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

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 4th, 2019

Hong Kong enters into 9th straight weekend. Hong Kong police fired tear gas on Saturday night in confrontations with black-clad activists in the city's Kowloon area. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong: 9th straight weekend of protests

9th straight weekend of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong. Watch video to know more.

9th straight weekend of pro democracy protests in Hong Kong

Hong Kong: A timeline of anti-government protests since China handover

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

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

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

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

A bipartisan group of US lawmakers on Friday urged the Trump Administration to suspend future sales of munitions and crowd-control equipment to Hong Kong police which has been accused of using excessive force against anti-government protesters.

A Hong Kong democracy activist, Joshua Wong, this week tweeted pictures of teargas shells and rubber bullets he said were used by police against protesters.

Representatives Christopher Smith and James McGovern, chairs of a congressional human rights commission, made their request in a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross.

"We ask that you suspend future sales of munitions and crowd and riot control equipment to the Hong Kong Police Force and publicly announce that the US&nbsp;will not contribute to the internal repression of peaceful protest in Hong Kong," they wrote.

They also urged the secretaries to push back "against the Hong Kong and Chinese governments` efforts to characterize the demonstrations as `riots` and to blame the US for political instability which they alone created."

The State Department and the Commerce Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

"All these weapons are imported from the United States. Given the innumerable proof of police brutality in recent protests, all countries should call a halt to the sale of arms to the notorious Hong Kong Police," Wong said on Twitter.

Thousands of civil servants joined in the anti-government protests in Hong Kong on Friday for the first time since they started two months ago, defying a warning from the authorities to remain politically neutral.

Protests against a proposed bill that would allow people to be extradited to stand trial in mainland China have grown increasingly violent, with police accused of excessive use of force and failing to protect protesters from suspected gang attacks.&nbsp;

The human rights commission is composed of more than 40 members of the US House of Representatives. Smith is Republican and McGovern a Democrat.

A bipartisan group of US lawmakers on Friday urged the Trump Administration to suspend future sales of munitions and crowd-control equipment to Hong Kong police which has been accused of using excessive force against anti-government protesters.

A bipartisan group of US lawmakers on Friday urged the Trump Administration to suspend future sales of munitions and crowd-control equipment to Hong Kong police which has been accused of using excessive force against anti-government protesters. A Hong Kong democracy activist, Joshua Wong, this week tweeted pictures of teargas shells and rubber bullets he said were used by police against protesters. Representatives Christopher Smith and James McGovern, chairs of a congressional human rights commission, made their request in a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross. "We ask that you suspend future sales of munitions and crowd and riot control equipment to the Hong Kong Police Force and publicly announce that the US will not contribute to the internal repression of peaceful protest in Hong Kong," they wrote. They also urged the secretaries to push back "against the Hong Kong and Chinese governments` efforts to characterize the demonstrations as `riots` and to blame the US for political instability which they alone created." The State Department and the Commerce Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment. "All these weapons are imported from the United States. Given the innumerable proof of police brutality in recent protests, all countries should call a halt to the sale of arms to the notorious Hong Kong Police," Wong said on Twitter. Thousands of civil servants joined in the anti-government protests in Hong Kong on Friday for the first time since they started two months ago, defying a warning from the authorities to remain politically neutral. Protests against a proposed bill that would allow people to be extradited to stand trial in mainland China have grown increasingly violent, with police accused of excessive use of force and failing to protect protesters from suspected gang attacks. The human rights commission is composed of more than 40 members of the US House of Representatives. Smith is Republican and McGovern a Democrat.

Lawmakers urge US to block sales of crowd-control gear to Hong Kong

Thousands gathered in Hong Kong to voice support for the police and call for an end to violence after a wave of protests against an extradition bill triggered clashes between police and activists and plunged the city into crisis. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong Protests: WION ground report from Tsim Sha Tsui

Hong Kong riot police fired tear gas on Saturday evening at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-seize-roads-in-defiance-of-china-warnings-240463">pro-democracy protesters in a popular tourist district</a>, as violence rocked the international finance hub once more despite increasingly stern warnings from China.

The semi-autonomous southern Chinese financial hub has seen two months of protests and clashes triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law that quickly evolved into a wider movement for democratic reforms.

Authorities in Hong Kong and Beijing this week signalled a hardening stance, including with the arrests of dozens of protesters, and the Chinese military saying it was ready to quell the "intolerable" unrest if requested.

But protesters have remained unyielding, vowing to hold multiple occupations and rallies in the coming days.&nbsp;

Saturday's violence -- the ninth consecutive weekend of clashes -- took place in Tsim Sha Tsui, a usually bustling harbourside district known for its luxury malls and hotels.

Officers with gas masks and shields charged at hundreds of protesters who had been besieging a nearby police station.

Masked demonstrators had smashed the windows of cars in the police parking lot and daubed nearby walls with graffiti. One team of protesters created a large slingshot -- held up by two members -- to launch bricks at the building.

Watch: Hong Kong protests - protesters gather in Mong Kok

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Police fired volleys of tear gas followed by baton charges and made multiple arrests.

Earlier in the day tens of thousands of protesters had marched through nearby streets, embracing their mantra "be water" -- a philosophy of unpredictability espoused by local martial arts legend Bruce Lee.

The seized roads, built barricades and even briefly blocked a cross-harbour tunnel.

"We will fight as guerrillas today and be water," a masked and helmeted 19-year-old, who gave her surname Lee, told AFP.

City-wide strike

Hong Kong has witnessed two months of huge rallies -- often followed by violent clashes between police and small groups of hardcore protesters.

And there is no sign of the chaos abating.

Many of the chants and graffiti tags are thrown up Saturday called for residents to join a planned city-wide strike on Monday.

"The more the government suppresses us, the more we will come out until the government responds to our demands," protester Ah Kit, 36, told AFP.

Two marches are also planned for Sunday while the call for strike action appears to be gaining more traction than previous walkouts.

Under the terms of the 1997 handover deal with Britain, the city has rights and liberties unseen on the Chinese mainland, including an independent judiciary and freedom of speech.

But many say those rights are being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders.

Public anger has been compounded by rising inequality and the perception that the city's distinct language and culture are being threatened by ever-closer integration with the Chinese mainland.

