Global&nbsp;shares&nbsp;slid on Thursday as a fresh&nbsp;row&nbsp;between Washington and Beijing&nbsp;over&nbsp;US&nbsp;bills on&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;could complicate their&nbsp;trade&nbsp;negotiation and delay a "phase one"&nbsp;deal&nbsp;that investors had initially hoped to be inked by now.

MSCI's broadest index of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/flare-up-of-sino-us-tensions-over-hong-kong-knocks-world-shares-off-22-month-high-263395">Asia-Pacific&nbsp;shares</a>&nbsp;outside Japan fell 1.2 per cent, with&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's Hang Seng shedding 2&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;while Japan's Nikkei dropped 1.6 per cent. Chinese mainland&nbsp;shares&nbsp;dropped 0.6 per cent.

US&nbsp;futures&nbsp;dropped 0.5&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;in Asian&nbsp;trade, a day after MSCI's broadest gauge of world stocks fell 0.4 per cent, the biggest fall since early October. On Wall Street, all three major indexes fell, with the losing 0.38 per cent.

The&nbsp;US&nbsp;House of Representatives on Wednesday passed two bills intended to support protesters in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;and send a warning to&nbsp;China&nbsp;about human rights.

The legislation, which has angered Beijing, has been sent to the White House for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-accuses-uk-of-misleading-public-in-election-row-263418">President Donald Trump</a>'s approval. A person familiar with the matter said Trump was expected to sign it.

"China&nbsp;will surely take this as interference into its domestic affairs and is likely to think it will no longer need to make concessions on&nbsp;trade," said Norihiro Fujito, chief investment strategist at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/asian-shares-near-two-month-lows-ahead-of-looming-us-tariff-hike-217382">Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley Securities</a>.

The move came as&nbsp;trade&nbsp;experts and people close to the White House said completion of a "phase one"&nbsp;US-China&nbsp;trade&nbsp;deal&nbsp;could slide into next year, as Beijing presses for more extensive tariff rollbacks, and the Trump administration counters with heightened demands of its own.

Trump said on Oct. 11 that the&nbsp;deal&nbsp;could take as long as five weeks, and investors had initially expected an agreement by mid-November.

Asked Wednesday about the status of the&nbsp;China&nbsp;deal, Trump told reporters in Texas: "I don't think they're stepping up to the level that I want."

Trade&nbsp;jitters sent the 10-year&nbsp;US&nbsp;Treasuries to yield down to 1.707 per cent, near its lowest levels in three weeks and down more than 25 basis points from a Nov. 7 peak of 1.973 per cent, a three-month high.

Similarly in the currency market, the yuan hit three-week lows, trading as low as 7.0450 to the dollar in onshore&nbsp;trade.

The dollar slipped 0.3 per cent&nbsp;against the yen to 108.31, compared to this week's high of 109.07 touched on Monday, while safe-haven gold edged up 0.26 per cent to $1,474.9 per ounce.

The euro was little changed at $1.1075&nbsp;

Tomoo Kinoshita, chief economist at Invesco Asset Management in Tokyo, said the market is unlikely to completely give up hopes on the&nbsp;trade&nbsp;deal.

"There have always been some uncertainties in&nbsp;trade&nbsp;talks but that won't erase positive effects from signs of bottoming out in the global manufacturing sector," he said.

The minutes from the Federal Reserve's previous policy meeting published on Wednesday offered little guidance on what would cause policymakers to change their minds on the&nbsp;outlook&nbsp;after an increasingly divided Fed decided to hit pause in its easing cycle.

Oil prices also dipped, paring some of their 2 per cent&nbsp;gains made on Wednesday after a better-than-expected&nbsp;US&nbsp;crude inventories report and as Russia said it would continue its cooperation with OPEC to keep the market balanced.

Global benchmark Brent futures dropped 0.4 per cent&nbsp;to $62.16.&nbsp;US&nbsp;West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were down 0.39 per cent&nbsp;at $56.79 per barrel in early Thursday&nbsp;trade.

Global shares slid on Thursday as a fresh row between Washington and Beijing over US bills on Hong Kong could complicate their trade negotiation and delay a "phase one" deal that investors had initially hoped to be inked by now.

Global shares slid on Thursday as a fresh row between Washington and Beijing over US bills on Hong Kong could complicate their trade negotiation and delay a "phase one" deal that investors had initially hoped to be inked by now. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan fell 1.2 per cent, with Hong Kong's Hang Seng shedding 2 per cent while Japan's Nikkei dropped 1.6 per cent. Chinese mainland shares dropped 0.6 per cent. US futures dropped 0.5 per cent in Asian trade, a day after MSCI's broadest gauge of world stocks fell 0.4 per cent, the biggest fall since early October. On Wall Street, all three major indexes fell, with the losing 0.38 per cent. The US House of Representatives on Wednesday passed two bills intended to support protesters in Hong Kong and send a warning to China about human rights. The legislation, which has angered Beijing, has been sent to the White House for President Donald Trump's approval. A person familiar with the matter said Trump was expected to sign it. "China will surely take this as interference into its domestic affairs and is likely to think it will no longer need to make concessions on trade," said Norihiro Fujito, chief investment strategist at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley Securities. The move came as trade experts and people close to the White House said completion of a "phase one" US-China trade deal could slide into next year, as Beijing presses for more extensive tariff rollbacks, and the Trump administration counters with heightened demands of its own. Trump said on Oct. 11 that the deal could take as long as five weeks, and investors had initially expected an agreement by mid-November. Asked Wednesday about the status of the China deal, Trump told reporters in Texas: "I don't think they're stepping up to the level that I want." Trade jitters sent the 10-year US Treasuries to yield down to 1.707 per cent, near its lowest levels in three weeks and down more than 25 basis points from a Nov. 7 peak of 1.973 per cent, a three-month high. Similarly in the currency market, the yuan hit three-week lows, trading as low as 7.0450 to the dollar in onshore trade. The dollar slipped 0.3 per cent against the yen to 108.31, compared to this week's high of 109.07 touched on Monday, while safe-haven gold edged up 0.26 per cent to $1,474.9 per ounce. The euro was little changed at $1.1075 Tomoo Kinoshita, chief economist at Invesco Asset Management in Tokyo, said the market is unlikely to completely give up hopes on the trade deal. "There have always been some uncertainties in trade talks but that won't erase positive effects from signs of bottoming out in the global manufacturing sector," he said. The minutes from the Federal Reserve's previous policy meeting published on Wednesday offered little guidance on what would cause policymakers to change their minds on the outlook after an increasingly divided Fed decided to hit pause in its easing cycle. Oil prices also dipped, paring some of their 2 per cent gains made on Wednesday after a better-than-expected US crude inventories report and as Russia said it would continue its cooperation with OPEC to keep the market balanced. Global benchmark Brent futures dropped 0.4 per cent to $62.16. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were down 0.39 per cent at $56.79 per barrel in early Thursday trade.

Shares stumble as China-US row over Hong Kong clouds trade deal outlook

Inside the increasingly empty and trashed campus of a Hong Kong university only a handful of activists held out on Thursday as they desperately searched for ways to escape or hide while squads of police encircled the grounds.

Hong Kong's Polytechnic University is the last campus still occupied after a week that has seen the most intense violence since anti-government protests escalated more than five months ago.

Demonstrators are angry at what they see as Chinese meddling in freedoms promised to Hong Kong when the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997. Beijing has said it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula granting Hong Kong autonomy.

For more than a week-and-a-half, hundreds of protesters had fortified Polytechnic University's Kowloon peninsula campus and often fought fiery street battles with riot police.

But now the number of protesters has dwindled to fewer than 100, turning the grounds that normally teem with 33,000 students and staff into an eerily empty compound scattered with debris and defaced with political slogans.

"I am by myself, all my peers have left, but I am too scared to escape," said Yan, a man in his 30s who said he had been helping in the canteen used by the protesters during the siege.

Unshaven and shoeless, Yan said he was avoiding contact with the handful of others still on the campus because he feared running into undercover police.

He had been hiding in a building for the past two days, and when he heard the sound of Reuters journalists approaching tried to take cover in a stationery cupboard.

"I don't dare to walk around, I don't talk to people," he told Reuters. "I feel scared and helpless. I am stuck."

Another young protester clad in makeshift body armour was patrolling the grounds armed with an axe, saying he was on the lookout for a dozen undercover officers he suspected had infiltrated the campus.

Uneasy calm

Hong Kong has had a brief respite from months of often violent demonstrations, with relative calm across the city for the past two days and nights ahead of a district council election set for Sunday. The government says it is monitoring the situation to see whether the election can be held safely.

Police said they were committed to a peaceful solution and "flexible approach" to ending the university stand-off, and called on the remaining protesters to leave in an orderly manner, promising they would be guaranteed fair treatment.

Some protesters have surrendered while others were held during escape attempts that included clambering down from a bridge to waiting motorbikes and fleeing through the sewers. More than 1,000 have been arrested or registered by police.

Much of the campus is damaged, with rooms vandalised and windows shattered, though electricity and water are still functioning. In a library, most books were untouched but makeshift petrol bombs were left on desks.

Some protesters told Reuters they were holding out not for a showdown with police, but because they were innocent and looking for an escape route.

"I won't consider surrendering. Surrendering is for people who are guilty. None of us inside are guilty," said Michelle, a 20-year-old student.

Graffiti sprayed on campus buildings read: "I have nothing to lose. I have no stake in society."

One protester, dressed in black with gloves, elbow and knee pads, had about a dozen colourful lighters strapped to his chest, apparently to light petrol bombs. He told Reuters the hold-outs were discussing what to do next.

In the past two weeks, protesters have torched buildings, a footbridge, mass transit stations and toll booths at the city's Cross Harbour Tunnel linking Hong Kong island to Kowloon.

The protesters say that they are angry at the way the MTR, Hong Kong's public rail network, has helped riot police, and shutting down key infrastructure forces the government to listen to their demands for universal suffrage and an independent inquiry into police violence, among other things.

The Cross Harbour Tunnel remained shut because of extensive damage, authorities said.

'Erroneous signal'

China has accused the United States and Britain of stirring up trouble in Hong Kong and criticised the US&nbsp;House of Representatives for passing two bills aimed at supporting the protesters and sending a warning to China about human rights.

China opposed the bills and would never allow anyone to undermine the "one country, two systems" principle, or to destroy Hong Kong's prosperity and stability, senior Chinese diplomat Wang Yi said.

China's state Xinhua news agency said a top Chinese official in Hong Kong, Xie Feng, had summoned the US&nbsp;consul-general to denounce the legislation as gross interference and a violation of international law.

The Hong Kong government said the bills would harm Hong Kong's relations with the United States.

"The two acts will ... also send an erroneous signal to the violent protesters, which would not be conducive to de-escalating the situation," the city government said.

Anger over the US&nbsp;legislation, which President Donald Trump is expected to sign, comes as the two countries are locked in delicate trade talks.

Inside the increasingly empty and trashed campus of a Hong Kong university only a handful of activists held out on Thursday as they desperately searched for ways to escape or hide while squads of police encircled the grounds.

Inside the increasingly empty and trashed campus of a Hong Kong university only a handful of activists held out on Thursday as they desperately searched for ways to escape or hide while squads of police encircled the grounds. Hong Kong's Polytechnic University is the last campus still occupied after a week that has seen the most intense violence since anti-government protests escalated more than five months ago. Demonstrators are angry at what they see as Chinese meddling in freedoms promised to Hong Kong when the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997. Beijing has said it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula granting Hong Kong autonomy. For more than a week-and-a-half, hundreds of protesters had fortified Polytechnic University's Kowloon peninsula campus and often fought fiery street battles with riot police. But now the number of protesters has dwindled to fewer than 100, turning the grounds that normally teem with 33,000 students and staff into an eerily empty compound scattered with debris and defaced with political slogans. "I am by myself, all my peers have left, but I am too scared to escape," said Yan, a man in his 30s who said he had been helping in the canteen used by the protesters during the siege. Unshaven and shoeless, Yan said he was avoiding contact with the handful of others still on the campus because he feared running into undercover police. He had been hiding in a building for the past two days, and when he heard the sound of Reuters journalists approaching tried to take cover in a stationery cupboard. "I don't dare to walk around, I don't talk to people," he told Reuters. "I feel scared and helpless. I am stuck." Another young protester clad in makeshift body armour was patrolling the grounds armed with an axe, saying he was on the lookout for a dozen undercover officers he suspected had infiltrated the campus. Uneasy calm Hong Kong has had a brief respite from months of often violent demonstrations, with relative calm across the city for the past two days and nights ahead of a district council election set for Sunday. The government says it is monitoring the situation to see whether the election can be held safely. Police said they were committed to a peaceful solution and "flexible approach" to ending the university stand-off, and called on the remaining protesters to leave in an orderly manner, promising they would be guaranteed fair treatment. Some protesters have surrendered while others were held during escape attempts that included clambering down from a bridge to waiting motorbikes and fleeing through the sewers. More than 1,000 have been arrested or registered by police. Much of the campus is damaged, with rooms vandalised and windows shattered, though electricity and water are still functioning. In a library, most books were untouched but makeshift petrol bombs were left on desks. Some protesters told Reuters they were holding out not for a showdown with police, but because they were innocent and looking for an escape route. "I won't consider surrendering. Surrendering is for people who are guilty. None of us inside are guilty," said Michelle, a 20-year-old student. Graffiti sprayed on campus buildings read: "I have nothing to lose. I have no stake in society." One protester, dressed in black with gloves, elbow and knee pads, had about a dozen colourful lighters strapped to his chest, apparently to light petrol bombs. He told Reuters the hold-outs were discussing what to do next. In the past two weeks, protesters have torched buildings, a footbridge, mass transit stations and toll booths at the city's Cross Harbour Tunnel linking Hong Kong island to Kowloon. The protesters say that they are angry at the way the MTR, Hong Kong's public rail network, has helped riot police, and shutting down key infrastructure forces the government to listen to their demands for universal suffrage and an independent inquiry into police violence, among other things. The Cross Harbour Tunnel remained shut because of extensive damage, authorities said. 'Erroneous signal' China has accused the United States and Britain of stirring up trouble in Hong Kong and criticised the US House of Representatives for passing two bills aimed at supporting the protesters and sending a warning to China about human rights. China opposed the bills and would never allow anyone to undermine the "one country, two systems" principle, or to destroy Hong Kong's prosperity and stability, senior Chinese diplomat Wang Yi said. China's state Xinhua news agency said a top Chinese official in Hong Kong, Xie Feng, had summoned the US consul-general to denounce the legislation as gross interference and a violation of international law. The Hong Kong government said the bills would harm Hong Kong's relations with the United States. "The two acts will ... also send an erroneous signal to the violent protesters, which would not be conducive to de-escalating the situation," the city government said. Anger over the US legislation, which President Donald Trump is expected to sign, comes as the two countries are locked in delicate trade talks.

'Too scared to escape': Isolated protesters hold out on trashed Hong Kong campus

Watch in WION Dispatch: the U.S. passes the Hong Kong rights bill. Watch this video as WION's Correspondent Grace Lee from Hong Kong tells you more on this.

WION Dispatch: U.S. house passes the Hong Kong rights bill

Hong Kong Human Rights bill clears U.S Congress. Donald Trump expected to sign the legislation.

U.S. House passes Hong Kong Rights Bills

The legislation supporting human rights and democracy in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-students-sewer-escape-thwarted-as-rows-with-uk-us-grow-263389">Hong Kong</a> was passed in the United States yesterday. The House, by 417 votes to 0, also approved Senate-cleared legislation that would ban sales of tear gas, rubber bullets and other equipment used by Hong Kong security forces.&nbsp;

It shall now be forwarded to US President Donald Trump.

The White House has not threatened to veto the measure and Trump is expected to sign it, reported AFP.

The Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act passed the House of Representatives by 417 to 0, one day after the Senate unanimously passed the measure, provoking the threat of ''countermeasures'' by Beijing.

According to the bill, the United States president shall annually review the trade status that the US grants to Hong Kong, with sanctions and threats to be imposed in case there are human rights and democracy violations in the city.&nbsp;

The House, by 417 votes to 0, also approved Senate-cleared legislation that would ban sales of tear gas, rubber bullets and other equipment used by Hong Kong security forces.

Owing to this bill, the two economic superpowers could jeopardise a major trade deal with has been in the works for months.

Watch: China slams US bill on Hong Kong

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-china-slams-us-bill-on-hong-kong-263458/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-university-protest-fizzling-out-as-over-1000-arrested-by-authorities-263246">Beijing expressed anger earlier</a> Wednesday after the Senate's unanimous vote, warning of "strong countermeasures" if the bill becomes law, and summoning acting US charge d'affaires William Klein to lodge a protest.

The votes marked an unusually strong show of bipartisanship in divided Washington.

"China is taking aggressive action to impose total control through surveillance, political pressure and, as we saw this weekend, brute force," said Kevin McCarthy, Top House Republican said.

Congress voted, he added, "to protect American interests and hold China accountable for its misconduct."

"For 24 consecutive weeks, the people of Hong Kong have been asking for their democracy, freedoms and promised autonomy to be respected," Senate Democrat Ben Cardin said in a statement.

Republican Senator Marco Rubio said that as the Chinese Communist Party violates "basic rights" of the Hong Kong people, "the United States must make clear that we continue to stand with Hong Kongers fighting for their long-cherished freedoms."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-threatens-united-states-with-countermeasures-over-hong-kong-human-rights-and-democracy-act-263353">The rights bill passed</a> as dozens of pro-democracy protesters stood firm inside a besieged Hong Kong university, where a four-day standoff against police has caught the world's attention.

