarity. Others said they would be striking for the full five days.

Watch: Protesters march for 'five demands'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-protesters-march-for-five-demands-265555/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The gathering in Chater Garden probably drew Hong Kong's best-dressed protesters, and organisers have called on them to come out every day this week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-turn-to-taiwan-in-search-of-new-lives-265669">Protests over the last six months</a> have drawn a wide swathe of Hong Kong society, from students to pensioners. Even white-collar professionals, like those in Chater park, have sometimes blocked roads in recent weeks, leading to face-offs with police.

Protests that have paralysed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-fire-tear-gas-to-disperse-anti-government-protesters-265558">Hong Kong for nearly six months</a>&nbsp;are pushing residents to seek new lives abroad, with many turning to nearby democratic Taiwan to escape the uncertainty at home.

Taiwan has long attracted Hong Kongers seeking an alternative to their city's frenetic pace and sky-high rents.

But the number granted short-term and permanent residency in Taiwan rose nearly 30 per cent to over 4,000 between January and September from a year earlier, with investment from Hong Kong almost doubling.

(With inputs from agencies)

Carrie Lam, Hong Kong's leader today said that her administration is planning to introduce a ''fourth round of relief measures'' soon to revive the city's economy owing to six months of violent protests.

Carrie Lam, Hong Kong's leader today said that her administration is planning to introduce a ''fourth round of relief measures'' soon to revive the city's economy owing to six months of violent protests. After the long stint at Hong Kong Polytechnic University, the protests were refuelled yesterday during day time. Lam was speaking after a mass demonstration over the weekend in the Asian financial hub that saw police fire tear gas to disperse thousands of anti-government protesters, ending a rare lull in violence. Hundreds of office workers in Hong Kong's business district gathered on Monday for the first in a week of lunchtime protests backing the pro-democracy movement after its resounding victory in district polls held last week in the Chinese-ruled city. Lam said on Tuesday US legislation supporting protesters may damage business confidence in the financial hub. Lam told reporters the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act signed into US law last week was "wholly unnecessary", as the former British colony grapples with its first recession in a decade. The act requires the US State Department to certify at least annually that Hong Kong retains enough autonomy to justify favourable US trading terms, and threatens sanctions for human rights violations. "The impact currently is on confidence ... because corporates will be worried about the actions the US government may take in the future after they review this legislation," Lam said. On Sunday, police again resorted to firing tear gas to disperse thousands of protesters as they marched past the city's Kowloon waterfront, after first going to the US consulate on Hong Kong island to show gratitude for Washington's support. There was no such confrontation at the two-hour rally in the central business district on Monday, as some people went back to their offices after their demonstration of solidarity. Others said they would be striking for the full five days. Watch: Protesters march for 'five demands' The gathering in Chater Garden probably drew Hong Kong's best-dressed protesters, and organisers have called on them to come out every day this week. Protests over the last six months have drawn a wide swathe of Hong Kong society, from students to pensioners. Even white-collar professionals, like those in Chater park, have sometimes blocked roads in recent weeks, leading to face-offs with police. Protests that have paralysed Hong Kong for nearly six months are pushing residents to seek new lives abroad, with many turning to nearby democratic Taiwan to escape the uncertainty at home. Taiwan has long attracted Hong Kongers seeking an alternative to their city's frenetic pace and sky-high rents. But the number granted short-term and permanent residency in Taiwan rose nearly 30 per cent to over 4,000 between January and September from a year earlier, with investment from Hong Kong almost doubling. (With inputs from agencies)

Fourth round of relief measures to be introduced in Hong Kong, US bill 'wholly unnecessary': Carrie Lam

A Czech mayor’s refusal to endorse Beijing’s One China policy potentially sets a high bar as Western powers grapple with how to respond to allegations of excessive use of violence by police against Hong Kong protesters and the implications of leaked documents detailing a brutal crackdown in China’s north-western province of Xinjiang.

Prague mayor Zdenek Hrib rejected a sister city agreement between the Czech capital and Beijing in late October because it included a clause endorsing the One China policy, which implicitly recognizes China's sovereignty over Taiwan, as well as Hong Kong and Tibet.

Hrib argued that the agreement was a cultural arrangement and not designed to address foreign policy issues that were the prerogative of the national government.

The mayor’s stance has since taken on added significance against the backdrop of US President Donald J Trump’s signing of legislation that allows for the sanctioning of Hong Kong officials, embarrassing Communist party leaks that document repression in Xinjiang, the election of a new Sri Lankan government that intends to adopt a tougher policy towards China, and simmering anti-Chinese sentiment in Central Asia and beyond.

Hrib’s rejection was, in fact, a reflection of anti-Chinese sentiment in the Czech Republic as well as opposition to the pro-China policy adopted by Czech president Milos Zeman.

To be sure, Hrib, a 38-year old medical doctor who interned in Taiwan, was shouldering little political or economic risk given Czech public anger at China’s failure to fulfil promises of significant investment in the country.

On the contrary, Hrib, since becoming mayor in mid-2018, appears to have made it his pastime to put Zeman on the spot by poking a finger at China.

Hrib visited Taiwan in the first six months of his mayorship, flew the Tibetan flag over Prague’s city hall, and rejected a request by the Chinese ambassador at a meeting with foreign diplomats to send Taiwanese representatives out of the room.

Beijing’s cancellation of a tour of China by the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra in response to Hrib’s provocations forced Zeman to describe the Chinese retaliation as “excessive” and his foreign minister, Tomas Petricek, to declare that "diplomacy is not conducted with threats."

Perhaps more importantly, Hrib was taking a stand based on principles and values rather than interests. In doing so, he was challenging the new normal of world leaders flagrantly ignoring international law to operate on the principle of might is right.

"Our conscience is not for sale," said Michaela Krausova, a leading member of the governing Pirate Party of the Prague city council. Krausova and Hrib’s party was founded to shake up Czech politics with its insistence on the safeguarding of civil liberties and political accountability and transparency.

While couched in terms of principle, Hrib’s stand strokes with newly installed Sri Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s intention to wrest back control from China of the island’s strategic Hambantota port that serves key shipping lanes between Europe and Asia.

Hambantota became a symbol of what some critics have charged is Chinese debt-trap diplomacy after Sri Lanka was forced to hand over the port to China in 2017 on a 99-year lease because the government was unable to repay loans taken to build it.

"I believe that the Sri Lankan government must have control of all strategically important projects like Hambantota. The next generation will curse our generation for giving away precious assets otherwise," Rajapaksa said.

Fears of a debt trap coupled with the crackdown on Turkic Muslims in Xinjiang, which targets not only Uighurs but also groups that trace their roots to Central Asian countries, have fuelled anti-Chinese sentiment in Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Kazakhstan.

“Given that China is likely to continue to expand its presence, further irritating local publics, the temptation of opposition groups to exploit such anger will only grow. If that happens…the anti-Chinese demonstrations that have taken place to date will be only the prelude to a situation that could easily spiral out of control, ethnicizing politics in these countries still further,” said Central Asia scholar Paul Goble.

Beyond Xinjiang, anti-Chinese sentiment in Central Asia is fuelled by some of the same drivers that inform Czech attitudes towards China.

The shared drivers include unfulfilled promises, idle incomplete Chinese-funded infrastructure projects, widespread corruption associated with Chinese funding, and the influx of Chinese labour and materials at the expense of the local workforce and manufacturers.

Beyond Xinjiang, Central Asians worry about potential debt traps. The Washington-based Center for Global Development listed last year two Central Asian nations, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, as risking China-related “debt distress.”

Warned China and Central Asia scholar Ayjaz Wani: “Chinese principles in Central Asia are hegemonic. China has always interacted with Central Asian states without regarding their cultural identities, but according to its own vested interests… However, the ongoing anti-China sentiments may be coming to a tipping point.” 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

A Czech mayor’s refusal to endorse Beijing’s One China policy potentially sets a high bar as Western powers grapple with how to respond to allegations of excessive use of violence by police against Hong Kong protesters and the implications of leaked documents detailing a brutal crackdown in China’s north-western province of Xinjiang.

A Czech mayor’s refusal to endorse Beijing’s One China policy potentially sets a high bar as Western powers grapple with how to respond to allegations of excessive use of violence by police against Hong Kong protesters and the implications of leaked documents detailing a brutal crackdown in China’s north-western province of Xinjiang. Prague mayor Zdenek Hrib rejected a sister city agreement between the Czech capital and Beijing in late October because it included a clause endorsing the One China policy, which implicitly recognizes China's sovereignty over Taiwan, as well as Hong Kong and Tibet. Hrib argued that the agreement was a cultural arrangement and not designed to address foreign policy issues that were the prerogative of the national government. The mayor’s stance has since taken on added significance against the backdrop of US President Donald J Trump’s signing of legislation that allows for the sanctioning of Hong Kong officials, embarrassing Communist party leaks that document repression in Xinjiang, the election of a new Sri Lankan government that intends to adopt a tougher policy towards China, and simmering anti-Chinese sentiment in Central Asia and beyond. Hrib’s rejection was, in fact, a reflection of anti-Chinese sentiment in the Czech Republic as well as opposition to the pro-China policy adopted by Czech president Milos Zeman. To be sure, Hrib, a 38-year old medical doctor who interned in Taiwan, was shouldering little political or economic risk given Czech public anger at China’s failure to fulfil promises of significant investment in the country. On the contrary, Hrib, since becoming mayor in mid-2018, appears to have made it his pastime to put Zeman on the spot by poking a finger at China. Hrib visited Taiwan in the first six months of his mayorship, flew the Tibetan flag over Prague’s city hall, and rejected a request by the Chinese ambassador at a meeting with foreign diplomats to send Taiwanese representatives out of the room. Beijing’s cancellation of a tour of China by the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra in response to Hrib’s provocations forced Zeman to describe the Chinese retaliation as “excessive” and his foreign minister, Tomas Petricek, to declare that "diplomacy is not conducted with threats." Perhaps more importantly, Hrib was taking a stand based on principles and values rather than interests. In doing so, he was challenging the new normal of world leaders flagrantly ignoring international law to operate on the principle of might is right. "Our conscience is not for sale," said Michaela Krausova, a leading member of the governing Pirate Party of the Prague city council. Krausova and Hrib’s party was founded to shake up Czech politics with its insistence on the safeguarding of civil liberties and political accountability and transparency. While couched in terms of principle, Hrib’s stand strokes with newly installed Sri Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s intention to wrest back control from China of the island’s strategic Hambantota port that serves key shipping lanes between Europe and Asia. Hambantota became a symbol of what some critics have charged is Chinese debt-trap diplomacy after Sri Lanka was forced to hand over the port to China in 2017 on a 99-year lease because the government was unable to repay loans taken to build it. "I believe that the Sri Lankan government must have control of all strategically important projects like Hambantota. The next generation will curse our generation for giving away precious assets otherwise," Rajapaksa said. Fears of a debt trap coupled with the crackdown on Turkic Muslims in Xinjiang, which targets not only Uighurs but also groups that trace their roots to Central Asian countries, have fuelled anti-Chinese sentiment in Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Kazakhstan. “Given that China is likely to continue to expand its presence, further irritating local publics, the temptation of opposition groups to exploit such anger will only grow. If that happens…the anti-Chinese demonstrations that have taken place to date will be only the prelude to a situation that could easily spiral out of control, ethnicizing politics in these countries still further,” said Central Asia scholar Paul Goble. Beyond Xinjiang, anti-Chinese sentiment in Central Asia is fuelled by some of the same drivers that inform Czech attitudes towards China. The shared drivers include unfulfilled promises, idle incomplete Chinese-funded infrastructure projects, widespread corruption associated with Chinese funding, and the influx of Chinese labour and materials at the expense of the local workforce and manufacturers. Beyond Xinjiang, Central Asians worry about potential debt traps. The Washington-based Center for Global Development listed last year two Central Asian nations, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, as risking China-related “debt distress.” Warned China and Central Asia scholar Ayjaz Wani: “Chinese principles in Central Asia are hegemonic. China has always interacted with Central Asian states without regarding their cultural identities, but according to its own vested interests… However, the ongoing anti-China sentiments may be coming to a tipping point.” (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Standing up to China's alleged human rights abuses