Anger towards the police is at record levels with officers increasingly seen as Beijing's enforcers -- although police deny using excessive force and say they are facing increasingly hardcore protesters.&nbsp;

Violence escalating

The past two weekends have seen a surge in violence by both protesters and police, who have repeatedly fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse projectile-throwing crowds.

A mob of pro-government thugs also attacked demonstrators, putting 45 people in hospital.

Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam has made few concessions beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill and shied away from public appearances.

Protesters are demanding her resignation, an independent inquiry into police tactics, an amnesty for those arrested, a permanent withdrawal of the bill, and the right to elect their leaders.

Thousands of pro-government supporters also held a rally in a separate park on Saturday, many waving Chinese flags and chanting slogans in support of the police -- who have refuted allegations of using excessive force.

Beijing has increasingly pitched the anti-government protests as funded by the West.

China has provided little evidence beyond supportive statements from some Western politicians and critics say Beijing's accusations of foreign meddling ignore Hong Kongers' legitimate grievances.

Hong Kong riot police fired tear gas on Saturday evening at pro-democracy protesters in a popular tourist district, as violence rocked the international finance hub once more despite increasingly stern warnings from China.

Hong Kong riot police fired tear gas on Saturday evening at pro-democracy protesters in a popular tourist district, as violence rocked the international finance hub once more despite increasingly stern warnings from China. The semi-autonomous southern Chinese financial hub has seen two months of protests and clashes triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law that quickly evolved into a wider movement for democratic reforms. Authorities in Hong Kong and Beijing this week signalled a hardening stance, including with the arrests of dozens of protesters, and the Chinese military saying it was ready to quell the "intolerable" unrest if requested. But protesters have remained unyielding, vowing to hold multiple occupations and rallies in the coming days. Saturday's violence -- the ninth consecutive weekend of clashes -- took place in Tsim Sha Tsui, a usually bustling harbourside district known for its luxury malls and hotels. Officers with gas masks and shields charged at hundreds of protesters who had been besieging a nearby police station. Masked demonstrators had smashed the windows of cars in the police parking lot and daubed nearby walls with graffiti. One team of protesters created a large slingshot -- held up by two members -- to launch bricks at the building. Watch: Hong Kong protests - protesters gather in Mong Kok × Police fired volleys of tear gas followed by baton charges and made multiple arrests. Earlier in the day tens of thousands of protesters had marched through nearby streets, embracing their mantra "be water" -- a philosophy of unpredictability espoused by local martial arts legend Bruce Lee. The seized roads, built barricades and even briefly blocked a cross-harbour tunnel. "We will fight as guerrillas today and be water," a masked and helmeted 19-year-old, who gave her surname Lee, told AFP. City-wide strike Hong Kong has witnessed two months of huge rallies -- often followed by violent clashes between police and small groups of hardcore protesters. And there is no sign of the chaos abating. Many of the chants and graffiti tags are thrown up Saturday called for residents to join a planned city-wide strike on Monday. "The more the government suppresses us, the more we will come out until the government responds to our demands," protester Ah Kit, 36, told AFP. Two marches are also planned for Sunday while the call for strike action appears to be gaining more traction than previous walkouts. Under the terms of the 1997 handover deal with Britain, the city has rights and liberties unseen on the Chinese mainland, including an independent judiciary and freedom of speech. But many say those rights are being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders. Public anger has been compounded by rising inequality and the perception that the city's distinct language and culture are being threatened by ever-closer integration with the Chinese mainland. Anger towards the police is at record levels with officers increasingly seen as Beijing's enforcers -- although police deny using excessive force and say they are facing increasingly hardcore protesters. Violence escalating The past two weekends have seen a surge in violence by both protesters and police, who have repeatedly fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse projectile-throwing crowds. A mob of pro-government thugs also attacked demonstrators, putting 45 people in hospital. Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam has made few concessions beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill and shied away from public appearances. Protesters are demanding her resignation, an independent inquiry into police tactics, an amnesty for those arrested, a permanent withdrawal of the bill, and the right to elect their leaders. Thousands of pro-government supporters also held a rally in a separate park on Saturday, many waving Chinese flags and chanting slogans in support of the police -- who have refuted allegations of using excessive force. Beijing has increasingly pitched the anti-government protests as funded by the West. China has provided little evidence beyond supportive statements from some Western politicians and critics say Beijing's accusations of foreign meddling ignore Hong Kongers' legitimate grievances.

Hong Kong unrest: Violence rise despite warnings from China, riot police fire tear gas at protesters

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 3rd, 2019

Pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong erected barricades in a popular tourist district and briefly blocked a major tunnel Saturday evening, defying increasingly stern warnings from China over weeks-long unrest that has plunged the city into crisis.

The semi-autonomous southern Chinese financial hub has seen two months of protests and clashes triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law that quickly evolved into a wider movement for democratic reforms.

Authorities in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/hong-kong-protests-city-workers-expats-and-unions-join-clamour-making-it-even-harder-for-china-to-ignore-239983">Hong Kong</a> and Beijing this week signalled a hardening stance, including with the arrests of dozens of protesters, and the Chinese military saying it was ready to quell the "intolerable" unrest if requested.

But protesters have remained unyielding, vowing to hold multiple occupations and rallies into next week, sending tensions soaring once more.

On Saturday they embraced their mantra "be water" a philosophy of unpredictability espoused by local martial arts legend Bruce Lee in a bid to keep police guessing.&nbsp;

Throughout the evening they put up makeshift barricades across multiple roads in Tsim Sha Tsui, a popular shopping and tourist district on the harbourfront, where many luxury malls and hotels shut their doors.

They also blocked one of the three cross-harbour tunnels connecting to the main island, causing widespread traffic chaos, before disappearing after half an hour.&nbsp;

"We will fight as guerrillas today and be water," a masked and helmeted 19-year-old, who gave her surname Lee, told AFP.

In a statement, police called on protesters to "stop their illegal acts" and told members of the public to avoid the area.

City-wide strike

Many of the chants and graffiti tags that were thrown up called for residents to join a planned strike on Monday.

"The more the government suppresses us, the more we will come out until the government responds to our demands," protester Ah Kit, 36, told AFP.

Two marches are also planned for Sunday one on Hong Kong island and the other in the Tseung Kwan O district as well as a city-wide strike on Monday and rallies in seven locations.

The call for strike action appears to be gaining more traction than previous walkouts, with a host of organizations and unions vowing to join.

Hong Kong has witnessed eight consecutive weekends of huge rallies often followed by violent clashes between police and small groups of hardcore protesters.