(With inputs from agencies)

The legislation supporting human rights and democracy in Hong Kong was passed in the United States yesterday. The House, by 417 votes to 0, also approved Senate-cleared legislation that would ban sales of tear gas, rubber bullets and other equipment used by Hong Kong security forces.

The legislation supporting human rights and democracy in Hong Kong was passed in the United States yesterday. The House, by 417 votes to 0, also approved Senate-cleared legislation that would ban sales of tear gas, rubber bullets and other equipment used by Hong Kong security forces. It shall now be forwarded to US President Donald Trump. The White House has not threatened to veto the measure and Trump is expected to sign it, reported AFP. The Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act passed the House of Representatives by 417 to 0, one day after the Senate unanimously passed the measure, provoking the threat of ''countermeasures'' by Beijing. According to the bill, the United States president shall annually review the trade status that the US grants to Hong Kong, with sanctions and threats to be imposed in case there are human rights and democracy violations in the city. The House, by 417 votes to 0, also approved Senate-cleared legislation that would ban sales of tear gas, rubber bullets and other equipment used by Hong Kong security forces. Owing to this bill, the two economic superpowers could jeopardise a major trade deal with has been in the works for months. Watch: China slams US bill on Hong Kong Beijing expressed anger earlier Wednesday after the Senate's unanimous vote, warning of "strong countermeasures" if the bill becomes law, and summoning acting US charge d'affaires William Klein to lodge a protest. The votes marked an unusually strong show of bipartisanship in divided Washington. "China is taking aggressive action to impose total control through surveillance, political pressure and, as we saw this weekend, brute force," said Kevin McCarthy, Top House Republican said. Congress voted, he added, "to protect American interests and hold China accountable for its misconduct." "For 24 consecutive weeks, the people of Hong Kong have been asking for their democracy, freedoms and promised autonomy to be respected," Senate Democrat Ben Cardin said in a statement. Republican Senator Marco Rubio said that as the Chinese Communist Party violates "basic rights" of the Hong Kong people, "the United States must make clear that we continue to stand with Hong Kongers fighting for their long-cherished freedoms." The rights bill passed as dozens of pro-democracy protesters stood firm inside a besieged Hong Kong university, where a four-day standoff against police has caught the world's attention. (With inputs from agencies)

US House passes Hong Kong rights bill, President Trump expected to sign

Many protesters holed up in university as Hong Kong protests simmer down

China&nbsp;resolutely opposes US lawmakers' passing of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-trying-to-settle-university-scuffle-peacefully-one-country-two-systems-to-be-upheld-263534">Hong Kong</a> human rights bill and will&nbsp;never&nbsp;allow&nbsp;anyone&nbsp;to&nbsp;destroy&nbsp;Hong Kong's prosperity and&nbsp;stability,&nbsp;senior&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/turkey-and-china-tie-themselves-in-knots-over-syria-and-xinjiang-257735">Chinese&nbsp;diplomat&nbsp;Wang Yi</a> said on Thursday.

China's foreign ministry said in a statement that Wang,&nbsp;China's state councillor, told former US&nbsp;Secretary of Defense William Cohen during a meeting in&nbsp;Beijing&nbsp;that&nbsp;China&nbsp;will&nbsp;never&nbsp;allow&nbsp;anyone&nbsp;to undermine its "one country two systems" principle.

The Hong Kong police said on Wednesday that they intend to stick to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-house-passes-hong-kong-rights-bill-president-trump-expected-to-sign-263483">peaceful solutions</a> to the standoff at&nbsp;the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU).

Ho Yeung-sing, Chief Superintendent and Commander of Yau Tsim District of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, made the statement outside the PolyU campus, calling protesters to drop their weapons and leave the campus in a peaceful manner.

Additionally, Justice Secretary Teresa Cheng Yeuk-wah, said Hong Kong Special Administrative Region will uphold the ‘one country, two systems’ principle and will work to rebuild its image, during a press conference inside the Chinese embassy in London Wednesday.

The chief superintendent said the police that they had names of around 300 people under the age of 18 who had left the university. He added that while 700 protesters&nbsp;had been arrested, there was still a small group which was refusing to come out.

He said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-students-sewer-escape-thwarted-as-rows-with-uk-us-grow-263389">efforts are being made to clear obstructions</a> and police are keeping maintaining communication with the leaders of different groups. He noted ambulances and first-aid staff are allowed to do their work, and police are now waiting for the remaining protesters to leave the campus voluntarily.

Watch: US House passes Hong Kong rights bill

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-house-passes-hong-kong-rights-bills-263487/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

''Apart from peaceful means, we also adopt a feasible approach to solve the problem. In this regard, we made a special arrangement for underage people. As long as they give up their weapons and leave the campus in a peaceful manner, we do our best in this regard, but we'll record their personal details and then let them go. But, of course, we will reserve the rights to pursue a case later," said Ho.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-university-protest-fizzling-out-as-over-1000-arrested-by-authorities-263246">protesters gathered at the PolyU campus</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;November 11, committing violent acts such as hurling gasoline bombs and shooting arrows at police and government supporters.

"Increasing violence in Hong Kong has continuously affected our core values and the international community's confidence in Hong Kong. This impacts Hong Kong's rule of law. Only through fortifying the implementation of the 'one country, two systems' principle by ourselves and rebuild our home, can we see the Hong Kong that we know once again," said Cheng.

Initially, the protests were triggered by a controversial bill that would have allowed extradition to China, but eventually morphed into a full-fledged movement asking for democracy in Hong Kong.

(With inputs from Reuters)

China resolutely opposes US lawmakers' passing of a Hong Kong human rights bill and will never allow anyone to destroy Hong Kong's prosperity and stability, senior Chinese diplomat Wang Yi said on Thursday.

China resolutely opposes US lawmakers' passing of a Hong Kong human rights bill and will never allow anyone to destroy Hong Kong's prosperity and stability, senior Chinese diplomat Wang Yi said on Thursday. China's foreign ministry said in a statement that Wang, China's state councillor, told former US Secretary of Defense William Cohen during a meeting in Beijing that China will never allow anyone to undermine its "one country two systems" principle. The Hong Kong police said on Wednesday that they intend to stick to peaceful solutions to the standoff at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). Ho Yeung-sing, Chief Superintendent and Commander of Yau Tsim District of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, made the statement outside the PolyU campus, calling protesters to drop their weapons and leave the campus in a peaceful manner. Additionally, Justice Secretary Teresa Cheng Yeuk-wah, said Hong Kong Special Administrative Region will uphold the ‘one country, two systems’ principle and will work to rebuild its image, during a press conference inside the Chinese embassy in London Wednesday. The chief superintendent said the police that they had names of around 300 people under the age of 18 who had left the university. He added that while 700 protesters had been arrested, there was still a small group which was refusing to come out. He said efforts are being made to clear obstructions and police are keeping maintaining communication with the leaders of different groups. He noted ambulances and first-aid staff are allowed to do their work, and police are now waiting for the remaining protesters to leave the campus voluntarily. Watch: US House passes Hong Kong rights bill ''Apart from peaceful means, we also adopt a feasible approach to solve the problem. In this regard, we made a special arrangement for underage people. As long as they give up their weapons and leave the campus in a peaceful manner, we do our best in this regard, but we'll record their personal details and then let them go. But, of course, we will reserve the rights to pursue a case later," said Ho. The protesters gathered at the PolyU campus on November 11, committing violent acts such as hurling gasoline bombs and shooting arrows at police and government supporters. "Increasing violence in Hong Kong has continuously affected our core values and the international community's confidence in Hong Kong. This impacts Hong Kong's rule of law. Only through fortifying the implementation of the 'one country, two systems' principle by ourselves and rebuild our home, can we see the Hong Kong that we know once again," said Cheng. Initially, the protests were triggered by a controversial bill that would have allowed extradition to China, but eventually morphed into a full-fledged movement asking for democracy in Hong Kong. (With inputs from Reuters)

Will never allow anyone to destroy Hong Kong's stability: Senior Chinese diplomat

The US Senate unanimously adopted legislation Tuesday supporting "human rights and democracy" in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/desperate-hong-kong-protesters-explore-sewers-in-campus-escape-bid-263209">Hong Kong</a> and threatening to revoke its special economic status, signalling anger with Beijing about a crackdown on protests in the Chinese territory.

The lawmakers also approved a measure that would ban the sale of tear gas, rubber bullets and other equipment that has been used by security forces to suppress the protests that have rocked Hong Kong for months.

China had expressed its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-decries-hong-kong-protesters-violence-calls-263164">"strong indignation" last month</a> when the US House of Representatives passed a similar measure.

The Senate's Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act would require the US president to annually review the favourable trade status that Washington grants to Hong Kong.

It also mandates sanctions against Hong Kong and Chinese officials who commit human rights abuses including "extrajudicial rendition."

This summer's protests in which millions marched were sparked by a now-abandoned attempt to allow extraditions from Hong Kong to the authoritarian mainland.

Watch: Unprecedented violence in Hong Kong

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-unprecedented-violence-in-hong-kong-263019/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Senate "sent a clear message to Hong Kongers fighting for their long-cherished freedoms: We hear you, we continue to stand with you and we will not stand idly by as Beijing undermines your autonomy," Republican Senator Marco Rubio said.

Passage of the bill marks "an important step in holding accountable those Chinese and Hong Kong government officials responsible for Hong Kong's eroding autonomy and human rights violations."

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee's top Democrat, Robert Menendez, added that the legislation "makes it clear that the US will stand firmly and unambiguously with the legitimate aspirations of the people of Hong Kong."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-defy-lams-surrender-warning-as-authorities-struggle-to-free-university-campus-263094">The protests and the resulting crackdowns</a> have turned parts of Hong Kong into violent battlegrounds for weeks. On Tuesday protesters occupying a university defied warnings to surrender, as skirmishes between police and demonstrators continued.

The Senate bill updates the original Hong Kong Policy Act of 1992.

Senator Ben Cardin noted how Hong Kong has enjoyed a special economic status for years, one that relied on authorities "protecting democracy and human rights" in the territory.

"That was the commitment. And if they don't comply with that, the special status should no longer be available," Cardin said.

The House and Senate will now harmonize the texts into a single bill to pass Congress and go to President Donald Trump's desk for his signature.

The US Senate unanimously adopted legislation Tuesday supporting "human rights and democracy" in Hong Kong and threatening to revoke its special economic status, signalling anger with Beijing about a crackdown on protests in the Chinese territory.

The US Senate unanimously adopted legislation Tuesday supporting "human rights and democracy" in Hong Kong and threatening to revoke its special economic status, signalling anger with Beijing about a crackdown on protests in the Chinese territory. The lawmakers also approved a measure that would ban the sale of tear gas, rubber bullets and other equipment that has been used by security forces to suppress the protests that have rocked Hong Kong for months. China had expressed its "strong indignation" last month when the US House of Representatives passed a similar measure. The Senate's Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act would require the US president to annually review the favourable trade status that Washington grants to Hong Kong. It also mandates sanctions against Hong Kong and Chinese officials who commit human rights abuses including "extrajudicial rendition." This summer's protests in which millions marched were sparked by a now-abandoned attempt to allow extraditions from Hong Kong to the authoritarian mainland. Watch: Unprecedented violence in Hong Kong The Senate "sent a clear message to Hong Kongers fighting for their long-cherished freedoms: We hear you, we continue to stand with you and we will not stand idly by as Beijing undermines your autonomy," Republican Senator Marco Rubio said. Passage of the bill marks "an important step in holding accountable those Chinese and Hong Kong government officials responsible for Hong Kong's eroding autonomy and human rights violations." The Senate Foreign Relations Committee's top Democrat, Robert Menendez, added that the legislation "makes it clear that the US will stand firmly and unambiguously with the legitimate aspirations of the people of Hong Kong." The protests and the resulting crackdowns have turned parts of Hong Kong into violent battlegrounds for weeks. On Tuesday protesters occupying a university defied warnings to surrender, as skirmishes between police and demonstrators continued. The Senate bill updates the original Hong Kong Policy Act of 1992. Senator Ben Cardin noted how Hong Kong has enjoyed a special economic status for years, one that relied on authorities "protecting democracy and human rights" in the territory. "That was the commitment. And if they don't comply with that, the special status should no longer be available," Cardin said. The House and Senate will now harmonize the texts into a single bill to pass Congress and go to President Donald Trump's desk for his signature.

United States Senate passes bill supporting human rights and democracy in Hong Kong

China strongly condemns and firmly opposes the United States Senate's passing of the so-called Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act 2019, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said.

WION Dispatch: China slams US Bill on Hong Kong

By Paul Monod

Hong Kong may seem like an unlikely place for a revolution. In this relatively affluent and privileged city, young people might be expected to be more concerned with making money than with protesting in the streets. Yet day after day, demonstrators in Hong Kong risk injury and death confronting security forces backed by the massive power of the Chinese government.

Among their demands are democratic elections for the city’s Legislative Council and chief executive. Their desire for fundamental change has mounted, and they increasingly see their own lives as lacking meaning unless circumstances change.

Historians have long argued that revolutions are built not on deep misery but on rising expectations. Since the 18th century, societies, clubs and associations of intellectuals have been seedbeds of radical change in countries throughout the world. They provided leadership for the French Revolution in 1789, the European revolutions of 1848 and the Russian Revolution of 1905.

The situation in Hong Kong is revolutionary, too, although the history of past revolutions may not provide much hope of immediate change.

A look at Hungary

The most compelling parallel to Hong Kong may be the Hungarian Revolution of 1956, which attempted to wrest power from a communist regime. It, too, began with a student uprising in favor of democratic elections.

Within a few days, the communist government resigned and a reformist administration was formed under Imre Nagy, who allowed noncommunists to enter political office. This went too far for communist leaders in the Soviet Union. The USSR invaded Hungary, overthrew Nagy’s regime and secretly put him to death.

As with the Hong Kong protests today, the United States gave little official support to the Hungarian Revolution and was unwilling to offer material assistance. Keeping peace in Europe was of vital importance to U.S. policy in 1956, just as good relations with China are now central.

The Hungarian example may provide little solace to the Hong Kong protesters – except, perhaps, if they consider its long-term consequences.

In October 1989, with Soviet influence in Eastern Europe collapsing, the democratic Republic of Hungary was declared on the 33rd anniversary of the 1956 revolution. Those who died during that revolution are now remembered as martyrs.

In China’s own history 
 
Chinese history supplies a more heartening example of a successful student-led uprising: the Revolution of 1911. It was fomented by young men returning from study abroad, who formed political societies to “revive” their country, often disguised as literary discussion groups.

The 1911 Revolution mobilized networks of intellectuals and students throughout China, but it also drew on other social groups: military officers, merchants, coal miners and farmers. The revolution erupted in many parts of China simultaneously and had various outcomes, from utter failure, to the massacre of ethnic Manchus to declarations of Mongol and Tibetan independence. A provisional government emerged by the end of the year in Nanjing.

The Hong Kong protests, however, are too limited in geographical scope and social support to repeat the success of the 1911 revolutionaries.

The subsequent Chinese revolution in 1949, like the 1917 Russian Revolution, followed Leninist theory and was spearheaded by professional party insiders, not by intellectuals. The communists regarded mass protests as potentially counter-revolutionary and as threats to the new order.

What’s next?

The young protestors in Hong Kong seek to avoid the fate of the student demonstrators of Tiananmen Square in spring 1989. Three decades ago, hundreds, perhaps thousands, of protesters were massacred after the communist government invoked martial law. The pro-democracy agenda of the Tiananmen protesters was vague, and they relied on reformers within the party apparatus, who finally betrayed them.

The Hong Kong crowds are focused on specific changes and lack illusions about the party. They will go down fighting desperately, not standing with faint hope in front of tanks. That may give pause to the forces of repression. As the Communist Party of China and any student of history knows, martyrs are the fuel of future revolutions.

 
(Paul Monod is Professor of History, Middlebury)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/is-there-hope-for-a-hong-kong-revolution-127292">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

By Paul Monod Hong Kong may seem like an unlikely place for a revolution. In this relatively affluent and privileged city, young people might be expected to be more concerned with making money than with protesting in the streets.