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-fire-tear-gas-to-disperse-anti-government-protesters-265558">Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;protesters</a> geared up for a week of lunchtime rallies on Monday, a day after a mass demonstration showed the anti-government movement can still draw people to the streets even after sweeping recent gains by democrats in district elections.

After a rare lull in demonstrations following the polls, police on Sunday fired tear gas to disperse thousands of anti-government protesters as residents chanted "revolution of our time" and "liberate&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong".

Protesters are planning two-hour rallies at lunchtime for the next five days in the Asian financial hub's central business district, according to online posts.

The protests have drawn in a wide swathe of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;society - from students to pensioners and office workers. The lunchtime rallies in Central were aimed at drawing in white-collar professionals, who occasionally have blocked roads over the past few weeks, leading to some face-offs with police.

The Sunday protest in the busy shopping district of Tsim Sha Tsui followed a "thanksgiving" march by hundreds to the US&nbsp;consulate to show gratitude for US&nbsp;support for the demonstrations that have agitated the Chinese-ruled city for about six months.

Watch: Protesters march for 'five demands'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-protesters-march-for-five-demands-265555/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Shops and businesses in Tsim Sha Tsui closed early as police sprayed volleys of tear gas at demonstrators, including some elderly residents and others with their pets, as they marched past the city's Kowloon waterfront, home to luxury hotels and shopping malls.

Police made several arrests as the tear gas sent hundreds fleeing towards the harbour.

While the November 24 district elections delivered an overwhelming victory to pro-democracy candidates, activists have pledged to maintain the momentum of the anti-government movement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pensioners-and-students-gather-for-hong-kong-protest-265423">The protesters' demands</a> include an end to Beijing's alleged meddling in the freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997, universal suffrage and an inquiry into police use of force.

The unrest since June has at times forced the closure of government offices, businesses, schools and the international airport, helping drive the city into recession for the first time in a decade in the third quarter.

Hong Kong protesters geared up for a week of lunchtime rallies on Monday, a day after a mass demonstration showed the anti-government movement can still draw people to the streets even after sweeping recent gains by democrats in district elections.

Hong Kong protesters geared up for a week of lunchtime rallies on Monday, a day after a mass demonstration showed the anti-government movement can still draw people to the streets even after sweeping recent gains by democrats in district elections. After a rare lull in demonstrations following the polls, police on Sunday fired tear gas to disperse thousands of anti-government protesters as residents chanted "revolution of our time" and "liberate Hong Kong". Protesters are planning two-hour rallies at lunchtime for the next five days in the Asian financial hub's central business district, according to online posts. The protests have drawn in a wide swathe of Hong Kong society - from students to pensioners and office workers. The lunchtime rallies in Central were aimed at drawing in white-collar professionals, who occasionally have blocked roads over the past few weeks, leading to some face-offs with police. The Sunday protest in the busy shopping district of Tsim Sha Tsui followed a "thanksgiving" march by hundreds to the US consulate to show gratitude for US support for the demonstrations that have agitated the Chinese-ruled city for about six months. Watch: Protesters march for 'five demands' Shops and businesses in Tsim Sha Tsui closed early as police sprayed volleys of tear gas at demonstrators, including some elderly residents and others with their pets, as they marched past the city's Kowloon waterfront, home to luxury hotels and shopping malls. Police made several arrests as the tear gas sent hundreds fleeing towards the harbour. While the November 24 district elections delivered an overwhelming victory to pro-democracy candidates, activists have pledged to maintain the momentum of the anti-government movement. The protesters' demands include an end to Beijing's alleged meddling in the freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997, universal suffrage and an inquiry into police use of force. The unrest since June has at times forced the closure of government offices, businesses, schools and the international airport, helping drive the city into recession for the first time in a decade in the third quarter.

Hong Kong: New rallies to take place today after weekend of unrest

Protests that have paralysed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-fire-tear-gas-to-disperse-anti-government-protesters-265558">Hong Kong for nearly six months</a> are pushing residents to seek new lives abroad, with many turning to nearby democratic Taiwan to escape the uncertainty at home.

Taiwan has long attracted Hong Kongers seeking an alternative to their city's frenetic pace and sky-high rents.

But the number granted short-term and permanent residency in Taiwan rose nearly 30 per cent to over 4,000 between January and September from a year earlier, with investment from Hong Kong almost doubling.

Leonardo Wong was in the southern Taiwanese city of Kaohsiung last month scouting locations for a restaurant he plans to open when he moves to the island in January.

"Hong Kong is no longer safe. You don't know what would happen tomorrow. There are too many external forces that could change the course of things," the 27-year-old told AFP.

"Now it feels rather like things could never go back to the way they were. We can't see what kind of future (Hong Kong) is heading towards."

Taiwan does not recognise the legal concept of asylum or accept refugee applications, fearful of a potential influx from the authoritarian mainland.

But Hong Kongers can apply to live on the island through a variety of means, including investment visas.

'A city with hope'

Former system analyst Chow Chung-ming recently obtained a residency permit through a scheme that requires a Tw$6 million ($197,000) investment,&nbsp;a fraction of the costs associated with other popular immigration destinations such as Australia, Canada and the United States.

The 41-year-old moved to Kaohsiung attracted partly by lower rents, which have helped him realise a childhood dream of opening a cat cafe this July, but also the island's relative freedoms.

"In Taiwan, freedom of speech is in the present tense. People can elect the president and lawmakers,&nbsp;rights that Hong Kongers don't have and I don't see any chance of ever having," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pensioners-and-students-gather-for-hong-kong-protest-265423">Protests in Hong Kong erupted in response to proposed legislation</a> that would have allowed extraditions to the mainland, but have snowballed into demands for greater freedoms in the city.

Beijing officially espouses a so-called "one country, two systems" policy on Hong Kong, allowing the city greater freedoms and rule of law, but protesters argue that has been gradually eroded.

A 50-year guarantee of that status will expire in 2047, with many Hong Kongers convinced their freedoms will keep shrinking until the city is fully absorbed into the mainland.

"I think the tightening on freedom will continue in Hong Kong until it's 'one country, one system'," Chow said.

The current departure of Hong Kongers abroad is described by some as a "third wave", after many residents went overseas ahead of the 1997 British handover and, in smaller numbers, after the 2014 failure of the pro-democracy "Umbrella Movement".

Businesswoman Suki Lui has regularly participated in pro-democracy protests, but she now plans to relocate to Taiwan, hoping to give her two-year-old daughter a better future.

"My emotions have gone through so many ups and downs and I feel I have endured more emotion than I can handle," the 37-year-old said.

"I hope she can get a better education, can enjoy freedom, can realise her dreams in the future... I hope she can choose and live in a city with hope."&nbsp;

'Safeguard Taiwan'

But even those who move to Taiwan will live under a cloud cast by China.

Beijing sees the self-ruled island as part of its territory and has vowed to seize it, by force if necessary, even though the two have been governed separately for the past seven decades.

President Tsai Ing-wen, who took office in 2016, refuses to acknowledge that the island is part of "one China" and has repeatedly voiced support for Hong Kong's pro-democracy protesters.

In response, Beijing has ramped up economic and military pressure on Taiwan and poached many of the island's few remaining diplomatic allies.

Tsai faces elections in January against an opponent who favours much warmer ties with Beijing and has called the upcoming vote a "fight for freedom and democracy".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-arrests-belizean-taiwanese-citizens-over-alleged-meddling-in-hong-kong-affairs-265421">Some displaced Hong Kongers</a> hope the island will heed the lessons of the unrest in their home city.

"I can't vote yet but I hope people will vote for someone who can safeguard Taiwan," said Chow.&nbsp;

Phoenix Law, 30, said she moved to Taiwan in September drawn by the island's greater freedoms.

"If people (in Taiwan) don't accept what the president does, they can resist," she said.

"I hope Taiwanese people are on alert after seeing the situation in Hong Kong. Don't trust the Chinese Communist Party, what they say may sound nice but that are all lies."

Protests that have paralysed Hong Kong for nearly six months are pushing residents to seek new lives abroad, with many turning to nearby democratic Taiwan to escape the uncertainty at home.