Under the terms of the 1997 handover deal with Britain, the city has rights and liberties unseen on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-hit-300-billion-worth-of-chinese-goods-with-10-tariff-donald-trump-240021">Chinese</a> mainland, including an independent judiciary and freedom of speech.

But many say those rights are being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders.

Public anger has been compounded by rising inequality and the perception that the city's distinct language and culture are being threatened by ever-closer integration with the Chinese mainland.

On Saturday evening, protesters tore down the Chinese flag from a pole on the waterfront and threw it in the harbour.

Violence escalating

The past two weekends have seen a surge in violence used by both protesters and police, who have repeatedly fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse projectile-throwing crowds.&nbsp;

A mob of pro-government thugs also attacked demonstrators, putting 45 people in hospital.

Hong Kong's police have increasingly adopted tougher tactics, including this week charging 44 protesters with rioting an offence that carries up to 10 years in jail.

Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam has made few concessions beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill and shied away from public appearances.

Protesters are demanding her resignation, an independent inquiry into police tactics, an amnesty for those arrested, a permanent withdrawal of the bill, and the right to elect their leaders.

Thousands of pro-government supporters also held a rally in a separate park on Saturday, many waving Chinese flags and chanting slogans in support of the police who have refuted allegations of using excessive force.

Beijing has increasingly pitched the anti-government protests as funded by the West.

China has provided little evidence beyond supportive statements from some Western politicians and critics say Beijing's accusations of foreign meddling ignore Hong Kongers' legitimate grievances. 
&nbsp;

Pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong erected barricades in a popular tourist district and briefly blocked a major tunnel Saturday evening, defying increasingly stern warnings from China over weeks-long unrest that has plunged the city into crisis.

Pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong erected barricades in a popular tourist district and briefly blocked a major tunnel Saturday evening, defying increasingly stern warnings from China over weeks-long unrest that has plunged the city into crisis. The semi-autonomous southern Chinese financial hub has seen two months of protests and clashes triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law that quickly evolved into a wider movement for democratic reforms. Authorities in Hong Kong and Beijing this week signalled a hardening stance, including with the arrests of dozens of protesters, and the Chinese military saying it was ready to quell the "intolerable" unrest if requested. But protesters have remained unyielding, vowing to hold multiple occupations and rallies into next week, sending tensions soaring once more. On Saturday they embraced their mantra "be water" a philosophy of unpredictability espoused by local martial arts legend Bruce Lee in a bid to keep police guessing. Throughout the evening they put up makeshift barricades across multiple roads in Tsim Sha Tsui, a popular shopping and tourist district on the harbourfront, where many luxury malls and hotels shut their doors. They also blocked one of the three cross-harbour tunnels connecting to the main island, causing widespread traffic chaos, before disappearing after half an hour. "We will fight as guerrillas today and be water," a masked and helmeted 19-year-old, who gave her surname Lee, told AFP. In a statement, police called on protesters to "stop their illegal acts" and told members of the public to avoid the area. City-wide strike Many of the chants and graffiti tags that were thrown up called for residents to join a planned strike on Monday. "The more the government suppresses us, the more we will come out until the government responds to our demands," protester Ah Kit, 36, told AFP. Two marches are also planned for Sunday one on Hong Kong island and the other in the Tseung Kwan O district as well as a city-wide strike on Monday and rallies in seven locations. The call for strike action appears to be gaining more traction than previous walkouts, with a host of organizations and unions vowing to join. Hong Kong has witnessed eight consecutive weekends of huge rallies often followed by violent clashes between police and small groups of hardcore protesters. Under the terms of the 1997 handover deal with Britain, the city has rights and liberties unseen on the Chinese mainland, including an independent judiciary and freedom of speech. But many say those rights are being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders. Public anger has been compounded by rising inequality and the perception that the city's distinct language and culture are being threatened by ever-closer integration with the Chinese mainland. On Saturday evening, protesters tore down the Chinese flag from a pole on the waterfront and threw it in the harbour. Violence escalating The past two weekends have seen a surge in violence used by both protesters and police, who have repeatedly fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse projectile-throwing crowds. A mob of pro-government thugs also attacked demonstrators, putting 45 people in hospital. Hong Kong's police have increasingly adopted tougher tactics, including this week charging 44 protesters with rioting an offence that carries up to 10 years in jail. Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam has made few concessions beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill and shied away from public appearances. Protesters are demanding her resignation, an independent inquiry into police tactics, an amnesty for those arrested, a permanent withdrawal of the bill, and the right to elect their leaders. Thousands of pro-government supporters also held a rally in a separate park on Saturday, many waving Chinese flags and chanting slogans in support of the police who have refuted allegations of using excessive force. Beijing has increasingly pitched the anti-government protests as funded by the West. China has provided little evidence beyond supportive statements from some Western politicians and critics say Beijing's accusations of foreign meddling ignore Hong Kongers' legitimate grievances.

Hong Kong protesters seize roads in defiance of China warnings

Hong Kong protests: Protesters gather in Mong Kok

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-converge-on-hong-kong-police-headquarters-in-anti-govt-demonstration-229127">Anti-government protesters in Hong Kong</a> kicked off a new mass rally on Saturday as they defy increasingly stern warnings from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-state-media-criticise-foreign-hypocrisy-over-hong-kong-after-climbdown-227824">China </a>over weeks-long unrest that has plunged the city into crisis.

The semi-autonomous southern Chinese financial hub has seen two months of protests and clashes triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law that quickly evolved into a wider movement for democratic reforms.

Authorities in Hong Kong and Beijing this week signalled a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tear-gas-rubber-bullets-fired-at-hong-kong-protesters-near-beijings-office-239035">hardening stance</a>, including with the arrests of dozens of protesters, and the Chinese military saying it was ready to quell the "intolerable" unrest if requested.

But protesters have remained unyielding, vowing to hold multiple rallies and marches throughout the weekend and into next week, sending tensions soaring once more.

Thousands of protesters filled a park in the densely populated neighbourhood of Mongkok, which has previously seen clashes between police and demonstrators, listening to speeches and shouting slogans.

Police initially denied activists permission to march through the neighbourhood but later allowed it after an appeal.

Watch- Hong Kong protests: Civil servants join protest

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Two marches are also planned for Sunday -- one on Hong Kong island and the other in the Tseung Kwan O district -- as well as a city-wide strike on Monday and rallies in seven locations.