By Paul Monod Hong Kong may seem like an unlikely place for a revolution. In this relatively affluent and privileged city, young people might be expected to be more concerned with making money than with protesting in the streets. Yet day after day, demonstrators in Hong Kong risk injury and death confronting security forces backed by the massive power of the Chinese government. Among their demands are democratic elections for the city’s Legislative Council and chief executive. Their desire for fundamental change has mounted, and they increasingly see their own lives as lacking meaning unless circumstances change. Historians have long argued that revolutions are built not on deep misery but on rising expectations. Since the 18th century, societies, clubs and associations of intellectuals have been seedbeds of radical change in countries throughout the world. They provided leadership for the French Revolution in 1789, the European revolutions of 1848 and the Russian Revolution of 1905. The situation in Hong Kong is revolutionary, too, although the history of past revolutions may not provide much hope of immediate change. A look at Hungary The most compelling parallel to Hong Kong may be the Hungarian Revolution of 1956, which attempted to wrest power from a communist regime. It, too, began with a student uprising in favor of democratic elections. Within a few days, the communist government resigned and a reformist administration was formed under Imre Nagy, who allowed noncommunists to enter political office. This went too far for communist leaders in the Soviet Union. The USSR invaded Hungary, overthrew Nagy’s regime and secretly put him to death. As with the Hong Kong protests today, the United States gave little official support to the Hungarian Revolution and was unwilling to offer material assistance. Keeping peace in Europe was of vital importance to U.S. policy in 1956, just as good relations with China are now central. The Hungarian example may provide little solace to the Hong Kong protesters – except, perhaps, if they consider its long-term consequences. In October 1989, with Soviet influence in Eastern Europe collapsing, the democratic Republic of Hungary was declared on the 33rd anniversary of the 1956 revolution. Those who died during that revolution are now remembered as martyrs. In China’s own history Chinese history supplies a more heartening example of a successful student-led uprising: the Revolution of 1911. It was fomented by young men returning from study abroad, who formed political societies to “revive” their country, often disguised as literary discussion groups. The 1911 Revolution mobilized networks of intellectuals and students throughout China, but it also drew on other social groups: military officers, merchants, coal miners and farmers. The revolution erupted in many parts of China simultaneously and had various outcomes, from utter failure, to the massacre of ethnic Manchus to declarations of Mongol and Tibetan independence. A provisional government emerged by the end of the year in Nanjing. The Hong Kong protests, however, are too limited in geographical scope and social support to repeat the success of the 1911 revolutionaries. The subsequent Chinese revolution in 1949, like the 1917 Russian Revolution, followed Leninist theory and was spearheaded by professional party insiders, not by intellectuals. The communists regarded mass protests as potentially counter-revolutionary and as threats to the new order. What’s next? The young protestors in Hong Kong seek to avoid the fate of the student demonstrators of Tiananmen Square in spring 1989. Three decades ago, hundreds, perhaps thousands, of protesters were massacred after the communist government invoked martial law. The pro-democracy agenda of the Tiananmen protesters was vague, and they relied on reformers within the party apparatus, who finally betrayed them. The Hong Kong crowds are focused on specific changes and lack illusions about the party. They will go down fighting desperately, not standing with faint hope in front of tanks. That may give pause to the forces of repression. As the Communist Party of China and any student of history knows, martyrs are the fuel of future revolutions. (Paul Monod is Professor of History, Middlebury) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Is there hope for a Hong Kong revolution?

Some anti-government protesters trapped inside a Hong Kong university on Wednesday tried to flee through the sewers, where one student said she saw snakes, but fireman prevented further escape bids by blocking a metal manhole into the system.

Reuters witnesses said fewer than 100 protesters remained inside the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-university-protest-fizzling-out-as-over-1000-arrested-by-authorities-263246">Polytechnic University</a>, ring-fenced 24 hours a day by riot police and barricades after more than 1,000 were arrested from late on Monday.

Some surrendered while others were grabbed in escape attempts that included trying to clamber down ropes to waiting motorbikes.

Some protesters, wearing waterproof boots and carrying torches, resurfaced inside the campus after unsuccessfully probing the sewers - where fast-rising water levels are also a hazard - for a way out during the night.

It was unclear if any had managed to escape that way.

Firefighters, whom the students let on to the campus, were in place to stop any further such attempts to flee, blocking the only feasible entrance into the sewer system in an underground car park.

"The sewer was very smelly, with many cockroaches, many snakes. Every step was very, very painful," said Bowie, 21, a student at Hong Kong University who was forced to turn back.

"I’d never thought that one day I would need to hide in a sewer or escape through sewers to survive. The most unforgettable feeling is fear when I was inside."

She said she and friends were in the dirty water for about an hour, only to find they were no closer to escape.

"When we reached the end, we found we were still in the poly," she said.

Police searched for any escapees during the night with spotlights, without resorting to the tear gas and rubber bullets that marked clashes in recent days.

Police said nearly 800 people had left the campus peacefully by late on Tuesday and they would be investigated, including nearly 300 under the age of 18.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam has called for a humane end to a siege that saw the most intense clashes since the protests escalated more than five months ago.

"We are hopeful that this incident will come to a peaceful end in the near future," university president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-fire-rubber-bullets-at-university-protesters-262848">Teng Jin-Guang</a> told reporters.

"If any protesters are still worried about the process of coming out, I can assure you, because I have the assurance from the police force, if you come out, myself or one of my team members will meet you outside. We will accompany you to the police station to make sure that the whole case is going to be processed peacefully, fairly and humanely."

Police tightened security in the streets around the university, making them safe enough for a late Tuesday visit by the force's new commissioner, Chris Tang, at the end of his first day on the job.

Tang earlier urged the support of all citizens to end the unrest triggered by fears that Beijing is stifling the former British colony's freedoms and extensive autonomy guaranteed in its handover to Chinese rule in 1997.

Tang is under pressure to restore police morale as well as public confidence in a force that has come in for widespread criticism for increasingly violent tactics. Police deny accusations of using excessive force.

Police have made more than 5,000 arrests in connection with the protests since June.

The number of criminal damage cases reported between June and September was up 29.6 per cent&nbsp;on the same period last year, Commerce Secretary Edward Yau said in a written statement. Arson cases were up 57.4 per cent.

Chinese leaders say they are committed to the "one country, two systems" formula put in place in 1997 and have accused foreign countries, including Britain and the United States, of stirring up trouble.

British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab condemned China’s treatment of Simon Cheng, a former employee of Britain’s Hong Kong consulate, who said secret police beat him seeking information about the protest movement.

"We were shocked and appalled by the mistreatment he suffered while in Chinese detention, which amounts to torture," Raab said, according to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman said Cheng had been detained for 15 days and had admitted fully to his offences. All of his legal rights were safeguarded, the spokesman said.

The US&nbsp;Senate unanimously passed the "Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act", which would require the secretary of state to certify at least once a year that Hong Kong retains enough autonomy to qualify for special US&nbsp;trading consideration and would impose sanctions against officials responsible for rights violations.

The bill must be reconciled with similar legislation approved by the House of Representatives.&nbsp;

China summoned a representative of the US&nbsp;embassy in Beijing over the legislation and demanded that the United States stop meddling, the foreign ministry said.

The Hong Kong government expressed "deep regret" at the bill.

The unrest marks the most serious popular challenge to Chinese President<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/chinas-relationships-with-greece-and-italy-are-deepening-eu-is-reaping-exactly-what-it-sowed-263124"> Xi Jinping</a> since he came to power in 2012.

Protesters still have vast stocks of petrol bombs, bows and arrows and other makeshift weapons after a weekend of fiery crashes.

The university on the Kowloon peninsula is the last of five that protesters had occupied to use as bases from which to disrupt the city over the past 10 days, blocking the central Cross-Harbour Tunnel outside and other arteries.

Some anti-government protesters trapped inside a Hong Kong university on Wednesday tried to flee through the sewers, where one student said she saw snakes, but fireman prevented further escape bids by blocking a metal manhole into the system.

Some anti-government protesters trapped inside a Hong Kong university on Wednesday tried to flee through the sewers, where one student said she saw snakes, but fireman prevented further escape bids by blocking a metal manhole into the system. Reuters witnesses said fewer than 100 protesters remained inside the Polytechnic University, ring-fenced 24 hours a day by riot police and barricades after more than 1,000 were arrested from late on Monday. Some surrendered while others were grabbed in escape attempts that included trying to clamber down ropes to waiting motorbikes. Some protesters, wearing waterproof boots and carrying torches, resurfaced inside the campus after unsuccessfully probing the sewers - where fast-rising water levels are also a hazard - for a way out during the night. It was unclear if any had managed to escape that way. Firefighters, whom the students let on to the campus, were in place to stop any further such attempts to flee, blocking the only feasible entrance into the sewer system in an underground car park. "The sewer was very smelly, with many cockroaches, many snakes. Every step was very, very painful," said Bowie, 21, a student at Hong Kong University who was forced to turn back. "I’d never thought that one day I would need to hide in a sewer or escape through sewers to survive. The most unforgettable feeling is fear when I was inside." She said she and friends were in the dirty water for about an hour, only to find they were no closer to escape. "When we reached the end, we found we were still in the poly," she said. Police searched for any escapees during the night with spotlights, without resorting to the tear gas and rubber bullets that marked clashes in recent days. Police said nearly 800 people had left the campus peacefully by late on Tuesday and they would be investigated, including nearly 300 under the age of 18. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam has called for a humane end to a siege that saw the most intense clashes since the protests escalated more than five months ago. "We are hopeful that this incident will come to a peaceful end in the near future," university president Teng Jin-Guang told reporters. "If any protesters are still worried about the process of coming out, I can assure you, because I have the assurance from the police force, if you come out, myself or one of my team members will meet you outside. We will accompany you to the police station to make sure that the whole case is going to be processed peacefully, fairly and humanely." Police tightened security in the streets around the university, making them safe enough for a late Tuesday visit by the force's new commissioner, Chris Tang, at the end of his first day on the job. Tang earlier urged the support of all citizens to end the unrest triggered by fears that Beijing is stifling the former British colony's freedoms and extensive autonomy guaranteed in its handover to Chinese rule in 1997. Tang is under pressure to restore police morale as well as public confidence in a force that has come in for widespread criticism for increasingly violent tactics. Police deny accusations of using excessive force. Police have made more than 5,000 arrests in connection with the protests since June. The number of criminal damage cases reported between June and September was up 29.6 per cent on the same period last year, Commerce Secretary Edward Yau said in a written statement. Arson cases were up 57.4 per cent. Chinese leaders say they are committed to the "one country, two systems" formula put in place in 1997 and have accused foreign countries, including Britain and the United States, of stirring up trouble. British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab condemned China’s treatment of Simon Cheng, a former employee of Britain’s Hong Kong consulate, who said secret police beat him seeking information about the protest movement. "We were shocked and appalled by the mistreatment he suffered while in Chinese detention, which amounts to torture," Raab said, according to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman said Cheng had been detained for 15 days and had admitted fully to his offences. All of his legal rights were safeguarded, the spokesman said. The US Senate unanimously passed the "Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act", which would require the secretary of state to certify at least once a year that Hong Kong retains enough autonomy to qualify for special US trading consideration and would impose sanctions against officials responsible for rights violations. The bill must be reconciled with similar legislation approved by the House of Representatives. China summoned a representative of the US embassy in Beijing over the legislation and demanded that the United States stop meddling, the foreign ministry said. The Hong Kong government expressed "deep regret" at the bill. The unrest marks the most serious popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. Protesters still have vast stocks of petrol bombs, bows and arrows and other makeshift weapons after a weekend of fiery crashes. The university on the Kowloon peninsula is the last of five that protesters had occupied to use as bases from which to disrupt the city over the past 10 days, blocking the central Cross-Harbour Tunnel outside and other arteries.

Hong Kong students' sewer escape thwarted as rows with UK, US grow

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/gold-prices-steady-as-market-awaits-united-states-employment-report-253433">Gold</a> prices rose to their highest in nearly two weeks on Wednesday as US&nbsp;Senate measures on Hong Kong posed a potential roadblock for a trade deal between the United States and China, denting appeal for riskier assets.

Spot gold was up 0.3 per cent&nbsp;at $1,476.50 an ounce by 1015 GMT and US&nbsp;gold futures rose 0.2 per cent to $1,477.

"The US&nbsp;senate passing the Hong Kong democracy bill is raising the further risk of a trade deal running into problems and it's causing some renewed risk-off in the markets," said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-%26-economy/gold-locked-below-1300-as-market-braces-for-fed-meeting-143852">Saxo Bank </a>commodity strategist Ole Hansen.

"We see stocks trading weaker, bond yields moving lower and gold is ticking higher."

The US&nbsp;Senate passed two bills backing human rights in Hong Kong and banning the export of certain munitions to the region's police forces. China condemned the move and called for Washington to stop meddling in its internal affairs.

European stocks steered away from a recent peak and US&nbsp;10-year bond yields slipped to their lowest in nearly three weeks, also pressured by US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's threat to raise tariffs on Chinese imports if a trade deal cannot be reached with Beijing.&nbsp;

Investor eyes will also be on minutes from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nasdaq-ends-at-record-high-dollar-falls-as-us-fed-signals-possible-rate-cut-234814">US&nbsp;Federal Reserve'</a>s October policy meeting, due at 1900 GMT, for additional cues on the monetary policy outlook.

The US&nbsp;central bank cut interest rates three times this year to help to sustain US&nbsp;growth but last month signalled that there would be no further cuts unless the economy takes a turn for the worse.

"The market is pricing in one cut over the next 12 months and that will change very quickly on failure to reach a (trade) deal," Saxo Bank's Hansen added.

Lower interest rates reduce the opportunity cost for holding non-yielding bullion.

Spot gold could rise into a range of $1,480-$1,485 an ounce, according to Reuters technical analyst Wang Tao.

Elsewhere, silver was flat at $17.14, platinum was down 0.1 per cent at&nbsp;$909.14 and palladium was little changed at $1,764.50.

Palladium prices could continue to firm on supply issues, and $2,000 an ounce is a likely scenario for the autocatalyst metal next year, said Ross Norman, a London-based independent analyst.

The metal hit a record high of $1,824.50 on October&nbsp;30, buoyed by a sustained supply deficit.

Gold prices rose to their highest in nearly two weeks on Wednesday as US Senate measures on Hong Kong posed a potential roadblock for a trade deal between the United States and China, denting appeal for riskier assets.

Gold prices rose to their highest in nearly two weeks on Wednesday as US Senate measures on Hong Kong posed a potential roadblock for a trade deal between the United States and China, denting appeal for riskier assets. Spot gold was up 0.3 per cent at $1,476.50 an ounce by 1015 GMT and US gold futures rose 0.2 per cent to $1,477. "The US senate passing the Hong Kong democracy bill is raising the further risk of a trade deal running into problems and it's causing some renewed risk-off in the markets," said Saxo Bank commodity strategist Ole Hansen. "We see stocks trading weaker, bond yields moving lower and gold is ticking higher." The US Senate passed two bills backing human rights in Hong Kong and banning the export of certain munitions to the region's police forces. China condemned the move and called for Washington to stop meddling in its internal affairs. European stocks steered away from a recent peak and US 10-year bond yields slipped to their lowest in nearly three weeks, also pressured by US President Donald Trump's threat to raise tariffs on Chinese imports if a trade deal cannot be reached with Beijing. Investor eyes will also be on minutes from the US Federal Reserve's October policy meeting, due at 1900 GMT, for additional cues on the monetary policy outlook. The US central bank cut interest rates three times this year to help to sustain US growth but last month signalled that there would be no further cuts unless the economy takes a turn for the worse. "The market is pricing in one cut over the next 12 months and that will change very quickly on failure to reach a (trade) deal," Saxo Bank's Hansen added. Lower interest rates reduce the opportunity cost for holding non-yielding bullion. Spot gold could rise into a range of $1,480-$1,485 an ounce, according to Reuters technical analyst Wang Tao. Elsewhere, silver was flat at $17.14, platinum was down 0.1 per cent at $909.14 and palladium was little changed at $1,764.50. Palladium prices could continue to firm on supply issues, and $2,000 an ounce is a likely scenario for the autocatalyst metal next year, said Ross Norman, a London-based independent analyst. The metal hit a record high of $1,824.50 on October 30, buoyed by a sustained supply deficit.

Gold gains as souring US-China relations dent risk appetite

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-rupee-falls-to-historic-low-against-us-dollar-gdp-growth-expected-to-fall-to-24-per-cent-227151">dollar</a> rose on Wednesday and trade-exposed currencies fell after the US&nbsp;president threatened a trade war escalation and China condemned a US&nbsp;senate measure backing pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong.

China's yuan slipped to a new two-week low in overnight trading after US&nbsp;President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-cook-meeting-culminates-with-visit-to-apple-factory-263332">Donald Trump</a> threatened to raise new tariffs on Chinese imports if ongoing trade negotiations fail.

China condemned the US&nbsp;legislation aimed at protecting human rights in Hong Kong, saying that the US&nbsp;should stop interfering.

After four days of falling, the dollar was up 0.1 per cent&nbsp;against both the euro and a basket of currencies.

"Today the main focus is the trade talks between China and the US&nbsp;and we are seeing risk aversion," said Piotr Matys, currency strategist at Rabobank.

Matys said that the US&nbsp;senate's bill in support of Hong Kong could complicate progress towards a preliminary trade deal.

Markets had hoped that a partial trade deal to end the 16-month US-China trade war could be signed at a summit in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chile-police-suspend-use-of-birdshot-against-protesters-after-outcry-over-eye-injuries-263242">Chile</a>, which was scheduled for mid-November. The summit was cancelled, leaving the outlook for a deal unclear.

Adam Cole, chief currency strategist at RBC Capital Markets said that a preliminary "phase one" trade deal could be reached by the end of the year.

"The prospect of a broader more all-encompassing deal will drag on well into next year," he added.

"The market is worrying (about) this sort of exogenous shock to the process by the build-up of tension in Hong Kong - I ultimately doubt that either side will allow that to delay the process," Cole said.

The Canadian dollar fell against the US&nbsp;dollar to its lowest since October&nbsp;11 after a speech by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/asian-markets-mostly-down-after-mixed-lead-from-wall-street-213578">Bank of Canada</a>'s senior deputy governor boosted the perceived likelihood of a rate cut.&nbsp;

Trade-exposed currencies took a hit from the worsening US-China relations. The Australian and New Zealand dollars were both down 0.4 per cent&nbsp;versus the US&nbsp;dollar.

The Norwegian crown was down 0.9 per cent&nbsp;versus the dollar&nbsp;and 0.7 per cent versus the euro.

The Swedish crown tracked these losses, but to a lesser extent, down 0.4 per cent&nbsp;versus the dollar&nbsp;and 0.7 per cent&nbsp;versus the euro.

Demand for safe-have currencies was relatively unchanged, with the Japanese yen up around 0.1 per cent&nbsp;against the dollar and the Swiss franc flat around 0.9905.