Protests that have paralysed Hong Kong for nearly six months are pushing residents to seek new lives abroad, with many turning to nearby democratic Taiwan to escape the uncertainty at home. Taiwan has long attracted Hong Kongers seeking an alternative to their city's frenetic pace and sky-high rents. But the number granted short-term and permanent residency in Taiwan rose nearly 30 per cent to over 4,000 between January and September from a year earlier, with investment from Hong Kong almost doubling. Leonardo Wong was in the southern Taiwanese city of Kaohsiung last month scouting locations for a restaurant he plans to open when he moves to the island in January. "Hong Kong is no longer safe. You don't know what would happen tomorrow. There are too many external forces that could change the course of things," the 27-year-old told AFP. "Now it feels rather like things could never go back to the way they were. We can't see what kind of future (Hong Kong) is heading towards." Taiwan does not recognise the legal concept of asylum or accept refugee applications, fearful of a potential influx from the authoritarian mainland. But Hong Kongers can apply to live on the island through a variety of means, including investment visas. 'A city with hope' Former system analyst Chow Chung-ming recently obtained a residency permit through a scheme that requires a Tw$6 million ($197,000) investment, a fraction of the costs associated with other popular immigration destinations such as Australia, Canada and the United States. The 41-year-old moved to Kaohsiung attracted partly by lower rents, which have helped him realise a childhood dream of opening a cat cafe this July, but also the island's relative freedoms. "In Taiwan, freedom of speech is in the present tense. People can elect the president and lawmakers, rights that Hong Kongers don't have and I don't see any chance of ever having," he said. Protests in Hong Kong erupted in response to proposed legislation that would have allowed extraditions to the mainland, but have snowballed into demands for greater freedoms in the city. Beijing officially espouses a so-called "one country, two systems" policy on Hong Kong, allowing the city greater freedoms and rule of law, but protesters argue that has been gradually eroded. A 50-year guarantee of that status will expire in 2047, with many Hong Kongers convinced their freedoms will keep shrinking until the city is fully absorbed into the mainland. "I think the tightening on freedom will continue in Hong Kong until it's 'one country, one system'," Chow said. The current departure of Hong Kongers abroad is described by some as a "third wave", after many residents went overseas ahead of the 1997 British handover and, in smaller numbers, after the 2014 failure of the pro-democracy "Umbrella Movement". Businesswoman Suki Lui has regularly participated in pro-democracy protests, but she now plans to relocate to Taiwan, hoping to give her two-year-old daughter a better future. "My emotions have gone through so many ups and downs and I feel I have endured more emotion than I can handle," the 37-year-old said. "I hope she can get a better education, can enjoy freedom, can realise her dreams in the future... I hope she can choose and live in a city with hope." 'Safeguard Taiwan' But even those who move to Taiwan will live under a cloud cast by China. Beijing sees the self-ruled island as part of its territory and has vowed to seize it, by force if necessary, even though the two have been governed separately for the past seven decades. President Tsai Ing-wen, who took office in 2016, refuses to acknowledge that the island is part of "one China" and has repeatedly voiced support for Hong Kong's pro-democracy protesters. In response, Beijing has ramped up economic and military pressure on Taiwan and poached many of the island's few remaining diplomatic allies. Tsai faces elections in January against an opponent who favours much warmer ties with Beijing and has called the upcoming vote a "fight for freedom and democracy". Some displaced Hong Kongers hope the island will heed the lessons of the unrest in their home city. "I can't vote yet but I hope people will vote for someone who can safeguard Taiwan," said Chow. Phoenix Law, 30, said she moved to Taiwan in September drawn by the island's greater freedoms. "If people (in Taiwan) don't accept what the president does, they can resist," she said. "I hope Taiwanese people are on alert after seeing the situation in Hong Kong. Don't trust the Chinese Communist Party, what they say may sound nice but that are all lies."

Hong Kong protesters turn to Taiwan in search of new lives

Hong Kong Airlines, controlled by cash-strapped Chinese conglomerate HNA Group, must shore up its financial position by December&nbsp;7 or risk the suspension or loss of its licence, a Hong Kong air transport regulator said on Monday.

The Air Transport Licensing Authority (ATLA) said in a statement that it attached new conditions to the licence of the city's second-largest airline, requiring it to raise money and maintain certain cash levels.

It said if the conditions are not met, a decision on whether to suspend or revoke the airline's licence will be announced by December&nbsp;7.

Hong Kong Airlines said in a statement posted on its website it is actively communicating with shareholders and other stakeholders to meet the new requirements from ATLA as requested.

"Our operation is still running normally and we remain committed to flying our passengers to their destinations safely," it said.

The airline is not publicly listed and does not disclose financial data, but in April, it told shareholders that it needed at least HK$2 billion ($256 million) in fresh funds or it would lose its operating license.

The carrier told them at the time it had lost HK$3 billion in 2018 and an infusion was crucial, according to people present.

Hong Kong's Transport and Housing Board said in a separate statement on Monday it met with the airline on November&nbsp;27 and expressed "grave dissatisfaction and deep concern" that the carrier's financial position had not improved.

Several <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/air-new-zealand-named-top-carrier-globally-in-annual-airline-awards-264722">airlines</a> have collapsed in 2019 because of financial problems, including India's Jet Airways Ltd, Britain's Thomas Cook and Iceland's WOW.

Hong Kong Airlines was struggling financially even before months of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-series-of-week-long-lunchtime-protests-begin-265716">anti-government protests</a> led to a plunge in visitors to the Asian financial capital.

"As weak travel demand resulting from the social unrest in Hong Kong has continued to affect our business and revenue, Hong Kong Airlines has reduced its capacity and flights in the coming months as well as further consolidated its network under the challenging business environment," it said in its statement.

The airline said on Friday it would further reduce capacity, suspending flights to Vancouver, Ho Chi Minh City and Tianjin.

On Saturday, the carrier said on its website that its in-flight entertainment system would be out of service until further notice.

Hong Kong Airlines, controlled by cash-strapped Chinese conglomerate HNA Group, must shore up its financial position by December 7 or risk the suspension or loss of its licence, a Hong Kong air transport regulator said on Monday.

Hong Kong Airlines, controlled by cash-strapped Chinese conglomerate HNA Group, must shore up its financial position by December 7 or risk the suspension or loss of its licence, a Hong Kong air transport regulator said on Monday. The Air Transport Licensing Authority (ATLA) said in a statement that it attached new conditions to the licence of the city's second-largest airline, requiring it to raise money and maintain certain cash levels. It said if the conditions are not met, a decision on whether to suspend or revoke the airline's licence will be announced by December 7. Hong Kong Airlines said in a statement posted on its website it is actively communicating with shareholders and other stakeholders to meet the new requirements from ATLA as requested. "Our operation is still running normally and we remain committed to flying our passengers to their destinations safely," it said. The airline is not publicly listed and does not disclose financial data, but in April, it told shareholders that it needed at least HK$2 billion ($256 million) in fresh funds or it would lose its operating license. The carrier told them at the time it had lost HK$3 billion in 2018 and an infusion was crucial, according to people present. Hong Kong's Transport and Housing Board said in a separate statement on Monday it met with the airline on November 27 and expressed "grave dissatisfaction and deep concern" that the carrier's financial position had not improved. Several airlines have collapsed in 2019 because of financial problems, including India's Jet Airways Ltd, Britain's Thomas Cook and Iceland's WOW. Hong Kong Airlines was struggling financially even before months of anti-government protests led to a plunge in visitors to the Asian financial capital. "As weak travel demand resulting from the social unrest in Hong Kong has continued to affect our business and revenue, Hong Kong Airlines has reduced its capacity and flights in the coming months as well as further consolidated its network under the challenging business environment," it said in its statement. The airline said on Friday it would further reduce capacity, suspending flights to Vancouver, Ho Chi Minh City and Tianjin. On Saturday, the carrier said on its website that its in-flight entertainment system would be out of service until further notice.

Hong Kong Airlines told to improve finances or risk losing licence

China suspended US warship visits and sanctioned American NGOs on Monday in retaliation for the passage of a bill backing pro-democracy protesters <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-series-of-week-long-lunchtime-protests-begin-265716">in Hong Kong</a>.

The financial hub has been rocked by nearly six months of increasingly violent unrest demanding greater autonomy, which Beijing has frequently blamed on foreign influence.

Last week US President Donald Trump signed the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, which requires the president to annually review the city's favourable trade status and threatens to revoke it if the semi-autonomous territory's freedoms are quashed.

The move came as the world's two biggest economies have been striving to finalise a "phase one" deal in their protracted trade war.

"In response to the unreasonable behaviour of the US side, the Chinese government has decided to suspend reviewing the applications for US warships to go to Hong Kong for (rest and) recuperation as of today," foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said at a regular press briefing.

China had already denied requests for two US Navy ships to dock in Hong Kong in August, without specifying a reason why.

Watch: US and China clash over Hong Kong in the midst of trade talks

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-and-china-clash-over-hong-kong-in-the-midst-of-trade-talks-265164/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Behaving 'badly'

Hua said they would also <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-summons-us-ambassador-over-hong-kong-rights-bill-264512">apply sanctions</a> to a number of US-based NGOs, although failed to give any specifics over the form sanctions would take.

Sanctions will apply to NGOs that had acted "badly" over the recent unrest in Hong Kong, she said, including the National Endowment for Democracy, Human Rights Watch and Freedom House.

There was "already a large number of facts and evidence that make it clear that these non-governmental organisations support anti-China" forces and "incite separatist activities for Hong Kong independence", Hua added.

She accused them of having "great responsibility for the chaotic situation in Hong Kong".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-turn-to-taiwan-in-search-of-new-lives-265669">Protesters in Hong Kong</a> are pushing for greater democratic freedoms and police accountability, but the city's pro-Beijing leadership has refused any major political concessions.

The increasingly violent rallies have hammered the retail and tourism sectors, with mainland Chinese visitors abandoning the city in droves.

The city's finance chief warned Monday that Hong Kong is set to record its first budget deficit in 15 years.

China suspended US warship visits and sanctioned American NGOs on Monday in retaliation for the passage of a bill backing pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong. The financial hub has been rocked by nearly six months of increasingly violent unrest demanding greater autonomy, which Beijing has frequently blamed on foreign influence.