The call for strike action appears to be gaining more traction than previous walkouts, with a host of organisations and unions vowing to join.

- Sliding freedoms -

Hong Kong has witnessed eight consecutive weekends of huge rallies -- often followed by violent clashes between police and small groups of hardcore protesters.&nbsp;

Under the terms of the 1997 handover deal, the city has rights and liberties unseen on the mainland, including an independent judiciary and freedom of speech.

But many say those rights are being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders.

Public anger has been compounded by rising inequality and the perception that the city's distinct language and culture are being threatened by ever-closer integration with the Chinese mainland.

The past two weekends have seen a surge in violence used by both protesters and police, who have repeatedly fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse projectile-throwing crowds.&nbsp;

A mob of pro-government thugs also attacked protesters, putting 45 people in hospital.

Hong Kong's police have increasingly adopted tougher tactics, including this week charging 44 protesters with rioting -- an offence that carries up to 10 years in jail.

Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam has made few concessions beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill and has made few public appearances.

Protesters are demanding her resignation, an independent inquiry into police tactics, an amnesty for those arrested, a permanent withdrawal of the bill and the right to elect their leaders.

On Friday evening, thousands attended a rally organised by members of Hong Kong's usually tight-lipped civil service -- a remarkable development as they called on their paymasters to meet the protesters' demands.

Many civil servants wore surgical masks to hide their identities after the government warned that employees should show "total loyalty" and could be punished for attending.

Thousands of pro-government supporters also held a rally in a separate park on Saturday, many waving Chinese flags.&nbsp;

Anti-government protesters in Hong Kong kicked off a new mass rally on Saturday as they defy increasingly stern warnings from China over weeks-long unrest that has plunged the city into crisis.

Anti-government protesters in Hong Kong kicked off a new mass rally on Saturday as they defy increasingly stern warnings from China over weeks-long unrest that has plunged the city into crisis. The semi-autonomous southern Chinese financial hub has seen two months of protests and clashes triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law that quickly evolved into a wider movement for democratic reforms. Authorities in Hong Kong and Beijing this week signalled a hardening stance, including with the arrests of dozens of protesters, and the Chinese military saying it was ready to quell the "intolerable" unrest if requested. But protesters have remained unyielding, vowing to hold multiple rallies and marches throughout the weekend and into next week, sending tensions soaring once more. Thousands of protesters filled a park in the densely populated neighbourhood of Mongkok, which has previously seen clashes between police and demonstrators, listening to speeches and shouting slogans. Police initially denied activists permission to march through the neighbourhood but later allowed it after an appeal. Watch- Hong Kong protests: Civil servants join protest × Two marches are also planned for Sunday -- one on Hong Kong island and the other in the Tseung Kwan O district -- as well as a city-wide strike on Monday and rallies in seven locations. The call for strike action appears to be gaining more traction than previous walkouts, with a host of organisations and unions vowing to join. - Sliding freedoms - Hong Kong has witnessed eight consecutive weekends of huge rallies -- often followed by violent clashes between police and small groups of hardcore protesters. Under the terms of the 1997 handover deal, the city has rights and liberties unseen on the mainland, including an independent judiciary and freedom of speech. But many say those rights are being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders. Public anger has been compounded by rising inequality and the perception that the city's distinct language and culture are being threatened by ever-closer integration with the Chinese mainland. The past two weekends have seen a surge in violence used by both protesters and police, who have repeatedly fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse projectile-throwing crowds. A mob of pro-government thugs also attacked protesters, putting 45 people in hospital. Hong Kong's police have increasingly adopted tougher tactics, including this week charging 44 protesters with rioting -- an offence that carries up to 10 years in jail. Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam has made few concessions beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill and has made few public appearances. Protesters are demanding her resignation, an independent inquiry into police tactics, an amnesty for those arrested, a permanent withdrawal of the bill and the right to elect their leaders. On Friday evening, thousands attended a rally organised by members of Hong Kong's usually tight-lipped civil service -- a remarkable development as they called on their paymasters to meet the protesters' demands. Many civil servants wore surgical masks to hide their identities after the government warned that employees should show "total loyalty" and could be punished for attending. Thousands of pro-government supporters also held a rally in a separate park on Saturday, many waving Chinese flags.

Hong Kong protesters defy China warnings with weekend rallies

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 2nd, 2019

Hong Kong civil servants on Friday night kicked off a weekend of anti government protests and unsanctioned rallies in defiance of warnings from China and after a prominent independence campaigner was arrested.

The semi autonomous southern Chinese city has seen two months of unrest triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law that quickly evolved into a wider movement for democratic reforms.

Authorities in Hong Kong and Beijing this week signaled a hardening stance, including with the arrests of dozens of protesters, and the Chinese military indicating it was ready to quell the "intolerable" unrest if asked.

But protesters have remained unyielding, vowing to hold multiple rallies and marches throughout the weekend and into next week, sending tensions soaring once more.

On Friday evening thousands attended a rally organised by members of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protest-turns-violent-chinas-top-policy-unit-to-hold-press-conference-on-monday-239094">Hong Kong's</a> usually tight-lipped civil service, gathering in a park in the city's commercial district and then spilling out into nearby roads.

Many civil servants wore surgical masks to hide their identities after the government warned that employees should show "total loyalty" and could be punished for attending.

"Apart from being a civil servant, I'm also a Hong Konger and I have freedom of assembly," one protester, a civilian working within the police department, told AFP, asking not to be named.&nbsp;

He added that the civil service's political neutrality should not mean "blind support" for the government at all costs.

Unsanctioned marches are also planned for Saturday and Sunday, as well as a city-wide strike on Monday.&nbsp;

Similar illegal marches in the last fortnight have quickly descended into violent clashes with police.

Independence activist arrested

Police said eight people were arrested Thursday night on charges of possessing offensive weapons and explosives following a raid on an industrial building.&nbsp;

They later said they also found one petrol bomb, baseball bats, bows and arrows and iron balls used in slingshots as well as protective clothing.

A senior police source, who asked not to be named, told AFP that independence activist Andy Chan was among those detained.&nbsp;

Chan's small independence party was outlawed last year on the grounds it posed a national security threat, the first such ban since the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

Chan's party contained only a few dozen members, but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijings-new-multi-billion-dollar-starfish-airport-set-to-open-in-september-231977">Beijing</a> sees calls for independence as an absolute red line.