Minutes from the US&nbsp;federal reserve's FOMC meeting in October are due at 19.00 GMT. Analysts expect little impact.

The dollar rose on Wednesday and trade-exposed currencies fell after the US president threatened a trade war escalation and China condemned a US senate measure backing pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong.

The dollar rose on Wednesday and trade-exposed currencies fell after the US president threatened a trade war escalation and China condemned a US senate measure backing pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong. China's yuan slipped to a new two-week low in overnight trading after US President Donald Trump threatened to raise new tariffs on Chinese imports if ongoing trade negotiations fail. China condemned the US legislation aimed at protecting human rights in Hong Kong, saying that the US should stop interfering. After four days of falling, the dollar was up 0.1 per cent against both the euro and a basket of currencies. "Today the main focus is the trade talks between China and the US and we are seeing risk aversion," said Piotr Matys, currency strategist at Rabobank. Matys said that the US senate's bill in support of Hong Kong could complicate progress towards a preliminary trade deal. Markets had hoped that a partial trade deal to end the 16-month US-China trade war could be signed at a summit in Chile, which was scheduled for mid-November. The summit was cancelled, leaving the outlook for a deal unclear. Adam Cole, chief currency strategist at RBC Capital Markets said that a preliminary "phase one" trade deal could be reached by the end of the year. "The prospect of a broader more all-encompassing deal will drag on well into next year," he added. "The market is worrying (about) this sort of exogenous shock to the process by the build-up of tension in Hong Kong - I ultimately doubt that either side will allow that to delay the process," Cole said. The Canadian dollar fell against the US dollar to its lowest since October 11 after a speech by the Bank of Canada's senior deputy governor boosted the perceived likelihood of a rate cut. Trade-exposed currencies took a hit from the worsening US-China relations. The Australian and New Zealand dollars were both down 0.4 per cent versus the US dollar. The Norwegian crown was down 0.9 per cent versus the dollar and 0.7 per cent versus the euro. The Swedish crown tracked these losses, but to a lesser extent, down 0.4 per cent versus the dollar and 0.7 per cent versus the euro. Demand for safe-have currencies was relatively unchanged, with the Japanese yen up around 0.1 per cent against the dollar and the Swiss franc flat around 0.9905. Minutes from the US federal reserve's FOMC meeting in October are due at 19.00 GMT. Analysts expect little impact.

Dollar rises as US-China relations worsen over Hong Kong and tariffs

World stocks were knocked off 22-month highs on Wednesday as a renewed flare-up in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/asian-markets-slip-amidst-us-china-trade-war-251380">Sino-US&nbsp;tensions</a> and the creeping return of US&nbsp;recession fears fuelled a bid for bonds and other "safe" assets such as gold.

European equities tumbled half a per cent at the open, edging further off recent four-year highs hit when it had appeared Washington and Beijing were about to agree on the first phase of a trade deal. Wall Street futures were marked lower while oil prices suffered their biggest daily loss in seven weeks.

The mood in markets soured after the US&nbsp;Senate angered China by passing a bill requiring annual certification of Hong Kong's autonomy and warning Beijing against violently suppressing protesters. China demanded the United States stop interfering in its internal affairs and said it would retaliate.

US&nbsp;President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-cook-meeting-culminates-with-visit-to-apple-factory-263332">Donald Trump</a> also threatened to up tariffs on Chinese goods if a trade deal is not reached soon.

"Markets have taken a bit of a wobble due to the talk about Hong Kong, but they had rallied a lot in recent weeks on expectations of a (trade) deal," said Salman Ahmed, chief investment strategist at Lombard Odier.

Ahmed said both sides needed a deal to be signed -- Trump cannot afford a recession because of his re-election bid next year, while China's economy is slowing markedly.

"I think we are looking at a short-term setback rather than a major issue that would derail the process. The bill still has to be signed into law by Trump so there's a high probability he will use it as leverage against China."

MSCI's index of Asia-Pacific shares ex-Japan tumbled 0.7 per cent,&nbsp;Japan's Nikkei fell 0.8 per cent and Shanghai blue chips lost 1 per cent. MSCI's global index slipped 0.3 per cent, ending a three-day winning streak.

Wall Street was tipped for a weaker start with futures down 0.2 per cent.

US shares closed just below record highs on Tuesday, however, and world stocks remain just 0.5 per cent off all-time peaks hit last year.

"It was noticeable that fixed income markets rallied despite equity markets being stable, suggestive of a market that remains cautious about the growth outlook," ANZ told clients.

US&nbsp;10-year Treasury yields, which have fallen in six out of the past seven sessions, slipped 5 basis points to 1.735 per cent, a 2-1/2 -week low.

German bonds fell for the third straight day to touch a 2-1/2 week low,&nbsp;shrugging off European Central Bank Chief Economist Philip Lane's comment that the eurozone economy would not fall into a recession.

"It's all about the sentiment on trade. We have this classical risk-off trade taking place again," Rainer Guntermann, a rates strategist at Commerzbank, said.

Moves on commodity prices and bond markets imply fears of the economic recession may be creeping back.

Japan's October exports fanned those fears further, tumbling at their quickest rate in three years, with shipments to China and the United States suffering big falls.

US&nbsp;crude stocks rose far more than expected, the American Petroleum Institute said, driving Brent crude&nbsp;into a 2.6&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;slide. Brent fell another half per cent, inching towards the $60 mark last breached three weeks ago.

A marked flattening of the curve the gap between two-year and 10-year yields is at its narrowest in more than two weeks -- also hints at a return of recession fears. The curve inverted earlier this year, returning to normal only after three US&nbsp;interest rate cuts.

But Federal Reserve officials have hinted there will be no further easing, for now, a message the US&nbsp;central bank may reiterate later in the day when it releases minutes from its last meeting. Markets are now pricing in just a 0.8&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;chance of a December rate cut&nbsp;

Dour forecasts from retailers Home Depot and Kohl's also fuelled worries about US consumer spending, which has so far been extremely robust, in contrast to manufacturing.

"We've had a bit of topping out of the U.S. consumer in the past couple of months, possibly we are seeing some catch up between consumer and manufacturing sectors," Lombard Odier's Ahmed said.

On currencies, the dollar nudged lower versus the yen to 108.4&nbsp;but firmed 0.13 per cent&nbsp;versus a basket of currencies. Gold rose 0.4&nbsp;per cent.&nbsp;

World stocks were knocked off 22-month highs on Wednesday as a renewed flare-up in Sino-US tensions and the creeping return of US recession fears fuelled a bid for bonds and other "safe" assets such as gold.

World stocks were knocked off 22-month highs on Wednesday as a renewed flare-up in Sino-US tensions and the creeping return of US recession fears fuelled a bid for bonds and other "safe" assets such as gold. European equities tumbled half a per cent at the open, edging further off recent four-year highs hit when it had appeared Washington and Beijing were about to agree on the first phase of a trade deal. Wall Street futures were marked lower while oil prices suffered their biggest daily loss in seven weeks. The mood in markets soured after the US Senate angered China by passing a bill requiring annual certification of Hong Kong's autonomy and warning Beijing against violently suppressing protesters. China demanded the United States stop interfering in its internal affairs and said it would retaliate. US President Donald Trump also threatened to up tariffs on Chinese goods if a trade deal is not reached soon. "Markets have taken a bit of a wobble due to the talk about Hong Kong, but they had rallied a lot in recent weeks on expectations of a (trade) deal," said Salman Ahmed, chief investment strategist at Lombard Odier. Ahmed said both sides needed a deal to be signed -- Trump cannot afford a recession because of his re-election bid next year, while China's economy is slowing markedly. "I think we are looking at a short-term setback rather than a major issue that would derail the process. The bill still has to be signed into law by Trump so there's a high probability he will use it as leverage against China." MSCI's index of Asia-Pacific shares ex-Japan tumbled 0.7 per cent, Japan's Nikkei fell 0.8 per cent and Shanghai blue chips lost 1 per cent. MSCI's global index slipped 0.3 per cent, ending a three-day winning streak. Wall Street was tipped for a weaker start with futures down 0.2 per cent. US shares closed just below record highs on Tuesday, however, and world stocks remain just 0.5 per cent off all-time peaks hit last year. "It was noticeable that fixed income markets rallied despite equity markets being stable, suggestive of a market that remains cautious about the growth outlook," ANZ told clients. US 10-year Treasury yields, which have fallen in six out of the past seven sessions, slipped 5 basis points to 1.735 per cent, a 2-1/2 -week low. German bonds fell for the third straight day to touch a 2-1/2 week low, shrugging off European Central Bank Chief Economist Philip Lane's comment that the eurozone economy would not fall into a recession. "It's all about the sentiment on trade. We have this classical risk-off trade taking place again," Rainer Guntermann, a rates strategist at Commerzbank, said. Moves on commodity prices and bond markets imply fears of the economic recession may be creeping back. Japan's October exports fanned those fears further, tumbling at their quickest rate in three years, with shipments to China and the United States suffering big falls. US crude stocks rose far more than expected, the American Petroleum Institute said, driving Brent crude into a 2.6 per cent slide. Brent fell another half per cent, inching towards the $60 mark last breached three weeks ago. A marked flattening of the curve the gap between two-year and 10-year yields is at its narrowest in more than two weeks -- also hints at a return of recession fears. The curve inverted earlier this year, returning to normal only after three US interest rate cuts. But Federal Reserve officials have hinted there will be no further easing, for now, a message the US central bank may reiterate later in the day when it releases minutes from its last meeting. Markets are now pricing in just a 0.8 per cent chance of a December rate cut Dour forecasts from retailers Home Depot and Kohl's also fuelled worries about US consumer spending, which has so far been extremely robust, in contrast to manufacturing. "We've had a bit of topping out of the U.S. consumer in the past couple of months, possibly we are seeing some catch up between consumer and manufacturing sectors," Lombard Odier's Ahmed said. On currencies, the dollar nudged lower versus the yen to 108.4 but firmed 0.13 per cent versus a basket of currencies. Gold rose 0.4 per cent.

Flare-up of Sino-US tensions over Hong Kong knocks world shares off 22-month high

The Hong Kong Open&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golf-hatton-wins-six-man-playoff-under-floodlights-to-lift-turkish-open-title-261284">golf&nbsp;</a>tournament has been postponed after violence from anti-government protests escalated this week, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-us-defence-chiefs-reaffirm-commitment-to-defend-against-north-korea-262239">Asian Tour</a> and European Tour said on Wednesday.

The 60th-anniversary edition of the tournament had been scheduled to be played from November&nbsp;28 to December&nbsp;1.

"An attempt will be made to reschedule the tournament too early 2020," the European Tour and its co-sanctioning partner at the Asian Tour said in a joint statement.

"The decision has been taken due to the ongoing level of social unrest in Hong Kong," European Tour chief executive Keith Pelley said.

"As the safety of our players, staff, stakeholders and everyone involved in each and every one of our tournaments around the world is our top priority, we feel this is the correct, but unfortunate, course of action."

Several other sporting events, including last month's Hong Kong Tennis Open and the Hong Kong Open squash championships, have been cancelled due to the civil unrest.

An extended, violent siege at Polytechnic University, where police have encircled students and activists, have raised tensions in the city to a new high over the past week.

Pelley had said earlier this month that the tournament would not be affected as the Hong Kong&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;Club in Fanling was far from the city centre where most of the clashes between protesters and the police took place.

The Asian Tour's CEO Cho Minn Thant said they were "optimistic" of organising the event when the situation in Hong Kong stabilises.

The Hong Kong Open golf tournament has been postponed after violence from anti-government protests escalated this week, the Asian Tour and European Tour said on Wednesday.

The Hong Kong Open golf tournament has been postponed after violence from anti-government protests escalated this week, the Asian Tour and European Tour said on Wednesday. The 60th-anniversary edition of the tournament had been scheduled to be played from November 28 to December 1. "An attempt will be made to reschedule the tournament too early 2020," the European Tour and its co-sanctioning partner at the Asian Tour said in a joint statement. "The decision has been taken due to the ongoing level of social unrest in Hong Kong," European Tour chief executive Keith Pelley said. "As the safety of our players, staff, stakeholders and everyone involved in each and every one of our tournaments around the world is our top priority, we feel this is the correct, but unfortunate, course of action." Several other sporting events, including last month's Hong Kong Tennis Open and the Hong Kong Open squash championships, have been cancelled due to the civil unrest. An extended, violent siege at Polytechnic University, where police have encircled students and activists, have raised tensions in the city to a new high over the past week. Pelley had said earlier this month that the tournament would not be affected as the Hong Kong Golf Club in Fanling was far from the city centre where most of the clashes between protesters and the police took place. The Asian Tour's CEO Cho Minn Thant said they were "optimistic" of organising the event when the situation in Hong Kong stabilises.

Golf: Hong Kong Open postponed due to protest violence - Organizers

The last band of anti-government protesters trapped inside a besieged <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-senate-passes-bill-supporting-human-rights-in-hong-kong-263243">Hong Kong</a> university were weighing a narrowing range of options early on Wednesday as police outside appeared ready to simply wait them out.

Reuters witnesses said fewer than 100 protesters remained inside the Hong Kong Polytechnic University after more than 1,000 were arrested since late on Monday.

Some simply surrendered, while others were nabbed in escape attempts that included trying to clamber down ropes onto waiting motorbikes or sneak through sewer pipes.

Police searched for potential escapees overnight with spotlights rather than using the tear gas and rubber bullets that had marked clashes in recent days, heeding calls from Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam for a humane end to a siege that saw the most intense clashes since the protests escalated more than five months ago. [L3N27Z0UY]

They also tightened barricades in the streets surrounding the university, making them secure enough to be visited late on Tuesday night by the force's new commissioner, Chris Tang, at the end of his first day on the job.

Tang earlier urged the support of all citizens to end the unrest triggered by fears that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/a-dangerous-new-phase-for-the-hong-kong-protests-263210">China's central government</a> is stifling the former British colony's freedoms and extensive autonomy guaranteed in its handover to Chinese rule in 1997.

Chinese leaders say they are committed to the "one country, two systems" formula and have accused foreign countries, including Britain and the United States, of stirring up trouble.

Watch: Hong Kong police storm university

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fineprint-hong-kong-police-storm-university-262997/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The unrest marks the most serious popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012.

Some protesters emerged as the sun rose above the campus after a night spent sleeping on yoga mats to express a range of feelings, from defiance to uncertainty.

Others mulled hiding in the maze of campus buildings, as they said a teacher had advised them to do.

"I already know where I will hide," a 19-year-old student, who gave his name only as Paul, said as he emerged in a hoodie, shorts and slippers to ask about breakfast in the canteen.

"I have enough food for at least a week and then will see what happens," he said.

Two protesters in full body armour, wielding metal rods, were going to get some sleep in the library after their night shift watching police movements outside.

"We need some energy to get ready for the big fight. Now that there's not many of us left they may want to come in," said a former student named Marc, 26.

"We know this place, it's our home and it is a maze. And we have weapons. We're not going to give up now, it's too late for that," he said.

Protesters still have stocks of petrol bombs, bows and arrows and other makeshift weapons after a weekend of fiery clashes.

One protester practised firing arrows at a campus tower shortly after dawn.

The university on the Kowloon peninsula is the last of five that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/desperate-hong-kong-protesters-explore-sewers-in-campus-escape-bid-263209">protesters had occupied to use as bases</a> from which to disrupt the city over the past 10 days, blocking the central Cross-Harbour Tunnel outside and other arteries.

"It's still incredible we defended it for such a long time," said a 21-year-old student named Ricky. "Since the police have taken control, many started to feel afraid and left and now many of us feel desperate and unhappy because we lost some support."

The last band of anti-government protesters trapped inside a besieged Hong Kong university were weighing a narrowing range of options early on Wednesday as police outside appeared ready to simply wait them out.

The last band of anti-government protesters trapped inside a besieged Hong Kong university were weighing a narrowing range of options early on Wednesday as police outside appeared ready to simply wait them out. Reuters witnesses said fewer than 100 protesters remained inside the Hong Kong Polytechnic University after more than 1,000 were arrested since late on Monday. Some simply surrendered, while others were nabbed in escape attempts that included trying to clamber down ropes onto waiting motorbikes or sneak through sewer pipes. Police searched for potential escapees overnight with spotlights rather than using the tear gas and rubber bullets that had marked clashes in recent days, heeding calls from Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam for a humane end to a siege that saw the most intense clashes since the protests escalated more than five months ago. [L3N27Z0UY] They also tightened barricades in the streets surrounding the university, making them secure enough to be visited late on Tuesday night by the force's new commissioner, Chris Tang, at the end of his first day on the job. Tang earlier urged the support of all citizens to end the unrest triggered by fears that China's central government is stifling the former British colony's freedoms and extensive autonomy guaranteed in its handover to Chinese rule in 1997. Chinese leaders say they are committed to the "one country, two systems" formula and have accused foreign countries, including Britain and the United States, of stirring up trouble. Watch: Hong Kong police storm university The unrest marks the most serious popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. Some protesters emerged as the sun rose above the campus after a night spent sleeping on yoga mats to express a range of feelings, from defiance to uncertainty. Others mulled hiding in the maze of campus buildings, as they said a teacher had advised them to do. "I already know where I will hide," a 19-year-old student, who gave his name only as Paul, said as he emerged in a hoodie, shorts and slippers to ask about breakfast in the canteen. "I have enough food for at least a week and then will see what happens," he said. Two protesters in full body armour, wielding metal rods, were going to get some sleep in the library after their night shift watching police movements outside. "We need some energy to get ready for the big fight. Now that there's not many of us left they may want to come in," said a former student named Marc, 26. "We know this place, it's our home and it is a maze. And we have weapons. We're not going to give up now, it's too late for that," he said. Protesters still have stocks of petrol bombs, bows and arrows and other makeshift weapons after a weekend of fiery clashes. One protester practised firing arrows at a campus tower shortly after dawn. The university on the Kowloon peninsula is the last of five that protesters had occupied to use as bases from which to disrupt the city over the past 10 days, blocking the central Cross-Harbour Tunnel outside and other arteries. "It's still incredible we defended it for such a long time," said a 21-year-old student named Ricky. "Since the police have taken control, many started to feel afraid and left and now many of us feel desperate and unhappy because we lost some support."