China suspended US warship visits and sanctioned American NGOs on Monday in retaliation for the passage of a bill backing pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong. The financial hub has been rocked by nearly six months of increasingly violent unrest demanding greater autonomy, which Beijing has frequently blamed on foreign influence. Last week US President Donald Trump signed the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, which requires the president to annually review the city's favourable trade status and threatens to revoke it if the semi-autonomous territory's freedoms are quashed. The move came as the world's two biggest economies have been striving to finalise a "phase one" deal in their protracted trade war. "In response to the unreasonable behaviour of the US side, the Chinese government has decided to suspend reviewing the applications for US warships to go to Hong Kong for (rest and) recuperation as of today," foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said at a regular press briefing. China had already denied requests for two US Navy ships to dock in Hong Kong in August, without specifying a reason why. Watch: US and China clash over Hong Kong in the midst of trade talks Behaving 'badly' Hua said they would also apply sanctions to a number of US-based NGOs, although failed to give any specifics over the form sanctions would take. Sanctions will apply to NGOs that had acted "badly" over the recent unrest in Hong Kong, she said, including the National Endowment for Democracy, Human Rights Watch and Freedom House. There was "already a large number of facts and evidence that make it clear that these non-governmental organisations support anti-China" forces and "incite separatist activities for Hong Kong independence", Hua added. She accused them of having "great responsibility for the chaotic situation in Hong Kong". Protesters in Hong Kong are pushing for greater democratic freedoms and police accountability, but the city's pro-Beijing leadership has refused any major political concessions. The increasingly violent rallies have hammered the retail and tourism sectors, with mainland Chinese visitors abandoning the city in droves. The city's finance chief warned Monday that Hong Kong is set to record its first budget deficit in 15 years.

China slaps sanctions on United States for passing Hong Kong rights bill

Hundreds of office workers in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-fire-tear-gas-to-disperse-anti-government-protesters-265558">Hong Kong's business district</a> gathered on Monday for the first in a week of lunchtime protests backing the pro-democracy movement after its resounding victory in district polls held last week in the Chinese-ruled city.

A day earlier police again resorted to firing tear gas to disperse thousands of protesters as they marched past the city's Kowloon waterfront, after first going to the US&nbsp;consulate on Hong Kong island to show gratitude for Washington's support.

There was no such confrontation at the two-hour rally in the central business district on Monday, as some people went back to their offices after their demonstration of solidarity. Others said they would be striking for the full five days.

The gathering in Chater Garden probably drew Hong Kong's best-dressed protesters, and organisers have called on them to come out every day this week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-new-rallies-to-take-place-today-after-weekend-of-unrest-265688">Protests over the last six months</a> have drawn a wide swathe of Hong Kong society,&nbsp;from students to pensioners. Even white-collar professionals, like those in Chater park, have sometimes blocked roads in recent weeks, leading to face-offs with police.

Monday's rally appeared aimed specifically at bringing in more workers from advertising agencies to help build publicity.

Fred, a 24-year-old advertising professional said he and his colleagues had helped create promotional materials in their own time for the so-called "yellow economy", the businesses seen as supporting the pro-democracy movement.

Many pro-democracy protesters have adopted the colour yellow and yellow balloons have been seen at rallies.

"From the advertising perspective, we can help promote the brands that speak out for Hong Kong," said Fred.

Another protester in the park said his advertising agency had closed for the week in solidarity and hoped other agencies would do likewise.

"We are trying to come out and be the first industry to come out and stop working for five days," said 28-year-old Ryan.

"We are just stopping work for companies. But the advertising talent will keep advertising for the movement, designing posters and leaflets."

Watch: Protesters march for 'five demands'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-protesters-march-for-five-demands-265555/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Tear gas

During Sunday's protest, police fired tear gas to disperse thousands of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pensioners-and-students-gather-for-hong-kong-protest-265423">anti-government protesters</a>, some of whom chanted "revolution of our time" and "liberate Hong Kong". That followed a period of relative calm after November 24 district elections delivered an overwhelming victory to pro-democracy candidates.

The protest in the busy shopping district of Tsim Sha Tsui followed a "thanksgiving" march by hundreds to the US&nbsp;consulate.

Shops and businesses in Tsim Sha Tsui closed early as police sprayed volleys of tear gas at demonstrators, arresting some and forcing hundreds to flee towards the harbour.

The protesters' demands include an end to Beijing's alleged meddling in the freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997, universal suffrage and an inquiry into police use of force.

The unrest since June has at times forced the closure of government offices, businesses, schools and the international airport, helping drive the city into recession for the first time in a decade in the third quarter.

Hundreds of office workers in Hong Kong's business district gathered on Monday for the first in a week of lunchtime protests backing the pro-democracy movement after its resounding victory in district polls held last week in the Chinese-ruled city.

Hundreds of office workers in Hong Kong's business district gathered on Monday for the first in a week of lunchtime protests backing the pro-democracy movement after its resounding victory in district polls held last week in the Chinese-ruled city. A day earlier police again resorted to firing tear gas to disperse thousands of protesters as they marched past the city's Kowloon waterfront, after first going to the US consulate on Hong Kong island to show gratitude for Washington's support. There was no such confrontation at the two-hour rally in the central business district on Monday, as some people went back to their offices after their demonstration of solidarity. Others said they would be striking for the full five days. The gathering in Chater Garden probably drew Hong Kong's best-dressed protesters, and organisers have called on them to come out every day this week. Protests over the last six months have drawn a wide swathe of Hong Kong society, from students to pensioners. Even white-collar professionals, like those in Chater park, have sometimes blocked roads in recent weeks, leading to face-offs with police. Monday's rally appeared aimed specifically at bringing in more workers from advertising agencies to help build publicity. Fred, a 24-year-old advertising professional said he and his colleagues had helped create promotional materials in their own time for the so-called "yellow economy", the businesses seen as supporting the pro-democracy movement. Many pro-democracy protesters have adopted the colour yellow and yellow balloons have been seen at rallies. "From the advertising perspective, we can help promote the brands that speak out for Hong Kong," said Fred. Another protester in the park said his advertising agency had closed for the week in solidarity and hoped other agencies would do likewise. "We are trying to come out and be the first industry to come out and stop working for five days," said 28-year-old Ryan. "We are just stopping work for companies. But the advertising talent will keep advertising for the movement, designing posters and leaflets." Watch: Protesters march for 'five demands' Tear gas During Sunday's protest, police fired tear gas to disperse thousands of anti-government protesters, some of whom chanted "revolution of our time" and "liberate Hong Kong". That followed a period of relative calm after November 24 district elections delivered an overwhelming victory to pro-democracy candidates. The protest in the busy shopping district of Tsim Sha Tsui followed a "thanksgiving" march by hundreds to the US consulate. Shops and businesses in Tsim Sha Tsui closed early as police sprayed volleys of tear gas at demonstrators, arresting some and forcing hundreds to flee towards the harbour. The protesters' demands include an end to Beijing's alleged meddling in the freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997, universal suffrage and an inquiry into police use of force. The unrest since June has at times forced the closure of government offices, businesses, schools and the international airport, helping drive the city into recession for the first time in a decade in the third quarter.

Hong Kong: Series of week-long lunchtime protests begin

Hong Kong protesters thank US President Donald Trump. Watch video to know more.

Hong Kong protesters thank US President Donald Trump

Hundreds of protesters joined the march to show their gratitude to the US act. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong: Protesters march for 'five demands'

In Hong Kong, Political unrest takes a toll on the tourism industry. It's been the biggest drop in the number of tourists since 2003. Watch this video to find out more on this.

Hong Kong: Unrest takes a toll on tourism industry

China has arrested a citizen of Belize for allegedly colluding with people in the United States to meddle in the affairs of Hong Kong, the official Guangdong Communist Party newspaper reported on Saturday, citing local authorities.

Lee Henley Hu Xiang, a Belizean businessman who lives in China, had funded key members of "hostile forces" in the United States to undermine China's national security, and supported activities that led to chaos in Hong Kong, the Southern Daily said.

It did not give details.

Lee was arrested in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou on November 26 by the Guangzhou State Security bureau, the report said.

Authorities in Guangzhou could not be immediately reached for comment.

Separately, the newspaper confirmed that a Taiwanese man, Lee Meng-Chu, was also arrested by police in nearby Shenzhen city on Oct 31, for allegedly stealing state secrets for foreign forces after he made a trip to Hong Kong in August to support "anti-China" activities.

Lee, an adviser from a small township in Taiwan, had been missing since Aug. 19 after travelling to Shenzhen.

He was being investigated for "engaging in criminal acts that endanger state security", a spokesman for the Taiwan Affairs Office of China's State Council said in September.

Hong Kong - a business and trade gateway for China as an international financial centre - has been mired in often violent anti-government protests for nearly six months.

The unrest has plunged the former British colony into its biggest political crisis in decades, at times forcing businesses, government, schools and even the international airport to close.

"The attempt by those anti-China, Hong Kong chaos-mongering people to pressure China through exploiting foreign anti-China forces will eventually be a clown act, like a mantis trying to stop a chariot," state news agency Xinhua said in a commentary published on Saturday.

"Hong Kong will not sink in this way. The heartless scumbags will inevitably be swept into the ash heap of history," it said.

China has arrested a citizen of Belize for allegedly colluding with people in the United States to meddle in the affairs of Hong Kong, the official Guangdong Communist Party newspaper reported on Saturday, citing local authorities.

China has arrested a citizen of Belize for allegedly colluding with people in the United States to meddle in the affairs of Hong Kong, the official Guangdong Communist Party newspaper reported on Saturday, citing local authorities. Lee Henley Hu Xiang, a Belizean businessman who lives in China, had funded key members of "hostile forces" in the United States to undermine China's national security, and supported activities that led to chaos in Hong Kong, the Southern Daily said. It did not give details. Lee was arrested in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou on November 26 by the Guangzhou State Security bureau, the report said. Authorities in Guangzhou could not be immediately reached for comment. Separately, the newspaper confirmed that a Taiwanese man, Lee Meng-Chu, was also arrested by police in nearby Shenzhen city on Oct 31, for allegedly stealing state secrets for foreign forces after he made a trip to Hong Kong in August to support "anti-China" activities. Lee, an adviser from a small township in Taiwan, had been missing since Aug. 19 after travelling to Shenzhen. He was being investigated for "engaging in criminal acts that endanger state security", a spokesman for the Taiwan Affairs Office of China's State Council said in September. Hong Kong - a business and trade gateway for China as an international financial centre - has been mired in often violent anti-government protests for nearly six months. The unrest has plunged the former British colony into its biggest political crisis in decades, at times forcing businesses, government, schools and even the international airport to close. "The attempt by those anti-China, Hong Kong chaos-mongering people to pressure China through exploiting foreign anti-China forces will eventually be a clown act, like a mantis trying to stop a chariot," state news agency Xinhua said in a commentary published on Saturday. "Hong Kong will not sink in this way. The heartless scumbags will inevitably be swept into the ash heap of history," it said.