The banning of his party and the expulsion of a Financial Times journalist who chaired a talk with Chan at the city's press club before the party was outlawed were held up as two examples of eroded freedoms in Hong Kong.

Under the terms of the 1997 handover deal, the city has rights and liberties unseen on the mainland, including an independent judiciary and freedom of speech.

But many say those rights are being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders.

A surge in violence

Public anger has been compounded by rising inequality and the perception that the city's distinct language and culture are being threatened by ever-closer integration with the Chinese mainland.

The past two weekends have seen a surge in violence used by both protesters and police, who have repeatedly fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse projectile-throwing crowds.&nbsp;

A mob of pro-government thugs also attacked protesters, putting 45 people in the hospital.

Hong Kong's police have increasingly adopted tougher tactics, including by this week charging 44 protesters with rioting an offence that carries up to 10 years in jail.

Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam has made few concessions beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill, and she has made few public appearances.

Protesters are demanding her resignation, an independent inquiry into police tactics, an amnesty for those arrested, a permanent withdrawal of the bill and the right to elect their leaders.

Hong Kong civil servants on Friday night kicked off a weekend of anti government protests and unsanctioned rallies in defiance of warnings from China and after a prominent independence campaigner was arrested.

Hong Kong civil servants on Friday night kicked off a weekend of anti government protests and unsanctioned rallies in defiance of warnings from China and after a prominent independence campaigner was arrested. The semi autonomous southern Chinese city has seen two months of unrest triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law that quickly evolved into a wider movement for democratic reforms. Authorities in Hong Kong and Beijing this week signaled a hardening stance, including with the arrests of dozens of protesters, and the Chinese military indicating it was ready to quell the "intolerable" unrest if asked. But protesters have remained unyielding, vowing to hold multiple rallies and marches throughout the weekend and into next week, sending tensions soaring once more. On Friday evening thousands attended a rally organised by members of Hong Kong's usually tight-lipped civil service, gathering in a park in the city's commercial district and then spilling out into nearby roads. Many civil servants wore surgical masks to hide their identities after the government warned that employees should show "total loyalty" and could be punished for attending. "Apart from being a civil servant, I'm also a Hong Konger and I have freedom of assembly," one protester, a civilian working within the police department, told AFP, asking not to be named. He added that the civil service's political neutrality should not mean "blind support" for the government at all costs. Unsanctioned marches are also planned for Saturday and Sunday, as well as a city-wide strike on Monday. Similar illegal marches in the last fortnight have quickly descended into violent clashes with police. Independence activist arrested Police said eight people were arrested Thursday night on charges of possessing offensive weapons and explosives following a raid on an industrial building. They later said they also found one petrol bomb, baseball bats, bows and arrows and iron balls used in slingshots as well as protective clothing. A senior police source, who asked not to be named, told AFP that independence activist Andy Chan was among those detained. Chan's small independence party was outlawed last year on the grounds it posed a national security threat, the first such ban since the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997. Chan's party contained only a few dozen members, but Beijing sees calls for independence as an absolute red line. The banning of his party and the expulsion of a Financial Times journalist who chaired a talk with Chan at the city's press club before the party was outlawed were held up as two examples of eroded freedoms in Hong Kong. Under the terms of the 1997 handover deal, the city has rights and liberties unseen on the mainland, including an independent judiciary and freedom of speech. But many say those rights are being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders. A surge in violence Public anger has been compounded by rising inequality and the perception that the city's distinct language and culture are being threatened by ever-closer integration with the Chinese mainland. The past two weekends have seen a surge in violence used by both protesters and police, who have repeatedly fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse projectile-throwing crowds. A mob of pro-government thugs also attacked protesters, putting 45 people in the hospital. Hong Kong's police have increasingly adopted tougher tactics, including by this week charging 44 protesters with rioting an offence that carries up to 10 years in jail. Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam has made few concessions beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill, and she has made few public appearances. Protesters are demanding her resignation, an independent inquiry into police tactics, an amnesty for those arrested, a permanent withdrawal of the bill and the right to elect their leaders.

Hong Kong civil servants defy China with weekend of protest rallies

Pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong geared up Friday for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/hong-kong-protests-city-workers-expats-and-unions-join-clamour-making-it-even-harder-for-china-to-ignore-239983">more rallies in defiance of a series of warnings from China</a> and after a prominent independence campaigner was arrested.

The semi-autonomous southern Chinese city has seen two months of unrest that was triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law but quickly evolved into a wider movement for democratic reforms.

Authorities in Hong Kong and Beijing this week signalled a hardening stance, including with the arrests of dozens of protesters, and the Chinese military described the unrest as "intolerable".

But more protests have been scheduled, starting on Friday evening, with members of Hong Kong's usually tight-lipped civil service due to hold a rally despite a government warning that they could be sacked for doing so.&nbsp;

"Any acts to undermine the principle of political neutrality of the civil service are totally unacceptable," the government said late on Thursday.

Medical workers have also called a rally for Friday evening and there are unsanctioned marches planned for Saturday and Sunday, as well as a city-wide strike on Monday.&nbsp;

Previous unsanctioned marches have quickly descended into violent clashes with police.

Independence activist arrested

Deepening tensions, police said eight people were arrested Thursday night on charges of possessing offensive weapons and explosives following a raid on an industrial building.&nbsp;

In an update on Friday, police said they found one petrol bomb and some smoke grenades.

A senior police source, who asked not to be named, told AFP that independence activist Andy Chan was among those detained and that a "gasoline bomb" was found on the premises.&nbsp;

Chan's small independence party was outlawed last year on the grounds it posed a national security threat, the first such ban since the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

Chan's party contained only a few dozen members, but Beijing sees calls for independence as an absolute red line.

The banning of his party -- and the expulsion of a Financial Times journalist who chaired a talk with Chan at the city's press club before the party was outlawed -- were held up as two examples of eroded freedoms in Hong Kong.

Under the terms of the 1997 handover deal, the city has rights and liberties unseen on the mainland, including an independent judiciary and freedom of speech.

But many say those rights are being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders.

Surge in violence

Public anger has been compounded by rising inequality and the perception that the city's distinct language and culture are being threatened by ever-closer integration with the Chinese mainland.