Hong Kong university protest fizzling out as over 1,000 arrested by authorities

China on Wednesday slammed the United States after the US Senate passed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-university-protest-fizzling-out-as-over-1000-arrested-by-authorities-263246">Hong Kong</a> Human Rights and Democracy Act, envisioning support for local protesters, asserting that the bill translates into "overt meddling" in the country's domestic affairs. 
 
"This bill neglects facts and the truth. It applies double standards and it is overt meddling in Hong Kong's affairs and China's internal affairs. This is a serious violation of the international law and fundamental norms regulating international relations. China condemns this and speaks out against this decisively," Foreign Ministry spokesman, Geng Shuang&nbsp;said in a statement. 
 
His statement came hours after the Senate approved a separate bill banning the export of certain kinds of munition to the Hong Kong police and its own version of the act. 
 
The Senate and the House of Representatives, which has approved its version, now have to settle differences, after which the legislation can be sent to President Donald Trump for consideration. 
 
China is calling on the US to abolish such a policy toward Hong Kong "until it is too late" and to "immediately take measures to prevent the bill from becoming law", Geng said. 
 
"China will be forced to take resolute countermeasures for protecting its national sovereignty, and its security and development interests," he added. 
 
If signed into law, the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act will demand sanctions on Chinese and Hong Kong officials identified by the US government as carrying out alleged human rights abuses.

Watch: Unprecedented violence in Hong Kong

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-unprecedented-violence-in-hong-kong-263019/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The US Senate unanimously adopted legislation Tuesday supporting "human rights and democracy" in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/desperate-hong-kong-protesters-explore-sewers-in-campus-escape-bid-263209">Hong Kong</a>&nbsp;and threatening to revoke its special economic status, signalling anger with Beijing about a crackdown on protests in the Chinese territory.

The lawmakers also approved a measure that would ban the sale of tear gas, rubber bullets and other equipment that has been used by security forces to suppress the protests that have rocked Hong Kong for months.

China had expressed its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-decries-hong-kong-protesters-violence-calls-263164">"strong indignation" last month</a>&nbsp;when the US House of Representatives passed a similar measure.

Large-scale protests, triggered by a now-withdrawn controversial extradition bill, have been ongoing in Hong Kong since early June, with the police detaining nearly 4,500 people so far. 
 
Over 1,500 people have been hospitalised after sustaining wounds in clashes and over 400 police officers have been injured. 
 
Tensions have escalated over the past few days, with a violent standoff unfolding at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. 
 
Beijing has repeatedly stated that the situation in Hong Kong is a result of foreign interference in China's domestic affairs and expressed full support for the actions of the local authorities.

The Senate's Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act would require the US president to annually review the favourable trade status that Washington grants to Hong Kong.

(With inputs from agencies)

China on Wednesday slammed the United States after the US Senate passed the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, envisioning support for local protesters, asserting that the bill translates into "overt meddling" in the country's domestic affairs.

China on Wednesday slammed the United States after the US Senate passed the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, envisioning support for local protesters, asserting that the bill translates into "overt meddling" in the country's domestic affairs. "This bill neglects facts and the truth. It applies double standards and it is overt meddling in Hong Kong's affairs and China's internal affairs. This is a serious violation of the international law and fundamental norms regulating international relations. China condemns this and speaks out against this decisively," Foreign Ministry spokesman, Geng Shuang said in a statement. His statement came hours after the Senate approved a separate bill banning the export of certain kinds of munition to the Hong Kong police and its own version of the act. The Senate and the House of Representatives, which has approved its version, now have to settle differences, after which the legislation can be sent to President Donald Trump for consideration. China is calling on the US to abolish such a policy toward Hong Kong "until it is too late" and to "immediately take measures to prevent the bill from becoming law", Geng said. "China will be forced to take resolute countermeasures for protecting its national sovereignty, and its security and development interests," he added. If signed into law, the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act will demand sanctions on Chinese and Hong Kong officials identified by the US government as carrying out alleged human rights abuses. Watch: Unprecedented violence in Hong Kong The US Senate unanimously adopted legislation Tuesday supporting "human rights and democracy" in Hong Kong and threatening to revoke its special economic status, signalling anger with Beijing about a crackdown on protests in the Chinese territory. The lawmakers also approved a measure that would ban the sale of tear gas, rubber bullets and other equipment that has been used by security forces to suppress the protests that have rocked Hong Kong for months. China had expressed its "strong indignation" last month when the US House of Representatives passed a similar measure. Large-scale protests, triggered by a now-withdrawn controversial extradition bill, have been ongoing in Hong Kong since early June, with the police detaining nearly 4,500 people so far. Over 1,500 people have been hospitalised after sustaining wounds in clashes and over 400 police officers have been injured. Tensions have escalated over the past few days, with a violent standoff unfolding at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Beijing has repeatedly stated that the situation in Hong Kong is a result of foreign interference in China's domestic affairs and expressed full support for the actions of the local authorities. The Senate's Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act would require the US president to annually review the favourable trade status that Washington grants to Hong Kong. (With inputs from agencies)

China threatens United States with 'countermeasures' over Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act

Chinese online retail titan<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/hong-kongs-future-is-bright-says-alibaba-262275"> Alibaba</a> could raise almost $13 billion in Hong Kong's biggest <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinese-ai-start-up-megvii-seeks-approval-for-hong-kong-ipo-of-at-least-500-million-sources-263183">IPO</a> for nearly a decade after pricing its shares for the mega sale, reports said on Wednesday.

Asia's biggest company has called the listing a multi-billion-dollar vote of confidence in the city's markets as it is wracked by months of violent protests and the China-US trade war, which have sent its economy into recession.

Alibaba will sell 500 million shares to investors at HK$176, according to Bloomberg News, below the maximum HK$188 of its indicative price range. The number eight is considered auspicious in China.

That could rake in $11 billion but if it chooses to use its over-allotment option to sell a further 75 million shares, the firm could make HK$101.2 billion ($12.9 billion), the South China Morning Post said.&nbsp;

Even at the low end, the listing would still be Hong Kong's largest initial public offering since&nbsp;insurance giant AIA raised $20.5 billion in 2010.

The company had planned to list in the summer but called it off owing to the city's long-running pro-democracy protests and the China-US trade war.

The firm's shares are already traded in New York. The second listing in Hong Kong is expected to curry favour with Beijing, which has sought to encourage its current and future big tech firms to list nearer to home after the loss of companies such as Baidu to Wall Street.

Mainland authorities have also stepped up moves to attract such listings, including launching a new technology board in Shanghai in July.

The listing comes after the city's exchange tweaked the rules to allow double listings, while Chief Executive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kongs-carrie-lam-says-violence-exceeded-calls-for-democracy-police-defend-officers-who-shot-at-protesters-261394">Carrie Lam</a> had also been pushing Alibaba's billionaire founder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/gravitas?page=8">Jack Ma</a> to sell shares in the city.

Chinese online retail titan Alibaba could raise almost $13 billion in Hong Kong's biggest IPO for nearly a decade after pricing its shares for the mega sale, reports said on Wednesday.

Chinese online retail titan Alibaba could raise almost $13 billion in Hong Kong's biggest IPO for nearly a decade after pricing its shares for the mega sale, reports said on Wednesday. Asia's biggest company has called the listing a multi-billion-dollar vote of confidence in the city's markets as it is wracked by months of violent protests and the China-US trade war, which have sent its economy into recession. Alibaba will sell 500 million shares to investors at HK$176, according to Bloomberg News, below the maximum HK$188 of its indicative price range. The number eight is considered auspicious in China. That could rake in $11 billion but if it chooses to use its over-allotment option to sell a further 75 million shares, the firm could make HK$101.2 billion ($12.9 billion), the South China Morning Post said. Even at the low end, the listing would still be Hong Kong's largest initial public offering since insurance giant AIA raised $20.5 billion in 2010. The company had planned to list in the summer but called it off owing to the city's long-running pro-democracy protests and the China-US trade war. The firm's shares are already traded in New York. The second listing in Hong Kong is expected to curry favour with Beijing, which has sought to encourage its current and future big tech firms to list nearer to home after the loss of companies such as Baidu to Wall Street. Mainland authorities have also stepped up moves to attract such listings, including launching a new technology board in Shanghai in July. The listing comes after the city's exchange tweaked the rules to allow double listings, while Chief Executive Carrie Lam had also been pushing Alibaba's billionaire founder Jack Ma to sell shares in the city.

Alibaba eyes $12.9 billion Hong Kong IPO after setting price: Reports

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/university-protesters-in-hong-kong-must-surrender-to-resolve-stand-off-peacefully-carrie-lam-263037">Hong Kong</a> appointed their new police chief, Chris Tang, today. He took office with&nbsp;a warning that "fake news" was undermining the reputation of his police force.

Tang replaced Commissioner Stephen Lo in the face of major anti-government protests in the city, which have now escalated into a scuffle at a university. The protests have been ongoing for the last five months&nbsp;against the government of Hong Kong and the influence of China on the city.

"First of all, regarding our relationship with the community, I understand that there is a certain segment of the community (that) have different views of about police enforcement. But you have to understand that as a law enforcement agency, we have to enforce the law. And we have to maintain the law and order in Hong Kong'', Tang said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-court-overreached-only-we-can-rule-on-constitution-china-263023">Even though the size of demonstrations</a> has dwindled in recent weeks, clashes have become violent and angry after a protestor was shot by the police. Another man, who was set alight is contributing to the agitation of the people. The city of Hong Kong continues to be on lockdown with tear gas serenading otherwise calm streets.

Watch: Hong Kong continues to be on the boil

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''We also realise that there is a lot of fake news, which may undermine the credibility of the police force, which is obviously not true. So what we are trying to do is first of all, for any false accusation, we have to rebut those false accusations, and we have to let the community know that the purpose of our action is only to maintain law and order, so that we (can) dispel any misunderstandings", Tang added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-court-overreached-only-we-can-rule-on-constitution-china-263023">Hong Kong</a>'s chief executive said Tuesday that protesters occupying a city-centre university had to surrender if the three-day stand-off was to be resolved peacefully.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-will-not-sit-back-if-hong-kong-demonstrations-get-uncontrollable-envoy-263010">China insisted Tuesday</a>&nbsp;it held the sole authority to rule on constitutional matters in Hong Kong, as it condemned a decision by the city's high court to overturn a ban on face masks worn by pro-democracy protesters.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Hong Kong appointed their new police chief, Chris Tang, today. He took office with a warning that "fake news" was undermining the reputation of his police force.

Hong Kong appointed their new police chief, Chris Tang, today. He took office with a warning that "fake news" was undermining the reputation of his police force. Tang replaced Commissioner Stephen Lo in the face of major anti-government protests in the city, which have now escalated into a scuffle at a university. The protests have been ongoing for the last five months against the government of Hong Kong and the influence of China on the city. "First of all, regarding our relationship with the community, I understand that there is a certain segment of the community (that) have different views of about police enforcement. But you have to understand that as a law enforcement agency, we have to enforce the law. And we have to maintain the law and order in Hong Kong'', Tang said. Even though the size of demonstrations has dwindled in recent weeks, clashes have become violent and angry after a protestor was shot by the police. Another man, who was set alight is contributing to the agitation of the people. The city of Hong Kong continues to be on lockdown with tear gas serenading otherwise calm streets. Watch: Hong Kong continues to be on the boil ''We also realise that there is a lot of fake news, which may undermine the credibility of the police force, which is obviously not true. So what we are trying to do is first of all, for any false accusation, we have to rebut those false accusations, and we have to let the community know that the purpose of our action is only to maintain law and order, so that we (can) dispel any misunderstandings", Tang added. Hong Kong's chief executive said Tuesday that protesters occupying a city-centre university had to surrender if the three-day stand-off was to be resolved peacefully. China insisted Tuesday it held the sole authority to rule on constitutional matters in Hong Kong, as it condemned a decision by the city's high court to overturn a ban on face masks worn by pro-democracy protesters. (With inputs from Reuters)

Hong Kong appoints new police chief Chris Tang, says fake news undermining reputation

&nbsp;Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) firm <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../us-expands-blacklist-to-include-chinas-top-ai- startups-ahead-of-trade-talks-254672">Megvii Technology Ltd</a> plans to seek listing approval on Thursday for a Hong Kong initial public offering (IPO) of at least $500 million, people with direct knowledge of the matter said.

However, Beijing-based Megvii, which is backed by e-commerce giant <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../what-trade-war-chinese-companies-wow-with- third-quarter-report-card-263154">Alibaba </a>Group and is widely known for its facial recognition platform Face++, has yet to decide whether to carry out a roadshow once approval is granted, one of the people said.

Sources had previously told Reuters the listing was scheduled for Hong Kong in the fourth quarter and might raise as much as $1 billion.

The latest move comes weeks after the US&nbsp;government placed Megvii and seven other Chinese companies on a trade blacklist over their alleged involvement in human rights violations related to Beijing's repression of Muslim minority populations in the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../leaked-chinese-government-documents-show- details-of-xinjiang-clampdown-report-262676"> Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region.</a>

Goldman Sachs, which is a joint sponsor of the Megvii IPO alongside Citigroup and JPMorgan, last month said in an emailed statement in response to a request for comment on the Megvii IPO that it was "evaluating in light of the recent developments".

Megvii last month said it "strongly objects" to being added to the blacklist and there were "no grounds" for the designation. In a statement, it said around 1% of revenues were derived from Xinjiang in 2018 and none in the six months ended June 30.

Megvii and the three banks declined to comment.

Hong Kong, which topped the global charts in 2018 for funds raised through IPOs, has been roiled by nearly six months of political crisis. But IPO activity in the city has picked up since September, marked by AB InBev's Budweiser Brewing Company APAC Ltd, which raised about $5 billion in Hong Kong's biggest IPO so far this year.

Alibaba last week also launched the share sale for its Hong Kong listing, aiming to raise up to $13.4 billion in what would be the biggest follow-on share sale globally in seven years, according to Refinitiv data.

Founded in 2011 by Chief Executive Yin Qi and two friends from Tsinghua University, Megvii will become the first Chinese AI firm to go public if the deal goes ahead.

The company provides AI technology to governments and companies including Alibaba, Ant Financial, Lenovo Group Ltd and Huawei.

Its $750 million fundraising in May valued the company at slightly over $4 billion and attracted investors including Bank of China Group Investment Ltd, Macquarie Group and the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority.

Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) firm Megvii Technology Ltd plans to seek listing approval on Thursday for a Hong Kong initial public offering (IPO) of at least $500 million, people with direct knowledge of the matter said.

Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) firm Megvii Technology Ltd plans to seek listing approval on Thursday for a Hong Kong initial public offering (IPO) of at least $500 million, people with direct knowledge of the matter said. However, Beijing-based Megvii, which is backed by e-commerce giant Alibaba Group and is widely known for its facial recognition platform Face++, has yet to decide whether to carry out a roadshow once approval is granted, one of the people said. Sources had previously told Reuters the listing was scheduled for Hong Kong in the fourth quarter and might raise as much as $1 billion. The latest move comes weeks after the US government placed Megvii and seven other Chinese companies on a trade blacklist over their alleged involvement in human rights violations related to Beijing's repression of Muslim minority populations in the Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region. Goldman Sachs, which is a joint sponsor of the Megvii IPO alongside Citigroup and JPMorgan, last month said in an emailed statement in response to a request for comment on the Megvii IPO that it was "evaluating in light of the recent developments". Megvii last month said it "strongly objects" to being added to the blacklist and there were "no grounds" for the designation. In a statement, it said around 1% of revenues were derived from Xinjiang in 2018 and none in the six months ended June 30. Megvii and the three banks declined to comment. Hong Kong, which topped the global charts in 2018 for funds raised through IPOs, has been roiled by nearly six months of political crisis. But IPO activity in the city has picked up since September, marked by AB InBev's Budweiser Brewing Company APAC Ltd, which raised about $5 billion in Hong Kong's biggest IPO so far this year. Alibaba last week also launched the share sale for its Hong Kong listing, aiming to raise up to $13.4 billion in what would be the biggest follow-on share sale globally in seven years, according to Refinitiv data. Founded in 2011 by Chief Executive Yin Qi and two friends from Tsinghua University, Megvii will become the first Chinese AI firm to go public if the deal goes ahead. The company provides AI technology to governments and companies including Alibaba, Ant Financial, Lenovo Group Ltd and Huawei. Its $750 million fundraising in May valued the company at slightly over $4 billion and attracted investors including Bank of China Group Investment Ltd, Macquarie Group and the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority.

Chinese Artificial Intelligence start-up Megvii seeks approval for Hong Kong IPO of at least $500 million: Report

China appoints new police chief in Hong Kong.

WION Dispatch: Police take control of HK university

By Amanda Tattersall

While thousands of Hong Kongers have protested “like water” for the past six months – flowing through the city with seemingly spontaneous movements – the past week has seen a shift in strategy. Last week, students escalated their actions yet again by occupying most of Hong Kong’s universities.