China arrests Belizean, Taiwanese citizens over alleged meddling in Hong Kong affairs

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - November 29th, 2019

US and China clash over Hong Kong in the midst of trade talks. Watch video to know more.

US and China clash over Hong Kong in the midst of trade talks

Protests take a toll on Hong Kong economy. In this video, WION chat with Hong Kong Journalist Laurel Chor.

WION Dispatch: Protests take toll on Hong Kong economy

Equity markets witnessed profit booking on Friday amid expectations of slower GDP numbers for the September quarter and weak global cues.

Investors also tracked trends after the passage of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../draped-in-us-flag-protestors-stage-thanksgiving -rally-after-trump-signs-hong-kong-democracy-act-265122">Hong Kong pro-democracy bill</a> in Washington that could derail trade talks between the United States and China.

At the closing bell, the BSE S&amp;P Sensex was down by 336 points or 0.82 per cent to 40,704. The Nifty 50 tumbled down by 95 points or 0.78 per cent at 12,056.

All sectoral indices at the National Stock Exchange were in the red except for Nifty realty which was up by 0.98 per cent. But Nifty media was down by 2.4 per cent, PSU bank by 1.7 per cent metal by 1.2 per cent, auto by 1.1 per cent and FMCG by 0.9 per cent.

Among stocks, metal majors Hindalco and Vedanta lost by 2.1 per cent each while Tata Motors dived by 2.3 per cent.

The other prominent losers were Mahindra &amp; Mahindra, Hindustan Lever, Dr Reddy's, Yes Bank and State Bank of India.

However, Bharti Infratel continued to climb up and added gains of 6.7 per cent at Rs 273.80 per share while Bharti Airtel was up by 1.1 per cent. Adani Ports, utility major NTPC and HDFC Bank were also in the green.

Meanwhile, Asian markets slipped as investors turned cautious, fearing a new US law backing Hong Kong protesters could put hurdles in efforts to end the US-China trade conflict.

Hong Kong led the losses, dropping by 2 per cent while South Korean shares lost by 1.4 per cent and Japan's Nikkei eased by 0.5 per cent.

Equity markets witnessed profit booking on Friday amid expectations of slower GDP numbers for the September quarter and weak global cues. Investors also tracked trends after the passage of the Hong Kong pro-democracy bill in Washington that could derail trade talks between the United States and China.

Equity markets witnessed profit booking on Friday amid expectations of slower GDP numbers for the September quarter and weak global cues. Investors also tracked trends after the passage of the Hong Kong pro-democracy bill in Washington that could derail trade talks between the United States and China. At the closing bell, the BSE S&P Sensex was down by 336 points or 0.82 per cent to 40,704. The Nifty 50 tumbled down by 95 points or 0.78 per cent at 12,056. All sectoral indices at the National Stock Exchange were in the red except for Nifty realty which was up by 0.98 per cent. But Nifty media was down by 2.4 per cent, PSU bank by 1.7 per cent metal by 1.2 per cent, auto by 1.1 per cent and FMCG by 0.9 per cent. Among stocks, metal majors Hindalco and Vedanta lost by 2.1 per cent each while Tata Motors dived by 2.3 per cent. The other prominent losers were Mahindra & Mahindra, Hindustan Lever, Dr Reddy's, Yes Bank and State Bank of India. However, Bharti Infratel continued to climb up and added gains of 6.7 per cent at Rs 273.80 per share while Bharti Airtel was up by 1.1 per cent. Adani Ports, utility major NTPC and HDFC Bank were also in the green. Meanwhile, Asian markets slipped as investors turned cautious, fearing a new US law backing Hong Kong protesters could put hurdles in efforts to end the US-China trade conflict. Hong Kong led the losses, dropping by 2 per cent while South Korean shares lost by 1.4 per cent and Japan's Nikkei eased by 0.5 per cent.

Sensex falls by 336 points ahead of GDP data

After US President signed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-signs-hong-kong-democracy-act-china-threatens-firm-countermeasures-264966">Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act</a> on Wednesday, China's foreign ministry today summoned the US ambassador Terry Branstad to lodge a "strong protest".

Chinese vice foreign minister Le Yucheng spoke to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-enter-ruined-polytechnic-university-265013">ambassador Branstad </a>and urged the "US side to correct mistakes and change course."

Chinese foreign ministry in a statement said&nbsp;Yucheng told that US ambassador to "refrain from putting the bill into practice, and immediately stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs, so as to avoid further damage to China-US relations and bilateral cooperation in important areas."

The Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act requires the US president to annually review Hong Kong's trade status. The US House in a unanimous vote had voted for the bill angering China.

Watch Video:

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Trump also signed legislation banning sales of tear gas, rubber bullets and other equipment which was being by Hong Kong police against protesters in the city.

China threatened "firm countermeasures" against the United States after President Donald Trump signed the Hong Kong democracy bill.

"The nature of this is extremely abominable, and harbours absolutely sinister intentions," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

While signing the bill, Trump said he "hoped the leaders and representatives of China and Hong Kong will be able to amicably settle their differences," while adding that he respected Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong police entered the Polytechnic University on Thursday at the end of a nearly two-week siege that saw some of the worst clashes between protesters and security forces.

Trump's move to sign the Democracy act comes amid the&nbsp;US-China trade war with the US president increasingly hinting that the two biggest economies are close to a deal after months of talks.

After US President signed the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act on Wednesday, China's foreign ministry today summoned the US ambassador Terry Branstad to lodge a "strong protest".

After US President signed the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act on Wednesday, China's foreign ministry today summoned the US ambassador Terry Branstad to lodge a "strong protest". Chinese vice foreign minister Le Yucheng spoke to ambassador Branstad and urged the "US side to correct mistakes and change course." Chinese foreign ministry in a statement said Yucheng told that US ambassador to "refrain from putting the bill into practice, and immediately stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs, so as to avoid further damage to China-US relations and bilateral cooperation in important areas." The Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act requires the US president to annually review Hong Kong's trade status. The US House in a unanimous vote had voted for the bill angering China. Watch Video: Trump also signed legislation banning sales of tear gas, rubber bullets and other equipment which was being by Hong Kong police against protesters in the city. China threatened "firm countermeasures" against the United States after President Donald Trump signed the Hong Kong democracy bill. "The nature of this is extremely abominable, and harbours absolutely sinister intentions," the foreign ministry said in a statement. While signing the bill, Trump said he "hoped the leaders and representatives of China and Hong Kong will be able to amicably settle their differences," while adding that he respected Chinese President Xi Jinping. Meanwhile, Hong Kong police entered the Polytechnic University on Thursday at the end of a nearly two-week siege that saw some of the worst clashes between protesters and security forces. Trump's move to sign the Democracy act comes amid the US-China trade war with the US president increasingly hinting that the two biggest economies are close to a deal after months of talks.

China summons US envoy after Trump signs Hong Kong Democracy act

Hong Kong police entered the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-polytechnic-university-searched-one-protester-found-264625">Polytechnic University</a> on Thursday at the end of a nearly two-week siege that saw some of the worst clashes between protesters and security forces.

It was unclear whether any protesters remained at the site as a team of about 100 plain-clothed police moved into the sprawling campus to collect evidence and remove dangerous items such as petrol bombs. Police said any protesters found would receive medical treatment and arrests were not a priority.

The university <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-university-seige-8-students-arrested-as-protests-fizzle-out-263764">became a battleground</a> in mid-November, when protesters barricaded themselves in and clashed with riot police in a hail of petrol bombs, water cannon and tear gas. About 1,100 people were arrested last week, some while trying to escape.

Reuters witnesses at the university said garbage and abandoned gear including sleeping bags, helmets and gas masks were strewn everywhere, but no protesters could be seen.

More than 5,800 people have been arrested since the unrest broke out in June over a proposal to allow extraditions to mainland China, the numbers increasing exponentially in October and November as violence escalated.

Demonstrators are angry at police violence and what they see as Chinese meddling in the freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997, such as an independent judiciary.

China says it is committed to the “one country, two systems” formula put in place at the handover and has blamed foreign forces for fomenting the unrest, an allegation repeated on Thursday in response to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-signs-hong-kong-democracy-act-china-threatens-firm-countermeasures-264966">US&nbsp;law</a>.

"This so-called legislation will only strengthen the resolve of the Chinese people, including the Hong Kong people, and raise awareness of the sinister intentions and hegemonic nature of the US.&nbsp;The US&nbsp;plot is doomed," the Chinese foreign ministry statement said.

Some analysts say any move to end Hong Kong's special treatment could prove self-defeating for the United States, which has benefited from the business-friendly conditions in the territory of 7.4 million residents.

Trade between Hong Kong and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-overtakes-united-states-in-number-of-diplomatic-missions-264784">United States</a> was estimated to be worth $67.3 billion in 2018, with the United States running a $33.8 billion surplus - its biggest with any country or territory, according to the Office of the US&nbsp;Trade Representative.

Li Ka-shing, the city’s most prominent tycoon, told Reuters he was getting used to “the unfounded verbal and text punches” thrown at him by both sides of the political divide in Hong Kong.

Li and his fellow Hong Kong tycoons are under mounting pressure from Beijing to speak out against the protests, which present the most serious challenge to Communist Party rule since Tiananmen.

Hong Kong police entered the Polytechnic University on Thursday at the end of a nearly two-week siege that saw some of the worst clashes between protesters and security forces.