The past two weekends have seen a surge in violence used by both protesters and police, who have repeatedly fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse projectile-throwing crowds.&nbsp;

A mob of pro-government thugs also attacked protesters, putting 45 people in hospital.

Hong Kong's police have increasingly adopted tougher tactics, including by this week charging 44 protesters with rioting -- an offence that carries up to 10 years in jail.

Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam has made few concessions beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill, and she has made few public appearances.

Protesters are demanding her resignation, an independent inquiry into police tactics, an amnesty for those arrested, a permanent withdrawal of the bill and the right to elect their leaders.

Pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong geared up Friday for more rallies in defiance of a series of warnings from China and after a prominent independence campaigner was arrested.

Pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong geared up Friday for more rallies in defiance of a series of warnings from China and after a prominent independence campaigner was arrested. The semi-autonomous southern Chinese city has seen two months of unrest that was triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law but quickly evolved into a wider movement for democratic reforms. Authorities in Hong Kong and Beijing this week signalled a hardening stance, including with the arrests of dozens of protesters, and the Chinese military described the unrest as "intolerable". But more protests have been scheduled, starting on Friday evening, with members of Hong Kong's usually tight-lipped civil service due to hold a rally despite a government warning that they could be sacked for doing so. "Any acts to undermine the principle of political neutrality of the civil service are totally unacceptable," the government said late on Thursday. Medical workers have also called a rally for Friday evening and there are unsanctioned marches planned for Saturday and Sunday, as well as a city-wide strike on Monday. Previous unsanctioned marches have quickly descended into violent clashes with police. Independence activist arrested Deepening tensions, police said eight people were arrested Thursday night on charges of possessing offensive weapons and explosives following a raid on an industrial building. In an update on Friday, police said they found one petrol bomb and some smoke grenades. A senior police source, who asked not to be named, told AFP that independence activist Andy Chan was among those detained and that a "gasoline bomb" was found on the premises. Chan's small independence party was outlawed last year on the grounds it posed a national security threat, the first such ban since the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997. Chan's party contained only a few dozen members, but Beijing sees calls for independence as an absolute red line. The banning of his party -- and the expulsion of a Financial Times journalist who chaired a talk with Chan at the city's press club before the party was outlawed -- were held up as two examples of eroded freedoms in Hong Kong. Under the terms of the 1997 handover deal, the city has rights and liberties unseen on the mainland, including an independent judiciary and freedom of speech. But many say those rights are being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders. Surge in violence Public anger has been compounded by rising inequality and the perception that the city's distinct language and culture are being threatened by ever-closer integration with the Chinese mainland. The past two weekends have seen a surge in violence used by both protesters and police, who have repeatedly fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse projectile-throwing crowds. A mob of pro-government thugs also attacked protesters, putting 45 people in hospital. Hong Kong's police have increasingly adopted tougher tactics, including by this week charging 44 protesters with rioting -- an offence that carries up to 10 years in jail. Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam has made few concessions beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill, and she has made few public appearances. Protesters are demanding her resignation, an independent inquiry into police tactics, an amnesty for those arrested, a permanent withdrawal of the bill and the right to elect their leaders.

More Hong Kong protests planned despite arrests, Chinese warnings

Senior officers of the Hong Kong police force said at a press conference on Thursday that they have the strength and determination to maintain peace and stability in Hong Kong, and put an end to the violent acts that have lasted for over a month.

Hong Kong police show determination to curb violence

China's Four-Prolonged Strategy To Curb Hong Kong Protests Dismiss, Distract, Threaten, Discredit - China has been employing this four-pronged approach to tackle the protests in Hong Kong. Beijing first dismissed protests as 'illegal', then tried distraction-tactics. China's representatives have provoked violence. What's more? Now Beijing blames the U.S. Palki summarises

Gravitas: Deciphering China's strategy in Hong Kong

As China Discredits The Hong Kong Protests, Here's A Look At The History Of Such Protests People's movements have been consistently put down by rulers. The ones in power admonish such protests and allege foreign intervention. Be it the stance against Anna Hazare's India Against Corruption movement or the Iranian protests in early 2018 or the 1974 students protests in Bihar, rulers discredit protests. Here's a report.

Gravitas: How rulers discredit people's protests

The PLA has remained in barracks since protests started in April, leaving Hong Kong's police force to deal with the massive and often violent protests in the Asian financial hub.

China's Hong Kong PLA garrison releases video with scenes of 'anti-riot' operations

China's People's Liberation Army in Hong Kong released a video showing footage of "anti-riot" exercises. Watch full video to know more.

China's army garrison in Hong Kong releases video with scenes of ánti-riot'operations

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-proposes-consular-access-to-kulbhushan-jadhav-with-riders-239957">Pakistan proposes consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav with riders</a> 
 
The 42-page verdict was ruled 15 votes to one. The only Judge who ruled against is Ad Hoc Judge Jillani.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uighurs-challenge-china-to-prove-missing-relatives-are-free-239974">Uighurs challenge China to prove missing relatives are free</a> 
 
Rights groups and experts say more than one million mostly Muslim ethnic minorities have been rounded up in internment camps in the tightly-controlled northwest region, home to China's Uighur population.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-chinas-army-garrison-in-hong-kong-releases-video-with-anti-riot-scenes-239968">Watch: China's army garrison in Hong Kong releases video with 'anti-riot' scenes</a> 
 
The three-minute video included footage of troops firing guns and rockets, and of light tanks, attack helicopters and missile launchers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rouhani-says-childish-of-us-to-sanction-iran-foreign-minister-zarif-239925">Rouhani says 'childish' of US to sanction Iran foreign minister Zarif</a> 
 
The United States on Wednesday imposed sanctions on Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, blocking any property or interests he has in the United States. But Zarif said he had none.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-asking-asean-allies-to-choose-between-us-and-china-mike-pompeo-239944">Not asking ASEAN allies to 'choose' between US and China: Mike Pompeo</a>

The rivalry between the two superpowers is framed by a trade war that has cramped global growth and seeded uncertainty across Asia's economies.

Pakistan proposes consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav with riders The 42-page verdict was ruled 15 votes to one. The only Judge who ruled against is Ad Hoc Judge Jillani.