The last remaining occupation at Polytechnic University remains under siege by the police force. Police say surrender is the only option for the students and have threatened to use live ammunition if they are attacked.

Why universities are sanctified spaces

The siege comes off the back of months of ratcheting police violence in response to the protests, including the use of live rounds, water cannons and nearly 6,000 canisters of tear gas.

The protesters, meanwhile, have remained mobile and flexible, which has allowed them to keep going for so long. This adherence to being “like water” has helped overcome the limitations that demonstrators faced in previous protests.

The government, for example, was able to wait out the 79-day Umbrella Movement in 2014, banking that protesters would eventually find the daily grind of occupying city streets too difficult.

The Tiananmen Square occupation in 1989, likewise, was vulnerable to a Chinese military crackdown because the protesters were congregated in a central place.

The current university occupations in Hong Kong – and the shift away from “being water” – happened not out of choice but necessity.

Universities are sanctified spaces in Hong Kong. As education providers, they are symbols of freedom and are formally protected under Hong Kong law. In a city of limited democracy, the law deems universities to be private property, meaning there is a protocol preventing police from entering campuses unless it’s an emergency.

When several police officers were found inside the University of Hong Kong in July, for example, the police issued an apology .

Hong Kong’s universities also represent what the protesters are fighting for. They are a space for democracy-building, and it’s no secret that many students have used the protection of campuses to organise. Some dormitories have become spaces for storing medical supplies and equipment to respond to police violence.

Then, last week, these safe spaces were threatened when police officers began moving on several campuses across the city to make arrests. The subsequent student occupations arose as a defensive posture to protect universities - and everything they represent - from state intervention.

Students have been actively supported by academic and administrative staff, who have closed campuses in an attempt to de-escalate the situation, acted as mediators with police and criticised the government for its “ineffective” response to the protests.

But unlike the fluid occupations of Hong Kong streets, shopping malls and the airport of previous months, the students found themselves fixed inside the universities. The police soon sensed an advantage, and at Polytechnic University they formed barricades around the campus.

Using arrest as a form of intimidation

The siege has had a military quality. For the first time, police deployed a LRAD sound device, a controversial weapon previously used in the Iraq war.

The students, meanwhile, have retaliated with petrol bombs and bows and arrows. When some have tried to flee, they have been bombed with tear gas and pushed back onto campus.

As of today, the university is still blockaded with more than 100 students believed to be inside. There have been multiple police invasions and retreats. New flanks of protesters have surrounded the police cordon. Older residents are forming human chains to get medical supplies to the site.

Police have threatened that every person left inside the university will be arrested. Protesters have been told they will be charged with rioting, which carries a maximum punishment of 10 years in jail.

Mass arrest has been used in an attempt to force protesters to back down for a while now. Hong Kong police reported this week the total number of arrests for the duration of the protests is so far 4,491 (more than 750 of them children).

Everyone arrested is subject to at least 48 hours detention. Some have been held in a controversial, remote detention facility, where detainees have alleged abuse in custody.

One explanation for all the arrests is that police are trying to remove key leaders from the front lines. Academics also see it as a form of intimidation.

As Ray Yep Kin-man, a City University political scientist, has noted, "In the past two months, some arrests were made even without strong evidence. I think police are adopting the strategy of arresting people to deter others from taking part in the protests."

Beyond arrest, the students have reason to be concerned. Many occupiers have written letters to their loved ones, fearing they will die. Democracy supporters and religious leaders are pleading for them to be released safely. They fear some protesters may refuse to leave, choosing instead to make a last stand.

The Hong Kong government’s approach is to try to deescalate the protests through fear. But the university siege, the now-overturned ban on wearing masks and the threats of live ammunition all show that Hong Kong’s protesters will not back down based on threats or violence.

Only meaningful changes to how the police work and how the government operates will end this battle for Hong Kong.

(Amanda Tattersall is Postdoc in Urban Geography and Research Lead at Sydney Policy Lab. Host of ChangeMakers Podcast., University of Sydney)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/university-under-siege-a-dangerous-new-phase-for-the-hong-kong-protests-127228">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

By Amanda Tattersall While thousands of Hong Kongers have protested “like water” for the past six months – flowing through the city with seemingly spontaneous movements – the past week has seen a shift in strategy.

By Amanda Tattersall While thousands of Hong Kongers have protested “like water” for the past six months – flowing through the city with seemingly spontaneous movements – the past week has seen a shift in strategy. Last week, students escalated their actions yet again by occupying most of Hong Kong’s universities. The last remaining occupation at Polytechnic University remains under siege by the police force. Police say surrender is the only option for the students and have threatened to use live ammunition if they are attacked. Why universities are sanctified spaces The siege comes off the back of months of ratcheting police violence in response to the protests, including the use of live rounds, water cannons and nearly 6,000 canisters of tear gas. The protesters, meanwhile, have remained mobile and flexible, which has allowed them to keep going for so long. This adherence to being “like water” has helped overcome the limitations that demonstrators faced in previous protests. The government, for example, was able to wait out the 79-day Umbrella Movement in 2014, banking that protesters would eventually find the daily grind of occupying city streets too difficult. The Tiananmen Square occupation in 1989, likewise, was vulnerable to a Chinese military crackdown because the protesters were congregated in a central place. The current university occupations in Hong Kong – and the shift away from “being water” – happened not out of choice but necessity. Universities are sanctified spaces in Hong Kong. As education providers, they are symbols of freedom and are formally protected under Hong Kong law. In a city of limited democracy, the law deems universities to be private property, meaning there is a protocol preventing police from entering campuses unless it’s an emergency. When several police officers were found inside the University of Hong Kong in July, for example, the police issued an apology . Hong Kong’s universities also represent what the protesters are fighting for. They are a space for democracy-building, and it’s no secret that many students have used the protection of campuses to organise. Some dormitories have become spaces for storing medical supplies and equipment to respond to police violence. Then, last week, these safe spaces were threatened when police officers began moving on several campuses across the city to make arrests. The subsequent student occupations arose as a defensive posture to protect universities - and everything they represent - from state intervention. Students have been actively supported by academic and administrative staff, who have closed campuses in an attempt to de-escalate the situation, acted as mediators with police and criticised the government for its “ineffective” response to the protests. But unlike the fluid occupations of Hong Kong streets, shopping malls and the airport of previous months, the students found themselves fixed inside the universities. The police soon sensed an advantage, and at Polytechnic University they formed barricades around the campus. Using arrest as a form of intimidation The siege has had a military quality. For the first time, police deployed a LRAD sound device, a controversial weapon previously used in the Iraq war. The students, meanwhile, have retaliated with petrol bombs and bows and arrows. When some have tried to flee, they have been bombed with tear gas and pushed back onto campus. As of today, the university is still blockaded with more than 100 students believed to be inside. There have been multiple police invasions and retreats. New flanks of protesters have surrounded the police cordon. Older residents are forming human chains to get medical supplies to the site. Police have threatened that every person left inside the university will be arrested. Protesters have been told they will be charged with rioting, which carries a maximum punishment of 10 years in jail. Mass arrest has been used in an attempt to force protesters to back down for a while now. Hong Kong police reported this week the total number of arrests for the duration of the protests is so far 4,491 (more than 750 of them children). Everyone arrested is subject to at least 48 hours detention. Some have been held in a controversial, remote detention facility, where detainees have alleged abuse in custody. One explanation for all the arrests is that police are trying to remove key leaders from the front lines. Academics also see it as a form of intimidation. As Ray Yep Kin-man, a City University political scientist, has noted, "In the past two months, some arrests were made even without strong evidence. I think police are adopting the strategy of arresting people to deter others from taking part in the protests." Beyond arrest, the students have reason to be concerned. Many occupiers have written letters to their loved ones, fearing they will die. Democracy supporters and religious leaders are pleading for them to be released safely. They fear some protesters may refuse to leave, choosing instead to make a last stand. The Hong Kong government’s approach is to try to deescalate the protests through fear. But the university siege, the now-overturned ban on wearing masks and the threats of live ammunition all show that Hong Kong’s protesters will not back down based on threats or violence. Only meaningful changes to how the police work and how the government operates will end this battle for Hong Kong. (Amanda Tattersall is Postdoc in Urban Geography and Research Lead at Sydney Policy Lab. Host of ChangeMakers Podcast., University of Sydney) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

A dangerous new phase for the Hong Kong protests

Arms covered in cling film and torches in hand as they drop into the sewers, clusters of pro-democracy protesters still inside a Hong Kong campus are plotting increasingly ingenious -- and desperate -- ways to escape a police siege.

Among the detritus of a scorched and graffiti-sprayed concourse at Hong Kong Polytechnic University, several plastic covers -- some with torches placed above them -- betray extraordinary underground escape plans.

Protesters have removed metal manholes, some making exploratory forays into the fetid tunnels, following rumours of successful exfiltrations from a campus ringed for three days by baton-wielding police determined to arrest them.

Pockets of protesters, some with thick bandages wrapped around their knees in anticipation of a long crawl to freedom, knot the holes discussing an unlikely -- and highly dangerous -- breakout.&nbsp;

AFP reporters saw one group on their stomachs practising crawling. Another group hugged each other in consolation after apparently agreeing not to take the route down into the unknown.

"The people outside can't help us," a protester told local television as he prepared to descend into a sewer. "So what can we do?"

One protester, gas mask on, and cling film wrapped around his arms, carried a torch as he descended with his backpack down the metal rungs into the subterranean gloom.&nbsp;

Desperation has stalked the protesters for two days since the occupation of the city centre campus turned into a police siege.

"We can get through today... I don't know about tomorrow," Fung, 43, a kitchen volunteer helping feed protesters in a campus canteen told AFP on Monday.

So far the daring escape bids have been matched by their danger.&nbsp;

Late on Monday dozens of protesters in civilian clothes slid down several metres of rope onto a flyover, where a cavalcade of motorbikes conducted a smash and grab rescue mission.

Police said 37 of the escapees and bike drivers were later arrested -- but many others are thought to have got away. &nbsp;&nbsp;

'Liberty or Death'

Earlier Monday scores of protesters faced a gauntlet of batons from Hong Kong's bruising riot cops as they made a dash along another bridge.&nbsp;

Some escaped but images showed those who did not on the receiving end of brutal flurries of baton strikes, kicks and stamps.

On Tuesday a group of around 20 protesters who had moved from the campus into a nearby building overnight slipped away, after riot police left their post.

"It's at most 10 years in jail if I am convicted of rioting," said Issac, aged 17. "But it will be a whole life in a larger prison if I stop coming out."

The teenager said that although his decision to leave would give him "a sense of shame", the remaining protesters needed to split up.

"I knew we couldn't leave together," he said. "But If we all got trapped and arrested, the movement would fail and die because I believe most of the frontliners were on campus."

Under-18s have also been escorted out by teachers -- their details taken but not immediately arrested on exit from the campus -- while Monday was pock-marked by sporadic failed escape bids by clusters of protesters.&nbsp;

Inside, desolation has replaced defiance.

"Liberty or Death" has been sprayed on the glass entrance to one building, where a 7/11 has been looted and a Bank of China ATM has been smashed up.

Classroom furniture, bottles for petrol bombs, mats, bollards and bins are chaotically piled across the campus, whose walls are scarred by scorch marks from large fires.

Black clothes, the colour of a rebellion whose narrow initial aims against a specific law have widened into calls for democracy in Hong Kong, are strewn everywhere as the mainly young activists shed protest 'uniforms' before making a break for it.

A hardcore contingent remains, willing to defend the campus despite stark warnings by police that officers are ready to use lethal force if they come under attack.&nbsp;

Tears in his eyes, exhausted and injured in one leg, Wong explained the dilemma of a youth movement whose lives have been upended by months of protest.

"If I give up can I face those who have sacrificed?" he said, of those arrested in the campus siege.

"I don't mind giving up my future so that others can step on our bodies and keep going forward."&nbsp;

Arms covered in cling film and torches in hand as they drop into the sewers, clusters of pro-democracy protesters still inside a Hong Kong campus are plotting increasingly ingenious -- and desperate -- ways to escape a police siege.

Arms covered in cling film and torches in hand as they drop into the sewers, clusters of pro-democracy protesters still inside a Hong Kong campus are plotting increasingly ingenious -- and desperate -- ways to escape a police siege. Among the detritus of a scorched and graffiti-sprayed concourse at Hong Kong Polytechnic University, several plastic covers -- some with torches placed above them -- betray extraordinary underground escape plans. Protesters have removed metal manholes, some making exploratory forays into the fetid tunnels, following rumours of successful exfiltrations from a campus ringed for three days by baton-wielding police determined to arrest them. Pockets of protesters, some with thick bandages wrapped around their knees in anticipation of a long crawl to freedom, knot the holes discussing an unlikely -- and highly dangerous -- breakout. AFP reporters saw one group on their stomachs practising crawling. Another group hugged each other in consolation after apparently agreeing not to take the route down into the unknown. "The people outside can't help us," a protester told local television as he prepared to descend into a sewer. "So what can we do?" One protester, gas mask on, and cling film wrapped around his arms, carried a torch as he descended with his backpack down the metal rungs into the subterranean gloom. Desperation has stalked the protesters for two days since the occupation of the city centre campus turned into a police siege. "We can get through today... I don't know about tomorrow," Fung, 43, a kitchen volunteer helping feed protesters in a campus canteen told AFP on Monday. So far the daring escape bids have been matched by their danger. Late on Monday dozens of protesters in civilian clothes slid down several metres of rope onto a flyover, where a cavalcade of motorbikes conducted a smash and grab rescue mission. Police said 37 of the escapees and bike drivers were later arrested -- but many others are thought to have got away. 'Liberty or Death' Earlier Monday scores of protesters faced a gauntlet of batons from Hong Kong's bruising riot cops as they made a dash along another bridge. Some escaped but images showed those who did not on the receiving end of brutal flurries of baton strikes, kicks and stamps. On Tuesday a group of around 20 protesters who had moved from the campus into a nearby building overnight slipped away, after riot police left their post. "It's at most 10 years in jail if I am convicted of rioting," said Issac, aged 17. "But it will be a whole life in a larger prison if I stop coming out." The teenager said that although his decision to leave would give him "a sense of shame", the remaining protesters needed to split up. "I knew we couldn't leave together," he said. "But If we all got trapped and arrested, the movement would fail and die because I believe most of the frontliners were on campus." Under-18s have also been escorted out by teachers -- their details taken but not immediately arrested on exit from the campus -- while Monday was pock-marked by sporadic failed escape bids by clusters of protesters. Inside, desolation has replaced defiance. "Liberty or Death" has been sprayed on the glass entrance to one building, where a 7/11 has been looted and a Bank of China ATM has been smashed up. Classroom furniture, bottles for petrol bombs, mats, bollards and bins are chaotically piled across the campus, whose walls are scarred by scorch marks from large fires. Black clothes, the colour of a rebellion whose narrow initial aims against a specific law have widened into calls for democracy in Hong Kong, are strewn everywhere as the mainly young activists shed protest 'uniforms' before making a break for it. A hardcore contingent remains, willing to defend the campus despite stark warnings by police that officers are ready to use lethal force if they come under attack. Tears in his eyes, exhausted and injured in one leg, Wong explained the dilemma of a youth movement whose lives have been upended by months of protest. "If I give up can I face those who have sacrificed?" he said, of those arrested in the campus siege. "I don't mind giving up my future so that others can step on our bodies and keep going forward."

Desperate Hong Kong protesters explore sewers in campus escape bid

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-court-overreached-only-we-can-rule-on-constitution-china-263023">Hong Kong</a>'s chief executive said Tuesday that protesters occupying a city-centre university had to surrender if the three-day stand-off was to be resolved peacefully.

In her first public comments on the siege at Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), Carrie Lam said she believed around 100 people remained at the campus, surrounded by police who were trying to quell the unrest.

"This objective could only be achieved with the full cooperation of the protesters, including of course the rioters that they have to stop violence, give up the weapons and come out peacefully and take the instructions from the police," she told a press conference.

Watch: Gravitas - Unprecedented violence in Hong Kong

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-unprecedented-violence-in-hong-kong-263019/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Hundreds of mainly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-will-not-sit-back-if-hong-kong-demonstrations-get-uncontrollable-envoy-263010">young protesters</a> took over the campus at the weekend, holding off police assaults with a barrage of Molotov cocktails, bricks and arrows, in the most extreme expression of a popular protest movement that is now in its sixth month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-will-not-sit-back-if-hong-kong-demonstrations-get-uncontrollable-envoy-263010">China insisted Tuesday</a>&nbsp;it held the sole authority to rule on constitutional matters in Hong Kong, as it condemned a decision by the city's high court to overturn a ban on face masks worn by pro-democracy protesters.

The statement could further fan the flames in Hong Kong after months of violent protests over concerns that Beijing is chipping away at the autonomy of the financial hub.

Hong Kong's chief executive said Tuesday that protesters occupying a city-centre university had to surrender if the three-day stand-off was to be resolved peacefully.

Hong Kong's chief executive said Tuesday that protesters occupying a city-centre university had to surrender if the three-day stand-off was to be resolved peacefully. In her first public comments on the siege at Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), Carrie Lam said she believed around 100 people remained at the campus, surrounded by police who were trying to quell the unrest. "This objective could only be achieved with the full cooperation of the protesters, including of course the rioters that they have to stop violence, give up the weapons and come out peacefully and take the instructions from the police," she told a press conference. Watch: Gravitas - Unprecedented violence in Hong Kong Hundreds of mainly young protesters took over the campus at the weekend, holding off police assaults with a barrage of Molotov cocktails, bricks and arrows, in the most extreme expression of a popular protest movement that is now in its sixth month. China insisted Tuesday it held the sole authority to rule on constitutional matters in Hong Kong, as it condemned a decision by the city's high court to overturn a ban on face masks worn by pro-democracy protesters. The statement could further fan the flames in Hong Kong after months of violent protests over concerns that Beijing is chipping away at the autonomy of the financial hub.