Hong Kong police entered the Polytechnic University on Thursday at the end of a nearly two-week siege that saw some of the worst clashes between protesters and security forces. It was unclear whether any protesters remained at the site as a team of about 100 plain-clothed police moved into the sprawling campus to collect evidence and remove dangerous items such as petrol bombs. Police said any protesters found would receive medical treatment and arrests were not a priority. The university became a battleground in mid-November, when protesters barricaded themselves in and clashed with riot police in a hail of petrol bombs, water cannon and tear gas. About 1,100 people were arrested last week, some while trying to escape. Reuters witnesses at the university said garbage and abandoned gear including sleeping bags, helmets and gas masks were strewn everywhere, but no protesters could be seen. More than 5,800 people have been arrested since the unrest broke out in June over a proposal to allow extraditions to mainland China, the numbers increasing exponentially in October and November as violence escalated. Demonstrators are angry at police violence and what they see as Chinese meddling in the freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997, such as an independent judiciary. China says it is committed to the “one country, two systems” formula put in place at the handover and has blamed foreign forces for fomenting the unrest, an allegation repeated on Thursday in response to the US law. "This so-called legislation will only strengthen the resolve of the Chinese people, including the Hong Kong people, and raise awareness of the sinister intentions and hegemonic nature of the US. The US plot is doomed," the Chinese foreign ministry statement said. Some analysts say any move to end Hong Kong's special treatment could prove self-defeating for the United States, which has benefited from the business-friendly conditions in the territory of 7.4 million residents. Trade between Hong Kong and the United States was estimated to be worth $67.3 billion in 2018, with the United States running a $33.8 billion surplus - its biggest with any country or territory, according to the Office of the US Trade Representative. Li Ka-shing, the city’s most prominent tycoon, told Reuters he was getting used to “the unfounded verbal and text punches” thrown at him by both sides of the political divide in Hong Kong. Li and his fellow Hong Kong tycoons are under mounting pressure from Beijing to speak out against the protests, which present the most serious challenge to Communist Party rule since Tiananmen.

Hong Kong police enter Polytechnic University as siege ends

Trump signs Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act. Watch video to know more.

Trump signs Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act

U.S. President Donald Trump Signs Bills Backing The Protesters Of Hong Kong.

Gravitas: U.S. versus China over Hong Kong: Trump backs protesters

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/asian-shares-climb-as-trump-says-us-china-trade-deal-near-264827">Asian markets</a> mostly fell Thursday as optimism over the China-US trade talks took a jolt after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/were-in-final-throes-of-trade-deal-but-will-see-how-it-goes-in-hong-kong-trump-264769">Donald Trump</a> signed into law a bill recognising Hong Kong's rights, prompting an angry response from Beijing.

Global equities have been surging in recent weeks with Wall Street hitting multiple records on expectations, the much-vaunted negotiations would result in a partial pact soon.

Trump on Wednesday put his name to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-signs-hong-kong-democracy-act-china-threatens-firm-countermeasures-264966">Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act,</a> which requires the president to annually review the city's favorable trade status and threatens to revoke it if the territory's freedoms are quashed.

He also agreed to legislation banning sales of tear gas, rubber bullets and other equipment used by Hong Kong security forces in putting down protests that have wracked the city since June and have battered its economy.

The president spoke of "respect" for his Chinese counterpart <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-major-highway-reopens-authorities-appeal-for-calm-264791">Xi Jinping</a> and said he hoped Beijing and Hong Kong could "amicably settle their differences".

For his part, Trump had seemed reluctant to sign the bill with the trade talks still ongoing, but with almost unanimous US congressional support for the measure, he had little political room to maneuver.

However, China hit out at the decision, calling it "extremely abominable", and threatened "firm countermeasures", though it did not specify what they would be. Hong Kong's government expressed "extreme regret" at the move.

The signing, while not entirely surprising, spooked investors, who had been in an upbeat mood following a string of positive comments from both sides indicating the first part of a wider agreement was close.

"Trump's signing the Hong Kong bill is likely to trigger another risk-off session," said Hao Zhou, senior emerging markets economist at Commerzbank AG. "The phase one deal is likely to be delayed."

Hong Kong fell 0.4 per cent in the morning session and Shanghai shed 0.1 per cent, while China's yuan was also slightly lower.

Singapore slipped 0.3 per cent and Seoul dropped 0.2 per cent while Taipei and Manila also retreated.

However, Tokyo ended the morning up 0.1 per cent, Sydney rose 0.3 per cent and Jakarta added 0.1 per cent.

Wellington climbed one per cent on data showing a pick-up in New Zealand business confidence.

"Now the big question is, does China decide to compartmentalise the Hong Kong issues away from the phase one deal. So that's where the risk lies now," said AxiTrader's Stephen Innes.

Wall Street had provided another record lead following figures showing US growth was faster than originally reported in the July-September period, easing concerns about the world's top economy.

However, China remains under pressure, and a top government adviser on Wednesday warned its economy could expand slower than six per cent this year. The government had fixed a growth target of between six and 6.5 per cent for 2019.

Worries about the trade talks also weighed on oil prices, with traders concerned that the prolonging of the China-US trade war would hit long-term demand.

On currency markets, the pound rallied after a much-anticipated opinion poll suggested Prime Minister Boris Johnson was on course to win a healthy majority in next month's general election.

The huge YouGov poll of around 100,000 people sparked buying in the pound on hopes a big Conservative party win would allow Johnson to push through his Brexit deal and avoid a no-deal divorce from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-election-poll-predicts-conservative-majority-264965">European Union</a>.

Asian markets mostly fell Thursday as optimism over the China-US trade talks took a jolt after Donald Trump signed into law a bill recognising Hong Kong's rights, prompting an angry response from Beijing.

Asian markets mostly fell Thursday as optimism over the China-US trade talks took a jolt after Donald Trump signed into law a bill recognising Hong Kong's rights, prompting an angry response from Beijing. Global equities have been surging in recent weeks with Wall Street hitting multiple records on expectations, the much-vaunted negotiations would result in a partial pact soon. Trump on Wednesday put his name to the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, which requires the president to annually review the city's favorable trade status and threatens to revoke it if the territory's freedoms are quashed. He also agreed to legislation banning sales of tear gas, rubber bullets and other equipment used by Hong Kong security forces in putting down protests that have wracked the city since June and have battered its economy. The president spoke of "respect" for his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping and said he hoped Beijing and Hong Kong could "amicably settle their differences". For his part, Trump had seemed reluctant to sign the bill with the trade talks still ongoing, but with almost unanimous US congressional support for the measure, he had little political room to maneuver. However, China hit out at the decision, calling it "extremely abominable", and threatened "firm countermeasures", though it did not specify what they would be. Hong Kong's government expressed "extreme regret" at the move. The signing, while not entirely surprising, spooked investors, who had been in an upbeat mood following a string of positive comments from both sides indicating the first part of a wider agreement was close. "Trump's signing the Hong Kong bill is likely to trigger another risk-off session," said Hao Zhou, senior emerging markets economist at Commerzbank AG. "The phase one deal is likely to be delayed." Hong Kong fell 0.4 per cent in the morning session and Shanghai shed 0.1 per cent, while China's yuan was also slightly lower. Singapore slipped 0.3 per cent and Seoul dropped 0.2 per cent while Taipei and Manila also retreated. However, Tokyo ended the morning up 0.1 per cent, Sydney rose 0.3 per cent and Jakarta added 0.1 per cent. Wellington climbed one per cent on data showing a pick-up in New Zealand business confidence. "Now the big question is, does China decide to compartmentalise the Hong Kong issues away from the phase one deal. So that's where the risk lies now," said AxiTrader's Stephen Innes. Wall Street had provided another record lead following figures showing US growth was faster than originally reported in the July-September period, easing concerns about the world's top economy. However, China remains under pressure, and a top government adviser on Wednesday warned its economy could expand slower than six per cent this year. The government had fixed a growth target of between six and 6.5 per cent for 2019. Worries about the trade talks also weighed on oil prices, with traders concerned that the prolonging of the China-US trade war would hit long-term demand. On currency markets, the pound rallied after a much-anticipated opinion poll suggested Prime Minister Boris Johnson was on course to win a healthy majority in next month's general election. The huge YouGov poll of around 100,000 people sparked buying in the pound on hopes a big Conservative party win would allow Johnson to push through his Brexit deal and avoid a no-deal divorce from the European Union.

Asian markets hit as Trump sparks China anger with Hong Kong law

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - November 28th, 2019

Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Joshua Wong said on Thursday (November 28) that a U.S. law backing the protests in the Chinese-controlled city was a sign for other countries to "stand with Hong Kong".

Fineprint: US required to seek yearly report on Hong Kong

China warned the United States on Thursday that it would take "firm countermeasures" in response to US legislation backing anti-government protesters in Hong Kong, and said attempts to interfere in the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-enter-ruined-polytechnic-university-265013"> Chinese-ruled city were doomed to fail</a>.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed into law congressional legislation which supported the protesters, despite angry objections from Beijing, with which he is seeking a deal to end a damaging trade war.

Protesters in Hong Kong responded by staging a "Thanksgiving" rally, with thousands, some draped in US flags, gathering in the heart of the city.

"The rationale for us having this rally is to show our gratitude and thank the US Congress and also President Trump for passing the bill," said 23-year-old Sunny Cheung, a member of the student group that lobbied for the legislation.

"We are really grateful about that and we really appreciate the effort made by Americans who support Hong Kong, who stand with Hong Kong, who do not choose to side with Beijing," he said, urging other countries to pass similar legislation.

The law requires the State Department to certify, at least annually, that Hong Kong is autonomous enough to justify favourable US trading terms that have helped it become a world financial centre.

It also threatens sanctions for human rights violations.

The Chinese foreign ministry said the United States would shoulder the consequences of China's countermeasures if it continued to "act arbitrarily" in regards to Hong Kong.

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Le Yucheng <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-summons-us-envoy-after-trump-signs-hong-kong-democracy-act-265018">summoned US Ambassador Terry Branstad</a> and demanded that Washington immediately stop interfering in China's domestic affairs.

Hong Kong's Beijing-backed government said the legislation sent the wrong signal to demonstrators and "clearly interfered" with the city's internal affairs.