Pakistan proposes consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav with riders The 42-page verdict was ruled 15 votes to one. The only Judge who ruled against is Ad Hoc Judge Jillani. Uighurs challenge China to prove missing relatives are free Rights groups and experts say more than one million mostly Muslim ethnic minorities have been rounded up in internment camps in the tightly-controlled northwest region, home to China's Uighur population. Watch: China's army garrison in Hong Kong releases video with 'anti-riot' scenes The three-minute video included footage of troops firing guns and rockets, and of light tanks, attack helicopters and missile launchers. Rouhani says 'childish' of US to sanction Iran foreign minister Zarif The United States on Wednesday imposed sanctions on Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, blocking any property or interests he has in the United States. But Zarif said he had none. Not asking ASEAN allies to 'choose' between US and China: Mike Pompeo The rivalry between the two superpowers is framed by a trade war that has cramped global growth and seeded uncertainty across Asia's economies.

News brief: Big stories of the day

By Michael Joseph Richardson

The Cathay Pacific Airways Flight Attendants Union recently encouraged staff to join protests at Hong Kong’s international airport. It should be noted that Cathay Pacific itself clarified in a note to the Global Times that it was not the event’s organiser, and that the protest didn’t constitute industrial action by its employees.

There have now been eight consecutive weeks of anti-government protests in Hong Kong. They started in opposition to (now suspended) extradition legislation, which would have seen suspects in the special administrative region sent to mainland China, but have since grown into a wider movement calling for the resignation of Carrie Lam, the leader of Hong Kong.

But while it is attracting global attention now, the movement has a long history that puts the unprecedented move of Cathay Pacific’s flight aviation union in context.

A student strike in late September 2014 saw the birth of Occupy Central with Love and Peace (OCLP). The occupation took hold of several key areas of the city that year, with campaigners employing non-violent civil disobedience. It officially lasted for 79 days, although its legacy is still being written.

Back then, the movement was focused on the right to universal suffrage, a fair and transparent electoral system, and ultimately an open democratic process. Pacifist symbols (yellow umbrellas, protective face masks and eye goggles) were deployed against police aggression (pepper spray and tear gas) – and the so-called “Umbrella Revolution” was born.

In 2017, 20 years after Britain’s colonial role of the territory came to an end, Lam, Beijing’s favoured candidate, was appointed Hong Kong’s leader, a move widely criticised by pro-democracy campaigners.

Further controversy followed a year later with the opening of the Hong Kong-Zhuai-Macau Bridge, which was described by independent lawmaker Claudia Mo as an “umbilical cord” to China.

Resistance

The mainland, over time, has been tightening its grip. But recent events at Hong Kong’s international airport and across the city show just how strong the resistance to perceived Chinese influence has become.

The well-educated middle classes are also front and centre of this resistance movement. In Annals of the American Association of Geographers, I argued that the mobilisation of professional, politically-oriented Hong Kong Chinese has seen the movement employing the “weapons of the well-educated”.

The phrase refers to political scientist and anthropologist James C Scott’s important 1980s work Weapons of the Weak, which explored peasant resistance in Malaysia. He described “the ordinary weapons of relatively powerless groups: foot dragging, dissimulation, desertion, false compliance, pilfering, feigned ignorance, slander, arson, sabotage, and so on”.

In modern Hong Kong, however, a very different demographic has been taking a stand. There, justice is being called for by locally born, Hong Kong citizens, many of whom were, or are, students at the city’s universities. This makes the movement harder to ignore and more difficult to silence.

Evolving protest

But the current protests have led me to revise this thinking further and to conclude that the protests have now become the “weapons of the well-connected”. The protests have been reinvigorated by further support from much of the city’s expatriate community, a topic I am currently researching. As part of this, I interviewed a 20-something half British, half Malaysian Chinese working in Hong Kong. Reflecting on their involvement in the anti-extradition protests earlier this month, they stated:

"I do want to reiterate that these events have completely altered my view of HK [Hong Kong] society – particularly the police. You grow up thinking that the police are on your side and will always protect you … but I no longer trust the police and I don’t like them. The force used was completely unnecessary and an abuse of power and authority. I also think the way that the bill [the controversial extradition law] was very quickly rushed through the system was a complete abuse of authority by Carrie Lam and her government. When I was tear-gassed the second time, I was away from the large crowd that the police were kettling. The riot police were standing in a line and had their backs to me; we were about 200 metres behind them – unmoving and unarmed. It suddenly went silent and then I saw at least five gas canisters beneath my feet. ‘Surreal’ doesn’t begin to cover it."

They powerfully finished the interview by saying: “As much as I am now anti-police and anti-establishment, I have never felt more proud to call myself a Hong Konger; and I think many people will feel the same way.”

The role of city workers in the protests certainly shows how things have evolved since the 2014 Umbrella Revolution, which was an overwhelmingly local movement. While the political outlook of Hong Kong’s business elite had previously been largely apolitical, the perceived Chinese encroachment is now so great that even organisations are beginning to speak out.

The protests have already been aided by UK government support, causing increased tensions with the Chinese ambassador in London – and now they have the support of the Cathay Pacific Airways Flight Attendants Union. Hong Kong’s future as a special administrative region of China is unclear, but the connections forged with the international business community have changed the nature of protest in the city. And China will likely find it harder and harder not to listen.

(Michael Joseph Richardson is Lecturer of Human Geography, Newcastle University)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/hong-kong-protests-city-workers-expats-and-unions-join-clamour-making-it-ever-harder-for-china-to-ignore-121138">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 Michael Joseph Richardson The Cathay Pacific Airways Flight Attendants Union recently encouraged staff to join protests at Hong Kong’s international airport. It should be noted that Cathay Pacific itself clarified in a note to the Global Times that it was not the event’s organiser, and that the protest didn’t constitute industrial action by its employees.