University protesters in Hong Kong must surrender to resolve stand-off peacefully: Carrie Lam

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-will-not-sit-back-if-hong-kong-demonstrations-get-uncontrollable-envoy-263010">China insisted Tuesday</a> it held the sole authority to rule on constitutional matters in Hong Kong, as it condemned a decision by the city's high court to overturn a ban on face masks worn by pro-democracy protesters.

The statement could further fan the flames in Hong Kong after months of violent protests over concerns that Beijing is chipping away at the autonomy of the financial hub.

The ban on face-covering came into force in October, when the city's unelected pro-Beijing leader invoked colonial-era legislation for the first time in more than 50 years.

The move was seen as a watershed legal moment for the city since its 1997 return by Britain to China, but has been largely symbolic.

The city's high court ruled on Monday that the government ban on face masks was unconstitutional. But Beijing said the judicial branch of the special administrative region had overreached.

Parliamentary spokesman Jian Tiewei said only the legislature had the right to rule on whether a law is in accordance with the Basic Law,&nbsp;the city's mini-constitution.

Watch: Hong Kong continues to be on the boil

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-continues-to-be-on-the-boil-universities-turned-into-the-fortress-262819/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"No other institution has the right to make judgements or decisions," Jian said, according to a state media report posted on the NPC's website.

He said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-envoy-warns-us-uk-against-external-interference-in-hong-kong-262963">the ruling</a> had "severely weakened the governance" of Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam and the city government.

Jian also indicated that the legislature might take some form of action.

"We are considering the relevant opinions and suggestions put forward by some NPC deputies," he said, without elaborating.

Protests started in June as a peaceful condemnation of a now-shelved China extradition bill, but have morphed into a confrontational action to defend the city's unique freedoms from perceived encroachment by Beijing.

China has repeatedly warned that it would not allow the city to spiral into total chaos, fuelling concerns that Beijing might deploy troops or other security forces to quell the unrest.

"The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-defence-ministry-defends-deploying-soldiers-in-hong-kong-calls-it-most-pressing-task-262844">Hong Kong government</a> is trying very hard to put the situation under control," China's ambassador to Britain, Liu Xiaoming, said on Monday.

"But if the situation becomes uncontrollable, the central government would certainly not sit on our hands and watch. We have enough resolution and power to end the unrest."

But Beijing has so far backed Lam and the city's police force, which has faced off with protesters in increasingly violent clashes.

This week police laid siege at a university campus where protesters,&nbsp;some armed with bows and homemade catapults to fire bricks, were holed up.

Dozens of protesters dramatically escaped the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) late Monday by shimmying down ropes from a bridge to waiting motorbikes.

China insisted Tuesday it held the sole authority to rule on constitutional matters in Hong Kong, as it condemned a decision by the city's high court to overturn a ban on face masks worn by pro-democracy protesters.

China insisted Tuesday it held the sole authority to rule on constitutional matters in Hong Kong, as it condemned a decision by the city's high court to overturn a ban on face masks worn by pro-democracy protesters. The statement could further fan the flames in Hong Kong after months of violent protests over concerns that Beijing is chipping away at the autonomy of the financial hub. The ban on face-covering came into force in October, when the city's unelected pro-Beijing leader invoked colonial-era legislation for the first time in more than 50 years. The move was seen as a watershed legal moment for the city since its 1997 return by Britain to China, but has been largely symbolic. The city's high court ruled on Monday that the government ban on face masks was unconstitutional. But Beijing said the judicial branch of the special administrative region had overreached. Parliamentary spokesman Jian Tiewei said only the legislature had the right to rule on whether a law is in accordance with the Basic Law, the city's mini-constitution. Watch: Hong Kong continues to be on the boil "No other institution has the right to make judgements or decisions," Jian said, according to a state media report posted on the NPC's website. He said the ruling had "severely weakened the governance" of Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam and the city government. Jian also indicated that the legislature might take some form of action. "We are considering the relevant opinions and suggestions put forward by some NPC deputies," he said, without elaborating. Protests started in June as a peaceful condemnation of a now-shelved China extradition bill, but have morphed into a confrontational action to defend the city's unique freedoms from perceived encroachment by Beijing. China has repeatedly warned that it would not allow the city to spiral into total chaos, fuelling concerns that Beijing might deploy troops or other security forces to quell the unrest. "The Hong Kong government is trying very hard to put the situation under control," China's ambassador to Britain, Liu Xiaoming, said on Monday. "But if the situation becomes uncontrollable, the central government would certainly not sit on our hands and watch. We have enough resolution and power to end the unrest." But Beijing has so far backed Lam and the city's police force, which has faced off with protesters in increasingly violent clashes. This week police laid siege at a university campus where protesters, some armed with bows and homemade catapults to fire bricks, were holed up. Dozens of protesters dramatically escaped the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) late Monday by shimmying down ropes from a bridge to waiting motorbikes.

Hong Kong court overreached, only we can rule on constitution: China

The U.N. human rights office said on Tuesday that some <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-defy-lams-surrender-warning-as-authorities-struggle-to-free-university-campus-263094">Hong Kong demonstrators'</a> resorting to extreme violence, including against police, was "deeply regrettable and cannot be condoned" and voiced concern that the situation could deteriorate further.

Spokesman Rupert Colville urged Hong Kong authorities to de-escalate the situation at the Polytechnic University - where about 100 protesters are holed up - and address the humanitarian situation of those inside "which is clearly deteriorating".

Hong Kong's embattled leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/university-protesters-in-hong-kong-must-surrender-to-resolve-stand-off-peacefully-carrie-lam-263037">Carrie Lam said</a> on Tuesday she hoped the standoff between police and a group of anti-government protesters at the university could be resolved and she had told police to handle it humanely.

Dozens of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;protesters staged a dramatic escape from a university campus sealed off by police on Monday by shimmying down plastic hosing from a bridge and fleeing on waiting motorbikes as the police fired projectiles.

Many more anti-government protesters remained trapped inside the&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;Polytechnic University, and two prominent figures were allowed by police onto the campus late on Monday to mediate, a sign that there is a growing risk of bloodshed.

Polytechnic University in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's Kowloon district is at the centre of a standoff in the past week that has seen the most intense violence in five months of anti-government demonstrations.

Some of the protesters who escaped on Monday lowered themselves several metres from a bridge they had occupied on the campus to a flyover below. They then sped off on the back of motorcycles that were already waiting or arrived quickly.

A number of them appeared subsequently to have been arrested, a Reuters witness said.

Other protesters, hurling petrol bombs, tried repeatedly to break into the campus but police fired tear gas and water cannon to push them back.

The United States expressed concern about the situation but China's ambassador to London accused Western countries of interfering.

The U.N. human rights office said on Tuesday that some Hong Kong demonstrators' resorting to extreme violence, including against police, was "deeply regrettable and cannot be condoned" and voiced concern that the situation could deteriorate further.

The U.N. human rights office said on Tuesday that some Hong Kong demonstrators' resorting to extreme violence, including against police, was "deeply regrettable and cannot be condoned" and voiced concern that the situation could deteriorate further. Spokesman Rupert Colville urged Hong Kong authorities to de-escalate the situation at the Polytechnic University - where about 100 protesters are holed up - and address the humanitarian situation of those inside "which is clearly deteriorating". Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday she hoped the standoff between police and a group of anti-government protesters at the university could be resolved and she had told police to handle it humanely. Dozens of Hong Kong protesters staged a dramatic escape from a university campus sealed off by police on Monday by shimmying down plastic hosing from a bridge and fleeing on waiting motorbikes as the police fired projectiles. Many more anti-government protesters remained trapped inside the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and two prominent figures were allowed by police onto the campus late on Monday to mediate, a sign that there is a growing risk of bloodshed. Polytechnic University in Hong Kong's Kowloon district is at the centre of a standoff in the past week that has seen the most intense violence in five months of anti-government demonstrations. Some of the protesters who escaped on Monday lowered themselves several metres from a bridge they had occupied on the campus to a flyover below. They then sped off on the back of motorcycles that were already waiting or arrived quickly. A number of them appeared subsequently to have been arrested, a Reuters witness said. Other protesters, hurling petrol bombs, tried repeatedly to break into the campus but police fired tear gas and water cannon to push them back. The United States expressed concern about the situation but China's ambassador to London accused Western countries of interfering.

U.N. decries Hong Kong protesters' violence, calls for calm

Mass anti-government protests in several Arab countries are turning into competitions to determine who has the longer breath, the protesters or the government.

In Algeria, Lebanon and Iraq, countries in which the leader was either forced to resign or has agreed to step down, authorities appear to be dragging their feet on handovers of power or agreed transitional power-sharing arrangements in the hope that protesters, determined to hold on to their street power until a political transition process is firmly in place, either lose their momentum or are racked by internal differences.

So far, protesters are holding their ground, having learnt the lesson that their achievements are likely to be rolled back if they vacate the street before having cemented an agreement on the rules of the transitional game and process.

Algerians remain on the streets, seven months after President Abdelaziz Bouteflika was forced to step down, in demand of a complete change of the political system.

Scores of recent arrests on charges that include “harming national unity” and “undermining the morale of the army” have failed to deter Algerians who refuse to accept the military’s proposed December 12 date for elections.

Lebanon enters its second months of protests with the government going through the motions but ultimately failing to respond to demands for a technocratic government, a new non-sectarian electoral law and early elections.

An effort to replace Prime Minister Saad Hariri with another member of the elite, Mohammad Safadi, a billionaire businessman and former finance minister, was rejected by the protesters.

"We are staying here. We don't know how long - maybe one or two months or one or two years. Maybe it will take 10 years to get the state we are dreaming of, but everything starts with a first step," said filmmaker Perla Joe Maaloula.

Weeks after agreeing to resign in response to popular pressure, Iraqi prime minister Adil Abdul Mehdi appears to be increasingly firm in his saddle.

Much like what prompted US President George H W Bush to first call in 1991 for a popular revolt against Saddam Hussein and then give the Iraqi strongman the tools to crush the uprising, Mehdi is holding on to power in the absence of a credible candidate acceptable to the political elite to replace him.

Mehdi’s position is strengthened by the fact that neither the United States nor Iran wants a power vacuum to emerge in Baghdad.

Backtracking on Mehdi’s resignation and refraining from appointing a prime minister who credibly holds out the promise of real change is likely to harden the battle lines between the protesters and the government.

The tugs of war highlight the pitfalls protesters and governments need to manoeuvre in what amounts to a complex game with governments seeking to pacify demonstrators by seemingly entertaining their demands yet plotting to maintain fundamental political structures that anti-government activists want to uproot.

The risk of a tug of war is that protests turn violent as happened in Hong Kong or in Lebanon where cars of parliamentarians were attacked as they drove this week towards the assembly.

Meeting protesters’ demands and aspirations that drive the demonstrations and figure across the Middle East and North Africa, irrespective of whether grievances have spilled into streets, is what makes economic and social reform tricky business for the region’s autocrats.

It is where what is needed for sustainable reforms bounces up against ever more repressive security states intent on exercising increasingly tight control.

Sustainable reform requires capable and effective institutions rather than bloated, bureaucratic job banks and decentralisation with greater authorities granted to municipalities and regions.

Altering social contracts by introducing or increasing taxes, reducing subsidies for basic goods and narrowing opportunities for government employment will have to be buffered by greater transparency that provides the public insight into how the government ensures that it benefits from the still-evolving new social contract.&nbsp;

To many protesters, Sudan has validated protesters’ resolve to retain street power until transitional arrangements are put in place.

It took five months after the toppling of President Omar al-Bashir and a short-lived security force crackdown in which some 100 people were killed before the military, the protesters and political groups agreed and put in place a transitional power-sharing process.

The process involved the creation of a sovereign council made up of civilians and military officers that is governing the country and managing its democratic transition.

Even so, transitional experiences have yet to prove their mettle. Protesters may have learnt lessons from the 2011 popular Arab revolts that toppled the leaders of Tunisia, Egypt, Libya and Yemen.

Yet, this time round, protesters lack the broad-based international empathy that 2011 uprisings enjoyed and are up against more than domestic forces backed by conservative Gulf states.

Powers like Russia and China make no bones about their rejection of protest as an expression of popular political will.

So has Iran that has much at stake in Iraq and Lebanon, countries where anti-sectarian sentiment is strong among protesters, even if the Islamic republic was born in one of the 20th century’s epic popular revolts and is confronting protests of its own against fuel price hikes. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

Mass anti-government protests in several Arab countries are turning into competitions to determine who has the longer breath, the protesters or the government. In Algeria, Lebanon and Iraq, countries in which the leader was either forced to resign or has agreed to step down, authorities appear to be dragging their feet on handovers of power or agreed transitional power-sharing arrangements in the hope that protesters, determined to hold on to their street power until a political transition process is firmly in place, either lose their momentum or are racked by internal differences.

Mass anti-government protests in several Arab countries are turning into competitions to determine who has the longer breath, the protesters or the government. In Algeria, Lebanon and Iraq, countries in which the leader was either forced to resign or has agreed to step down, authorities appear to be dragging their feet on handovers of power or agreed transitional power-sharing arrangements in the hope that protesters, determined to hold on to their street power until a political transition process is firmly in place, either lose their momentum or are racked by internal differences. So far, protesters are holding their ground, having learnt the lesson that their achievements are likely to be rolled back if they vacate the street before having cemented an agreement on the rules of the transitional game and process. Algerians remain on the streets, seven months after President Abdelaziz Bouteflika was forced to step down, in demand of a complete change of the political system. Scores of recent arrests on charges that include “harming national unity” and “undermining the morale of the army” have failed to deter Algerians who refuse to accept the military’s proposed December 12 date for elections. Lebanon enters its second months of protests with the government going through the motions but ultimately failing to respond to demands for a technocratic government, a new non-sectarian electoral law and early elections. An effort to replace Prime Minister Saad Hariri with another member of the elite, Mohammad Safadi, a billionaire businessman and former finance minister, was rejected by the protesters. "We are staying here. We don't know how long - maybe one or two months or one or two years. Maybe it will take 10 years to get the state we are dreaming of, but everything starts with a first step," said filmmaker Perla Joe Maaloula. Weeks after agreeing to resign in response to popular pressure, Iraqi prime minister Adil Abdul Mehdi appears to be increasingly firm in his saddle. Much like what prompted US President George H W Bush to first call in 1991 for a popular revolt against Saddam Hussein and then give the Iraqi strongman the tools to crush the uprising, Mehdi is holding on to power in the absence of a credible candidate acceptable to the political elite to replace him. Mehdi’s position is strengthened by the fact that neither the United States nor Iran wants a power vacuum to emerge in Baghdad. Backtracking on Mehdi’s resignation and refraining from appointing a prime minister who credibly holds out the promise of real change is likely to harden the battle lines between the protesters and the government. The tugs of war highlight the pitfalls protesters and governments need to manoeuvre in what amounts to a complex game with governments seeking to pacify demonstrators by seemingly entertaining their demands yet plotting to maintain fundamental political structures that anti-government activists want to uproot. The risk of a tug of war is that protests turn violent as happened in Hong Kong or in Lebanon where cars of parliamentarians were attacked as they drove this week towards the assembly. Meeting protesters’ demands and aspirations that drive the demonstrations and figure across the Middle East and North Africa, irrespective of whether grievances have spilled into streets, is what makes economic and social reform tricky business for the region’s autocrats. It is where what is needed for sustainable reforms bounces up against ever more repressive security states intent on exercising increasingly tight control. Sustainable reform requires capable and effective institutions rather than bloated, bureaucratic job banks and decentralisation with greater authorities granted to municipalities and regions. Altering social contracts by introducing or increasing taxes, reducing subsidies for basic goods and narrowing opportunities for government employment will have to be buffered by greater transparency that provides the public insight into how the government ensures that it benefits from the still-evolving new social contract. To many protesters, Sudan has validated protesters’ resolve to retain street power until transitional arrangements are put in place. It took five months after the toppling of President Omar al-Bashir and a short-lived security force crackdown in which some 100 people were killed before the military, the protesters and political groups agreed and put in place a transitional power-sharing process. The process involved the creation of a sovereign council made up of civilians and military officers that is governing the country and managing its democratic transition. Even so, transitional experiences have yet to prove their mettle. Protesters may have learnt lessons from the 2011 popular Arab revolts that toppled the leaders of Tunisia, Egypt, Libya and Yemen. Yet, this time round, protesters lack the broad-based international empathy that 2011 uprisings enjoyed and are up against more than domestic forces backed by conservative Gulf states. Powers like Russia and China make no bones about their rejection of protest as an expression of popular political will. So has Iran that has much at stake in Iraq and Lebanon, countries where anti-sectarian sentiment is strong among protesters, even if the Islamic republic was born in one of the 20th century’s epic popular revolts and is confronting protests of its own against fuel price hikes. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Middle East protests: A tug of war over who has the longer breath

China appoints new police chief in Hong Kong. Watch this video to find out more on this.

China appoints new police chief in Hong Kong

Protesters at the besieged Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) have refused the city leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/university-protesters-in-hong-kong-must-surrender-to-resolve-stand-off-peacefully-carrie-lam-263037">Carrie Lam's demands to surrender</a> in order to allow a peaceful resolution. As many protesters remain on the other side of the barricades on campus, authorities are attempting to free the campus of people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-court-overreached-only-we-can-rule-on-constitution-china-263023">China's envoy</a> has threatened protesters with stringent action by saying that they will not ''sit back'' if things become uncontrollable.