China is considering barring the drafters of the legislation, whose US Senate sponsor is Florida Republican Marco Rubio, from entering mainland China as well as Hong Kong and Macau, Xu Xijin, the editor of China's Global Times tabloid, said on Twitter.

'Sinister intentions'

More than 5,800 people have been arrested since the unrest broke out in June over a proposal to allow extraditions to mainland China, the numbers grew in October and November as violence escalated.

Demonstrators are angry at police violence and what they see as Chinese meddling in freedoms promised to Hong Kong when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997, such as an independent judiciary.

China says it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula put in place at the handover, and blames foreign forces for fomenting the unrest, an allegation it repeated in response to the US law.

"This so-called legislation will only strengthen the resolve of the Chinese people, including the Hong Kong people, and raise awareness of the sinister intentions and hegemonic nature of the US," the foreign ministry said. "The US plot is doomed."

Foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang declined to comment on any countermeasures planned by Beijing.

"You better stay tuned, and follow up on this," he said. "What will come will come."

Gao Feng, a spokesman for China's commerce ministry, did not comment directly on whether the law would affect trade talks, saying there were no new details of their progress to disclose. Some analysts say any move to end Hong Kong's special treatment could harm the United States, which has benefited from business-friendly conditions in the territory.

Lull in violence

Anti-government protests have roiled the former British colony for six months, at times forcing businesses, government, schools and even the international airport to close.

Hong Kong has enjoyed a rare lull in violence over the past week, with local elections on Sunday delivering a landslide victory to pro-democracy candidates.

Prominent activists Joshua Wong and Denise Ho addressed the rally on Thursday night, thanking frontline protesters for the passage of the bill. Crowds sang the protest anthem "Glory to Hong Kong", waving their phone torches.

Several hundred people also gathered outside the Polytechnic University, which police entered after a nearly two-week siege.

"The situation in Poly U is still a disaster," said 30-year-old Ng, dressed in black and wearing a surgical mask. "We are out to show we will never forget the Poly U incident."

The university became a battleground in mid-November when protesters barricaded themselves in and clashed with riot police in a hail of petrol bombs, water cannon and tear gas. About 1,100 people were arrested last week.

It was unclear whether any protesters remained on campus as about 100 plainclothes police moved in on Thursday morning to collect evidence and remove dangerous items such as petrol bombs.

Police said they found more than 3,000 molotov cocktails and hundreds of bottles of corrosive liquids.

"The operation is going to finish today," said Assistant Commissioner of Police (Operations) Chow Yat-ming.

He urged any remaining protesters to seek medical treatment, saying arrests were not a priority, though police were seen brushing molotov cocktails for fingerprints earlier in the day.

China warned the United States on Thursday that it would take "firm countermeasures" in response to US legislation backing anti-government protesters in Hong Kong, and said attempts to interfere in the Chinese-ruled city were doomed to fail.

China warned the United States on Thursday that it would take "firm countermeasures" in response to US legislation backing anti-government protesters in Hong Kong, and said attempts to interfere in the Chinese-ruled city were doomed to fail. US President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed into law congressional legislation which supported the protesters, despite angry objections from Beijing, with which he is seeking a deal to end a damaging trade war. Protesters in Hong Kong responded by staging a "Thanksgiving" rally, with thousands, some draped in US flags, gathering in the heart of the city. "The rationale for us having this rally is to show our gratitude and thank the US Congress and also President Trump for passing the bill," said 23-year-old Sunny Cheung, a member of the student group that lobbied for the legislation. "We are really grateful about that and we really appreciate the effort made by Americans who support Hong Kong, who stand with Hong Kong, who do not choose to side with Beijing," he said, urging other countries to pass similar legislation. The law requires the State Department to certify, at least annually, that Hong Kong is autonomous enough to justify favourable US trading terms that have helped it become a world financial centre. It also threatens sanctions for human rights violations. The Chinese foreign ministry said the United States would shoulder the consequences of China's countermeasures if it continued to "act arbitrarily" in regards to Hong Kong. Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Le Yucheng summoned US Ambassador Terry Branstad and demanded that Washington immediately stop interfering in China's domestic affairs. Hong Kong's Beijing-backed government said the legislation sent the wrong signal to demonstrators and "clearly interfered" with the city's internal affairs. China is considering barring the drafters of the legislation, whose US Senate sponsor is Florida Republican Marco Rubio, from entering mainland China as well as Hong Kong and Macau, Xu Xijin, the editor of China's Global Times tabloid, said on Twitter. 'Sinister intentions' More than 5,800 people have been arrested since the unrest broke out in June over a proposal to allow extraditions to mainland China, the numbers grew in October and November as violence escalated. Demonstrators are angry at police violence and what they see as Chinese meddling in freedoms promised to Hong Kong when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997, such as an independent judiciary. China says it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula put in place at the handover, and blames foreign forces for fomenting the unrest, an allegation it repeated in response to the US law. "This so-called legislation will only strengthen the resolve of the Chinese people, including the Hong Kong people, and raise awareness of the sinister intentions and hegemonic nature of the US," the foreign ministry said. "The US plot is doomed." Foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang declined to comment on any countermeasures planned by Beijing. "You better stay tuned, and follow up on this," he said. "What will come will come." Gao Feng, a spokesman for China's commerce ministry, did not comment directly on whether the law would affect trade talks, saying there were no new details of their progress to disclose. Some analysts say any move to end Hong Kong's special treatment could harm the United States, which has benefited from business-friendly conditions in the territory. Lull in violence Anti-government protests have roiled the former British colony for six months, at times forcing businesses, government, schools and even the international airport to close. Hong Kong has enjoyed a rare lull in violence over the past week, with local elections on Sunday delivering a landslide victory to pro-democracy candidates. Prominent activists Joshua Wong and Denise Ho addressed the rally on Thursday night, thanking frontline protesters for the passage of the bill. Crowds sang the protest anthem "Glory to Hong Kong", waving their phone torches. Several hundred people also gathered outside the Polytechnic University, which police entered after a nearly two-week siege. "The situation in Poly U is still a disaster," said 30-year-old Ng, dressed in black and wearing a surgical mask. "We are out to show we will never forget the Poly U incident." The university became a battleground in mid-November when protesters barricaded themselves in and clashed with riot police in a hail of petrol bombs, water cannon and tear gas. About 1,100 people were arrested last week. It was unclear whether any protesters remained on campus as about 100 plainclothes police moved in on Thursday morning to collect evidence and remove dangerous items such as petrol bombs. Police said they found more than 3,000 molotov cocktails and hundreds of bottles of corrosive liquids. "The operation is going to finish today," said Assistant Commissioner of Police (Operations) Chow Yat-ming. He urged any remaining protesters to seek medical treatment, saying arrests were not a priority, though police were seen brushing molotov cocktails for fingerprints earlier in the day.

Draped in US flag, protestors stage 'Thanksgiving' rally after Trump signs Hong Kong Democracy act

US President Donald Trump signs bills backing Hong Kong protesters. Watch video to know more.

WION Dispatch: Trump signs bills backing Hong Kong protesters

Nineteen <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-overtakes-united-states-in-number-of-diplomatic-missions-264784">Chinese</a> officials face punishment for covering up a murder after the victim's body was found buried under a school playground some 16 years after the crime, state media said Wednesday.

Deng Shiping was overseeing the construction of a playground at the middle school where he worked in Huaihua city, central <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sets-up-hong-kong-crisis-centre-in-mainland-open-to-replacing-chief-liaison-264564">Hunan province</a>, when he disappeared in 2003.

The cold case was finally solved after his body was unearthed from the playground in June.

The raft of civil servants accused of concealing the crime includes police officers, local Communist Party committee members, government officials and school staff.

Two suspects have been prosecuted for the murder.

One of the men, Du Shaoping, had been contracted to build the school's playground, according to the official Xinhua news agency.

Deng was overseeing the "quality of construction" of the building project and relations were tense with Du, Xinhua said.

The victim's daughter told Beijing News that Du had given her father gifts and cash, but Deng handed them over to the accounting staff of the school.

Du had told construction staff at the site that Deng was "too strict on the quality of the project and he wants to kill him", Beijing News reported.

The investigation found that Du and another man killed Deng in January 2003 and buried him under the playground.

The day after Deng disappeared, Du's uncle Huang Bingsong,&nbsp;who was also the principal of the school,&nbsp;was seen directing the bulldozer at the building site.

Deng's family reported the disappearance and suggested to police his corpse might be buried under the playground, but said police repeatedly failed to investigate or properly file the case.

After the murder, the principal helped hide the crime by "seeking help from local public security officers and other public servants", Xinhua said.

Xinhua said the 19 officials were found guilty of dereliction of duty or other violations of discipline and law.

Ten of them are awaiting a criminal trial, including six police officers and Huang, according to the Paper, a local daily.

The nine others face administrative punishments, including being sacked or "disciplined".

A total of 13 members of Du's crime group were also arrested and prosecuted for suspected crimes including illegal detention, affray and forced transactions.

Nineteen Chinese officials face punishment for covering up a murder after the victim's body was found buried under a school playground some 16 years after the crime, state media said Wednesday.

Nineteen Chinese officials face punishment for covering up a murder after the victim's body was found buried under a school playground some 16 years after the crime, state media said Wednesday. Deng Shiping was overseeing the construction of a playground at the middle school where he worked in Huaihua city, central Hunan province, when he disappeared in 2003. The cold case was finally solved after his body was unearthed from the playground in June. The raft of civil servants accused of concealing the crime includes police officers, local Communist Party committee members, government officials and school staff. Two suspects have been prosecuted for the murder. One of the men, Du Shaoping, had been contracted to build the school's playground, according to the official Xinhua news agency. Deng was overseeing the "quality of construction" of the building project and relations were tense with Du, Xinhua said. The victim's daughter told Beijing News that Du had given her father gifts and cash, but Deng handed them over to the accounting staff of the school. Du had told construction staff at the site that Deng was "too strict on the quality of the project and he wants to kill him", Beijing News reported. The investigation found that Du and another man killed Deng in January 2003 and buried him under the playground. The day after Deng disappeared, Du's uncle Huang Bingsong, who was also the principal of the school, was seen directing the bulldozer at the building site. Deng's family reported the disappearance and suggested to police his corpse might be buried under the playground, but said police repeatedly failed to investigate or properly file the case. After the murder, the principal helped hide the crime by "seeking help from local public security officers and other public servants", Xinhua said. Xinhua said the 19 officials were found guilty of dereliction of duty or other violations of discipline and law. Ten of them are awaiting a criminal trial, including six police officers and Huang, according to the Paper, a local daily. The nine others face administrative punishments, including being sacked or "disciplined". A total of 13 members of Du's crime group were also arrested and prosecuted for suspected crimes including illegal detention, affray and forced transactions.