The protests in running into their sixth month, with high school students being trapped inside the university. Recently, the clashes have become more violent, as the police shot at a student and a man was set ablaze.

In the backdrop of this state-sanctioned violence, the students fear being shot at by the police, as many remain huddled in silver emergency survival blankets.

Watch: Hong Kong police storm university

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fineprint-hong-kong-police-storm-university-262997/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Many protesters took the leap overnight by escaping the campus via ropes from a footbridge downward to a road and later rode away on motorbikes, while many hid in manholes.

In an apparently coordinated effort to distract police during the escape operation, tens of thousands of people streamed towards the PolyU campus as clashes simultaneously raged with police in nearby Kowloon district.

This crisis is the most intense and long-lasting in Hong Kong, as millions flooded the streets in June after an extradition bill that would have allowed people to be moved to mainland China. From this, the protests have evolved into a full-fledged call for democracy and distance from China and its government.

Earlier today, Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam requested the protesters to surrender at the university and to help resume peace.

Hong Kong appointed their new police chief, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-appoints-new-police-chief-chris-tang-says-fake-news-undermining-polices-reputation-263048">Chris Tang</a>, today. He took office with a warning that "fake news" was undermining the reputation of his police force.

Tang replaced Commissioner Stephen Lo in the face of major anti-government protests in the city, which have now escalated into a scuffle at a university.&nbsp;

The protests have been ongoing for the last five years against the government of Hong Kong and the influence of China on the city.

(With inputs from AFP)

Protesters at the besieged Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) have refused the city leader Carrie Lam's demands to surrender in order to allow a peaceful resolution.

Protesters at the besieged Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) have refused the city leader Carrie Lam's demands to surrender in order to allow a peaceful resolution. As many protesters remain on the other side of the barricades on campus, authorities are attempting to free the campus of people. China's envoy has threatened protesters with stringent action by saying that they will not ''sit back'' if things become uncontrollable. The protests in running into their sixth month, with high school students being trapped inside the university. Recently, the clashes have become more violent, as the police shot at a student and a man was set ablaze. In the backdrop of this state-sanctioned violence, the students fear being shot at by the police, as many remain huddled in silver emergency survival blankets. Watch: Hong Kong police storm university Many protesters took the leap overnight by escaping the campus via ropes from a footbridge downward to a road and later rode away on motorbikes, while many hid in manholes. In an apparently coordinated effort to distract police during the escape operation, tens of thousands of people streamed towards the PolyU campus as clashes simultaneously raged with police in nearby Kowloon district. This crisis is the most intense and long-lasting in Hong Kong, as millions flooded the streets in June after an extradition bill that would have allowed people to be moved to mainland China. From this, the protests have evolved into a full-fledged call for democracy and distance from China and its government. Earlier today, Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam requested the protesters to surrender at the university and to help resume peace. Hong Kong appointed their new police chief, Chris Tang, today. He took office with a warning that "fake news" was undermining the reputation of his police force. Tang replaced Commissioner Stephen Lo in the face of major anti-government protests in the city, which have now escalated into a scuffle at a university. The protests have been ongoing for the last five years against the government of Hong Kong and the influence of China on the city. (With inputs from AFP)

Hong Kong: Protesters defy Lam's surrender warning as authorities struggle to free university campus

As violence continues to eclipse Hong Kong, China's military today defended the deployment of soldiers into the city. They referred to the violence as the ''most pressing task''.

The brief clean-up operation came at the end of a week of particularly intense clashes between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-set-fire-to-hold-off-police-at-university-campus-262783">police and protesters</a> that had caused chaos across Hong Kong.&nbsp;Soldiers, besides trying to quell the violence, were seen helping out clean nearby streets that were soiled by protesters.

"There were some Hong Kong citizens clearing roadblocks near the PLA Hong Kong garrison," Chinese defence ministry spokesman Wu Qian told reporters at a security event in Bangkok when asked about the brief deployment.

"The soldiers from the PLA Hong Kong garrison joined these citizens in clearing these roadblocks and their efforts were welcomed by Hong Kong citizens", Qian added.

China has made it clear that it won't entertain any of the demands put forward by the protesters while adding that no violence will be tolerated.

After another weekend of violence and protesters setting fire to the entrance of a university entrance on Monday morning to defend themselves from police, Wu issued another warning.

"Ending violence and restoring order is the most pressing task we have in Hong Kong," Wu said after China's defence minister Wei Fenghe met his US counterpart, Mark Esper, in Bangkok.

China's People Liberations' Army has maintained a garrison in Hong Kong since the former British colony was returned to China in 1997.

However, these troops barely leave their barracks. They were last seen on the streets to help clean up after a typhoon in 2018.

According to Hong Kong's Basic Law, troops from mainland China can operate in the city if local authorities request it.

Hong Kong authorities may, "when necessary", ask the central government for assistance from the garrison "in the maintenance of public order and in disaster relief", according to Article 14.

Article 18 of the Basic Law allows the central government to effectively suspend Hong Kong's laws if there is a "state of war" or "turmoil" which "endangers national security or unity".&nbsp;

Hong Kong's government said on Saturday that it did not request the Chinese troops to clean up the streets.

Recently, A government ban on demonstrators wearing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-mask-law-to-quell-protests-unconstitutional-hong-kong-high-court-262838">face masks</a>, aimed at helping to quell months of pro-democracy unrest in Hong Kong, was ruled unconstitutional by the territory's high court.

Owing to the unrest in Hong Kong, many Asian carriers have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/asian-airlines-slash-flights-to-hong-kong-as-unrest-escalates-262832">cancelled flights</a> to Hong Kong.

(With inputs from AFP)

As violence continues to eclipse Hong Kong, China's military today defended the deployment of soldiers into the city. They referred to the violence as the ''most pressing task''.

As violence continues to eclipse Hong Kong, China's military today defended the deployment of soldiers into the city. They referred to the violence as the ''most pressing task''. The brief clean-up operation came at the end of a week of particularly intense clashes between police and protesters that had caused chaos across Hong Kong. Soldiers, besides trying to quell the violence, were seen helping out clean nearby streets that were soiled by protesters. "There were some Hong Kong citizens clearing roadblocks near the PLA Hong Kong garrison," Chinese defence ministry spokesman Wu Qian told reporters at a security event in Bangkok when asked about the brief deployment. "The soldiers from the PLA Hong Kong garrison joined these citizens in clearing these roadblocks and their efforts were welcomed by Hong Kong citizens", Qian added. China has made it clear that it won't entertain any of the demands put forward by the protesters while adding that no violence will be tolerated. After another weekend of violence and protesters setting fire to the entrance of a university entrance on Monday morning to defend themselves from police, Wu issued another warning. "Ending violence and restoring order is the most pressing task we have in Hong Kong," Wu said after China's defence minister Wei Fenghe met his US counterpart, Mark Esper, in Bangkok. China's People Liberations' Army has maintained a garrison in Hong Kong since the former British colony was returned to China in 1997. However, these troops barely leave their barracks. They were last seen on the streets to help clean up after a typhoon in 2018. According to Hong Kong's Basic Law, troops from mainland China can operate in the city if local authorities request it. Hong Kong authorities may, "when necessary", ask the central government for assistance from the garrison "in the maintenance of public order and in disaster relief", according to Article 14. Article 18 of the Basic Law allows the central government to effectively suspend Hong Kong's laws if there is a "state of war" or "turmoil" which "endangers national security or unity". Hong Kong's government said on Saturday that it did not request the Chinese troops to clean up the streets. Recently, A government ban on demonstrators wearing face masks, aimed at helping to quell months of pro-democracy unrest in Hong Kong, was ruled unconstitutional by the territory's high court. Owing to the unrest in Hong Kong, many Asian carriers have cancelled flights to Hong Kong. (With inputs from AFP)

China defends deploying soldiers in Hong Kong, calls it 'most pressing task'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-set-fire-to-hold-off-police-at-university-campus-262783">Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;police</a> fired tear gas and rubber bullets on Monday to force back anti-government protesters trying to escape a university where hundreds are holed up with petrol bombs and other homemade weapons amid fears of a bloody crackdown.

Dozens tried to flee the Polytechnic University after a night of mayhem in the Chinese-ruled city in which major roads were blocked and a bridge was set on fire and a police officer was shot by a bow and arrow.

Many were arrested near the university on Monday, public broadcaster RTHK reported, while in the nearby commercial area of Nathan Road activists stopped traffic and forced shopping malls and stores to shut.

"We've been trapped here for too long. We need all&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kongers to know we need help," said Dan, a 19-year-old protester on the campus, as he burst into tears.

"I don't know how much longer we can go on like this. We may need international help."

Protesters tried to make another run for it in the afternoon but were met with more volleys of tear gas.

Thirty-eight people were wounded overnight on Sunday, the city's Hospital Authority said. Reuters witnesses saw some protesters suffering from burns from chemicals in jets fired from police water cannons.

"Remember you have life in your hands. Why do you need to push us to death?" one person shouted at police from a campus rooftop as protesters wearing gas masks and clutching umbrellas looked for ways to escape.

Police urged protesters to "drop their weapons" and leave.

"Police appeal to everyone inside the Polytechnic University to drop their weapons and dangerous items, remove their gas masks and leave via the top level of Cheong Wan Road South Bridge in an orderly manner," they said in a statement.

"They should follow police instructions and must not charge at police cordons."

Live video showed protesters with their hands tied behind their backs sitting cross-legged on a road as riot police stood guard in one of the busiest commercial and tourist districts in the former British colony.

Police said they fired three live rounds when "rioters" attacked two officers who were attempting to arrest a woman. No one was wounded and the woman escaped amid a dramatic escalation of the unrest that has plunged the Asian financial hub into chaos for almost six months.

Demonstrators are angry at what they see as Chinese meddling in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's promised freedoms when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997. They say they are responding to excessive use of force by police.

China says it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula granting&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;autonomy, with the city's police accusations they use undue violence.

'Unjustified'

The United States condemned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/asian-airlines-slash-flights-to-hong-kong-as-unrest-escalates-262832">"unjustified use of force" in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong</a>&nbsp;and called on Beijing to protect&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's freedom, a senior official in President Donald Trump's administration said.

Chinese soldiers in a base close to the university were seen on Sunday monitoring developments at the university with binoculars, some dressed in riot gear.

Chinese troops in shorts and T-shirts, some carrying red plastic buckets or brooms, emerged from their barracks on Saturday in a rare public appearance to help clean up debris.

Chinese troops have appeared on&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's streets only once since 1997, to help clear up after a typhoon last year.

Asked about the clean-up operation, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Wu Qian said their efforts were welcomed by&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;citizens.

The&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;garrison “has the determination, confidence and capabilities to safeguard sovereignty, security and development interests of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;in accordance with the Basic Law and the Garrison Law and to ensure long term prosperity and stability in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong”, Wu said, speaking on the sidelines of a defence conference in Bangkok.

The Basic Law is the mini-constitution setting the terms for the formula under which the former colony returned to China.

The&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;government involved a colonial-era emergency law in October banning faced masks commonly used by protesters. The High Court ruled on Monday the ban was "incompatible with the Basic Law".

'We need to fight'

The city's Cross-Harbour Tunnel, next to the Polytechnic University, linking&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;Island to the Kowloon peninsula, remained closed after protesters torched a bridge above the toll booths on Sunday.

Some train services and many roads across the Kowloon peninsula were closed. All schools were shut.

As police approached the barricaded front gate of the university in the predawn hours, protesters retreated into the campus and started fires at the gate and a footbridge.

Some protesters discussed trying to leave, while others reinforced barricades and carried boxes of petrol bombs to positions around the complex.

Thousands of residents and protesters flocked to districts around the university including Tsim Sha Tsui, Jordan and Yau Ma Tei, to try to penetrate the riot-police lines to rescue the trapped students.

"If we can only hold on until dawn, more might come," said one young activist in the university.

University President Teng Jin-Guang said he had brokered a truce with police to allow protesters to leave the campus peacefully, however it was unclear whether a truce was taking effect.

Some of those trapped on the sprawling red-brick campus close to the city's harbour said they would never surrender.

"We need to fight until the end. If we don’t fight,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-mask-law-to-quell-protests-unconstitutional-hong-kong-high-court-262838">Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;will be over</a>," said Ah Lung, 19.

The unrest in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;poses the gravest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. Xi has said he is confident&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's government can resolve the crisis.

Beijing denies interfering in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's affairs and has blamed Western countries for stirring up unrest.

Investment bank Goldman Sachs announced that due to “ongoing disruption” in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong, it was postponing a party at its regional headquarters in the city to mark the firm’s 150th anniversary. CEO David Solomon was due to attend.

Hong Kong police fired tear gas and rubber bullets on Monday to force back anti-government protesters trying to escape a university where hundreds are holed up with petrol bombs and other homemade weapons amid fears of a bloody crackdown.

Hong Kong police fired tear gas and rubber bullets on Monday to force back anti-government protesters trying to escape a university where hundreds are holed up with petrol bombs and other homemade weapons amid fears of a bloody crackdown. Dozens tried to flee the Polytechnic University after a night of mayhem in the Chinese-ruled city in which major roads were blocked and a bridge was set on fire and a police officer was shot by a bow and arrow. Many were arrested near the university on Monday, public broadcaster RTHK reported, while in the nearby commercial area of Nathan Road activists stopped traffic and forced shopping malls and stores to shut. "We've been trapped here for too long. We need all Hong Kongers to know we need help," said Dan, a 19-year-old protester on the campus, as he burst into tears. "I don't know how much longer we can go on like this. We may need international help." Protesters tried to make another run for it in the afternoon but were met with more volleys of tear gas. Thirty-eight people were wounded overnight on Sunday, the city's Hospital Authority said. Reuters witnesses saw some protesters suffering from burns from chemicals in jets fired from police water cannons. "Remember you have life in your hands. Why do you need to push us to death?" one person shouted at police from a campus rooftop as protesters wearing gas masks and clutching umbrellas looked for ways to escape. Police urged protesters to "drop their weapons" and leave. "Police appeal to everyone inside the Polytechnic University to drop their weapons and dangerous items, remove their gas masks and leave via the top level of Cheong Wan Road South Bridge in an orderly manner," they said in a statement. "They should follow police instructions and must not charge at police cordons." Live video showed protesters with their hands tied behind their backs sitting cross-legged on a road as riot police stood guard in one of the busiest commercial and tourist districts in the former British colony. Police said they fired three live rounds when "rioters" attacked two officers who were attempting to arrest a woman. No one was wounded and the woman escaped amid a dramatic escalation of the unrest that has plunged the Asian financial hub into chaos for almost six months. Demonstrators are angry at what they see as Chinese meddling in Hong Kong's promised freedoms when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997. They say they are responding to excessive use of force by police. China says it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula granting Hong Kong autonomy, with the city's police accusations they use undue violence. 'Unjustified' The United States condemned the "unjustified use of force" in Hong Kong and called on Beijing to protect Hong Kong's freedom, a senior official in President Donald Trump's administration said. Chinese soldiers in a base close to the university were seen on Sunday monitoring developments at the university with binoculars, some dressed in riot gear. Chinese troops in shorts and T-shirts, some carrying red plastic buckets or brooms, emerged from their barracks on Saturday in a rare public appearance to help clean up debris. Chinese troops have appeared on Hong Kong's streets only once since 1997, to help clear up after a typhoon last year. Asked about the clean-up operation, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Wu Qian said their efforts were welcomed by Hong Kong citizens. The Hong Kong garrison “has the determination, confidence and capabilities to safeguard sovereignty, security and development interests of Hong Kong in accordance with the Basic Law and the Garrison Law and to ensure long term prosperity and stability in Hong Kong”, Wu said, speaking on the sidelines of a defence conference in Bangkok. The Basic Law is the mini-constitution setting the terms for the formula under which the former colony returned to China. The Hong Kong government involved a colonial-era emergency law in October banning faced masks commonly used by protesters. The High Court ruled on Monday the ban was "incompatible with the Basic Law". 'We need to fight' The city's Cross-Harbour Tunnel, next to the Polytechnic University, linking Hong Kong Island to the Kowloon peninsula, remained closed after protesters torched a bridge above the toll booths on Sunday. Some train services and many roads across the Kowloon peninsula were closed. All schools were shut. As police approached the barricaded front gate of the university in the predawn hours, protesters retreated into the campus and started fires at the gate and a footbridge. Some protesters discussed trying to leave, while others reinforced barricades and carried boxes of petrol bombs to positions around the complex. Thousands of residents and protesters flocked to districts around the university including Tsim Sha Tsui, Jordan and Yau Ma Tei, to try to penetrate the riot-police lines to rescue the trapped students. "If we can only hold on until dawn, more might come," said one young activist in the university. University President Teng Jin-Guang said he had brokered a truce with police to allow protesters to leave the campus peacefully, however it was unclear whether a truce was taking effect. Some of those trapped on the sprawling red-brick campus close to the city's harbour said they would never surrender. "We need to fight until the end. If we don’t fight, Hong Kong will be over," said Ah Lung, 19. The unrest in Hong Kong poses the gravest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. Xi has said he is confident Hong Kong's government can resolve the crisis. Beijing denies interfering in Hong Kong's affairs and has blamed Western countries for stirring up unrest. Investment bank Goldman Sachs announced that due to “ongoing disruption” in Hong Kong, it was postponing a party at its regional headquarters in the city to mark the firm’s 150th anniversary. CEO David Solomon was due to attend.

Hong Kong police fire rubber bullets at university protesters

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