19 Chinese officials punished for covering-up murder in 2003

One of Hong Kong's main highway links, the Cross-Harbour Tunnel, reopened early on Wednesday as a lockdown of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-polytechnic-university-searched-one-protester-found-264625">nearby Polytechnic University</a> appeared to be drawing to a close with teams still combing the campus for remaining protesters.

Hong Kong authorities hope that a lull in clashes over the weekend during local elections, where pro-democracy candidates grabbed a landslide victory, can translate into more calm after nearly six months of turmoil.

Chinese authorities reiterated a need "to stop the violence and restore order" after the election.

Reuters also reported that China's leaders had set up a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sets-up-hong-kong-crisis-centre-in-mainland-open-to-replacing-chief-liaison-264564">crisis command centre</a> in the Chinese tech hub of Shenzhen, just across the border from Hong Kong, to deal with protests that have become the biggest populist challenge since China's leader Xi Jinping came to power in 2012.

Despite the euphoria among protesters over the electoral victory, in which democracy advocates swept around 86 per cent of the 452 district council seats, fresh protests are planned for the weekend, including a "no teargas to children march".

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-state-media-say-hong-kong-elections-skewed-264514">city-wide elections</a> drew a record turnout and were seen as a vote of no-confidence against Beijing-backed Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam over her handling of the financial hub's worst crisis in decades.

The restoration of vehicular traffic through the Cross-Harbour Tunnel in the early hours of Wednesday came after anti-government protesters barricaded themselves in the Polytechnic University and blocked the tunnel mouth almost two weeks ago.

Toll booths were smashed, fires lit and bricks concreted onto the highway, severely disrupting traffic between Hong Kong island and the Kowloon peninsula.

Hong Kong television showed a steady flow of vehicles surging into the tunnel when it reopened.

Police still guarded the perimeter of the Polytechnic University as a security team prepared to scour the campus for a second day, seeking protesters who may still be hiding in the maze of buildings.

The red-brick university was turned into a battleground in mid-November when nearly a thousand protesters barricaded themselves inside and clashed with riot police in a hail of petrol bombs, water cannon and tear gas.

Police later formed a security cordon around the campus to trap those inside, eventually making hundreds of arrests. A small number are still believed to be inside.

One Hong Kong newspaper, Sing Pao, published a front-page spread for the second successive day calling for Lam's resignation. "Hong Kong people had enough, Carrie Lam quit," it read.

Demonstrators are angry at what they see as Chinese meddling in the freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

China denies interfering and says it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula put in place at that time.

One of Hong Kong's main highway links, the Cross-Harbour Tunnel, reopened early on Wednesday as a lockdown of the nearby Polytechnic University appeared to be drawing to a close with teams still combing the campus for remaining protesters.

One of Hong Kong's main highway links, the Cross-Harbour Tunnel, reopened early on Wednesday as a lockdown of the nearby Polytechnic University appeared to be drawing to a close with teams still combing the campus for remaining protesters. Hong Kong authorities hope that a lull in clashes over the weekend during local elections, where pro-democracy candidates grabbed a landslide victory, can translate into more calm after nearly six months of turmoil. Chinese authorities reiterated a need "to stop the violence and restore order" after the election. Reuters also reported that China's leaders had set up a crisis command centre in the Chinese tech hub of Shenzhen, just across the border from Hong Kong, to deal with protests that have become the biggest populist challenge since China's leader Xi Jinping came to power in 2012. Despite the euphoria among protesters over the electoral victory, in which democracy advocates swept around 86 per cent of the 452 district council seats, fresh protests are planned for the weekend, including a "no teargas to children march". The city-wide elections drew a record turnout and were seen as a vote of no-confidence against Beijing-backed Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam over her handling of the financial hub's worst crisis in decades. The restoration of vehicular traffic through the Cross-Harbour Tunnel in the early hours of Wednesday came after anti-government protesters barricaded themselves in the Polytechnic University and blocked the tunnel mouth almost two weeks ago. Toll booths were smashed, fires lit and bricks concreted onto the highway, severely disrupting traffic between Hong Kong island and the Kowloon peninsula. Hong Kong television showed a steady flow of vehicles surging into the tunnel when it reopened. Police still guarded the perimeter of the Polytechnic University as a security team prepared to scour the campus for a second day, seeking protesters who may still be hiding in the maze of buildings. The red-brick university was turned into a battleground in mid-November when nearly a thousand protesters barricaded themselves inside and clashed with riot police in a hail of petrol bombs, water cannon and tear gas. Police later formed a security cordon around the campus to trap those inside, eventually making hundreds of arrests. A small number are still believed to be inside. One Hong Kong newspaper, Sing Pao, published a front-page spread for the second successive day calling for Lam's resignation. "Hong Kong people had enough, Carrie Lam quit," it read. Demonstrators are angry at what they see as Chinese meddling in the freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997. China denies interfering and says it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula put in place at that time.

Hong Kong: Major highway reopens, authorities appeal for calm

The United States and China are close to agreement on the first phase of a trade deal, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-china-hold-trade-talks-on-phone-discuss-mutual-issues-264506">US&nbsp;President Donald Trump</a> said on Tuesday, after top negotiators from the two countries spoke by telephone and agreed to keep working on remaining issues.

Trump said Washington was in the "final throes" of work on a deal that would defuse a 16-month trade war with Beijing, but also underscored Washington's support for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-work-out-preliminary-trade-deal-with-united-states-not-afraid-of-retaliating-chinese-president-jinping-263827">protesters in Hong Kong</a>, a potential huge sore point with China.

China said it had summoned US&nbsp;Ambassador Terry Branstad on Monday to protest the passage in the US&nbsp;Congress of the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, saying the bill amounted to interference in a Chinese internal matter.

"We're in the final throes of a very important deal, I guess you could say one of the most important deals in trade ever. It's going very well but at the same time we want to see it go well in Hong Kong," Trump told reporters at the White House.

He said had a very good relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping, and expected him to ensure a positive outcome in the Chinese-ruled city of Hong Kong, where pro-democracy parties won almost 90 per cent of 452 district council seats in Sunday's elections.

"I think that President Xi can make that happen. I know him and I know he'd like to make it happen," Trump said, without elaborating on what exactly he expected Xi to do.

Trump's upbeat comments about the trade talks lifted markets, with Wall Street's three major indexes hitting all-time highs on Tuesday.

His remarks followed a telephone call on Tuesday by US&nbsp;Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin with Chinese Vice Premier Liu that was disclosed by China's Commerce Ministry.

It said the negotiators discussed core issues related to the phase one deal and reached "a common understanding on resolving relevant problems."

Completion of a phase one deal had been expected in November, but trade experts and people close to the White House said last week it could slide into the new year, given China's pressure for more extensive tariff rollbacks.

White House adviser Kellyanne Conway told Fox News the United States and China were "getting really close" on a "phase one" trade deal. She said Trump wanted to "do this in phases, in interim pieces because it's such a large, historic trade deal."

Senate Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, an Iowa Republican, told reporters on Tuesday that he believed the initial deal with China could be done before year-end.

He said China had invited Lighthizer and Mnuchnin to visit Beijing for in-person talks and they were willing to go if they saw "a real chance of getting a final agreement."

The US&nbsp;trade representative and the Treasury did not respond to requests for comment. A source familiar with the trade talks said the US&nbsp;officials could go to Beijing after Thursday's Thanksgiving holiday.

The United States and China are close to agreement on the first phase of a trade deal, US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday, after top negotiators from the two countries spoke by telephone and agreed to keep working on remaining issues.

The United States and China are close to agreement on the first phase of a trade deal, US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday, after top negotiators from the two countries spoke by telephone and agreed to keep working on remaining issues. Trump said Washington was in the "final throes" of work on a deal that would defuse a 16-month trade war with Beijing, but also underscored Washington's support for protesters in Hong Kong, a potential huge sore point with China. China said it had summoned US Ambassador Terry Branstad on Monday to protest the passage in the US Congress of the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, saying the bill amounted to interference in a Chinese internal matter. "We're in the final throes of a very important deal, I guess you could say one of the most important deals in trade ever. It's going very well but at the same time we want to see it go well in Hong Kong," Trump told reporters at the White House. He said had a very good relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping, and expected him to ensure a positive outcome in the Chinese-ruled city of Hong Kong, where pro-democracy parties won almost 90 per cent of 452 district council seats in Sunday's elections. "I think that President Xi can make that happen. I know him and I know he'd like to make it happen," Trump said, without elaborating on what exactly he expected Xi to do. Trump's upbeat comments about the trade talks lifted markets, with Wall Street's three major indexes hitting all-time highs on Tuesday. His remarks followed a telephone call on Tuesday by US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin with Chinese Vice Premier Liu that was disclosed by China's Commerce Ministry. It said the negotiators discussed core issues related to the phase one deal and reached "a common understanding on resolving relevant problems." Completion of a phase one deal had been expected in November, but trade experts and people close to the White House said last week it could slide into the new year, given China's pressure for more extensive tariff rollbacks. White House adviser Kellyanne Conway told Fox News the United States and China were "getting really close" on a "phase one" trade deal. She said Trump wanted to "do this in phases, in interim pieces because it's such a large, historic trade deal." Senate Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, an Iowa Republican, told reporters on Tuesday that he believed the initial deal with China could be done before year-end. He said China had invited Lighthizer and Mnuchnin to visit Beijing for in-person talks and they were willing to go if they saw "a real chance of getting a final agreement." The US trade representative and the Treasury did not respond to requests for comment. A source familiar with the trade talks said the US officials could go to Beijing after Thursday's Thanksgiving holiday.

We're in final throes of trade deal but will see how it goes in Hong Kong: Trump

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - November 27th, 2019

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