By Michael Joseph Richardson The Cathay Pacific Airways Flight Attendants Union recently encouraged staff to join protests at Hong Kong’s international airport. It should be noted that Cathay Pacific itself clarified in a note to the Global Times that it was not the event’s organiser, and that the protest didn’t constitute industrial action by its employees. There have now been eight consecutive weeks of anti-government protests in Hong Kong. They started in opposition to (now suspended) extradition legislation, which would have seen suspects in the special administrative region sent to mainland China, but have since grown into a wider movement calling for the resignation of Carrie Lam, the leader of Hong Kong. But while it is attracting global attention now, the movement has a long history that puts the unprecedented move of Cathay Pacific’s flight aviation union in context. A student strike in late September 2014 saw the birth of Occupy Central with Love and Peace (OCLP). The occupation took hold of several key areas of the city that year, with campaigners employing non-violent civil disobedience. It officially lasted for 79 days, although its legacy is still being written. Back then, the movement was focused on the right to universal suffrage, a fair and transparent electoral system, and ultimately an open democratic process. Pacifist symbols (yellow umbrellas, protective face masks and eye goggles) were deployed against police aggression (pepper spray and tear gas) – and the so-called “Umbrella Revolution” was born. In 2017, 20 years after Britain’s colonial role of the territory came to an end, Lam, Beijing’s favoured candidate, was appointed Hong Kong’s leader, a move widely criticised by pro-democracy campaigners. Further controversy followed a year later with the opening of the Hong Kong-Zhuai-Macau Bridge, which was described by independent lawmaker Claudia Mo as an “umbilical cord” to China. Resistance The mainland, over time, has been tightening its grip. But recent events at Hong Kong’s international airport and across the city show just how strong the resistance to perceived Chinese influence has become. The well-educated middle classes are also front and centre of this resistance movement. In Annals of the American Association of Geographers, I argued that the mobilisation of professional, politically-oriented Hong Kong Chinese has seen the movement employing the “weapons of the well-educated”. The phrase refers to political scientist and anthropologist James C Scott’s important 1980s work Weapons of the Weak, which explored peasant resistance in Malaysia. He described “the ordinary weapons of relatively powerless groups: foot dragging, dissimulation, desertion, false compliance, pilfering, feigned ignorance, slander, arson, sabotage, and so on”. In modern Hong Kong, however, a very different demographic has been taking a stand. There, justice is being called for by locally born, Hong Kong citizens, many of whom were, or are, students at the city’s universities. This makes the movement harder to ignore and more difficult to silence. Evolving protest But the current protests have led me to revise this thinking further and to conclude that the protests have now become the “weapons of the well-connected”. The protests have been reinvigorated by further support from much of the city’s expatriate community, a topic I am currently researching. As part of this, I interviewed a 20-something half British, half Malaysian Chinese working in Hong Kong. Reflecting on their involvement in the anti-extradition protests earlier this month, they stated: "I do want to reiterate that these events have completely altered my view of HK [Hong Kong] society – particularly the police. You grow up thinking that the police are on your side and will always protect you … but I no longer trust the police and I don’t like them. The force used was completely unnecessary and an abuse of power and authority. I also think the way that the bill [the controversial extradition law] was very quickly rushed through the system was a complete abuse of authority by Carrie Lam and her government. When I was tear-gassed the second time, I was away from the large crowd that the police were kettling. The riot police were standing in a line and had their backs to me; we were about 200 metres behind them – unmoving and unarmed. It suddenly went silent and then I saw at least five gas canisters beneath my feet. ‘Surreal’ doesn’t begin to cover it." They powerfully finished the interview by saying: “As much as I am now anti-police and anti-establishment, I have never felt more proud to call myself a Hong Konger; and I think many people will feel the same way.” The role of city workers in the protests certainly shows how things have evolved since the 2014 Umbrella Revolution, which was an overwhelmingly local movement. While the political outlook of Hong Kong’s business elite had previously been largely apolitical, the perceived Chinese encroachment is now so great that even organisations are beginning to speak out. The protests have already been aided by UK government support, causing increased tensions with the Chinese ambassador in London – and now they have the support of the Cathay Pacific Airways Flight Attendants Union. Hong Kong’s future as a special administrative region of China is unclear, but the connections forged with the international business community have changed the nature of protest in the city. And China will likely find it harder and harder not to listen. (Michael Joseph Richardson is Lecturer of Human Geography, Newcastle University) (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.)

Hong Kong protests: City workers, expats and unions join clamour, making it even harder for China to ignore

As <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-appear-in-court-to-face-riot-charge-239669">Hong Kong's political crisis</a> simmers amidst heated protests, China's People's Liberation Army in Hong Kong released a video showing footage of "anti-riot" exercises and its top brass warned violence is "absolutely impermissible".

The three-minute video posted on the Hong Kong garrison's official Weibo social media account late on Wednesday included footage of troops firing guns and rockets, and of light tanks, attack helicopters and missile launchers.

The PLA has remained in barracks since protests started in April, leaving Hong Kong's police force to deal with the massive and often violent protests in the Asian financial hub.

On Wednesday, 44 people were charged with rioting, the first time authorities have resorted to using the rioting charge.

In one sequence in the PLA video, titled "anti-riot drill footage", ranks of troops advance with shields and truncheons on protesters, firing rifles into the air. Tear gas and water cannons rained down on protesters, as armoured personnel carriers with battering rams raced forward, and troops laid barbed wire coils on the ground.

"All consequences are at your own risk," one soldier shouted in Cantonese, the main Chinese dialect in Hong Kong, during the video clip.

A red flag with the words "Warning. Stop charging or we use force" was also held aloft, similar to what Hong Kong police have long used during protests.

At the end of the clip, several protesters with their hands cuffed can be seen being taken away.

Hong Kong has been plunged into its biggest political crisis since the former British colony's return to Chinese rule in 1997 with a wave of protests against a now suspended extradition bill which would see people sent to mainland <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-begun-purchasing-farm-goods-says-china-after-resuming-trade-talks-with-us-239902">China</a> for trial in Communist Party-controlled courts.

The protests which started in April have now transformed into broader demands including the resignation of Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam, and calls for a "free Hong Kong".

As tensions continue to rise, clashes between protesters and police have become increasingly violent.

Chinese authorities have strongly condemned the violence and issued reminders that Hong Kong authorities can request the assistance of the PLA Hong Kong garrison if necessary.

Diplomats and foreign security analysts are watching the situation closely, but believe there's little appetite in Beijing for the PLA to be deployed on the streets of Hong Kong.

The role of the PLA in Hong Kong has long been one of the most sensitive elements of the city's handover to China.

"We believe that the Hong Kong garrison of the People's Liberation Army will continue to become a stabilising pillar for Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said at a briefing in Beijing when asked about the video.

Amid growing speculation troops could be unleashed to quell the violence, police chiefs have insisted their forces are capable of maintaining order.

Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule with a guarantee of its freedoms, including the right to protest and an independent judiciary not enjoyed on the mainland, for at least 50 years.

Under its mini-constitution, the Basic Law, defence and foreign affairs are managed by Communist Party leaders in Beijing.

Chen Daoxiang, the commander of the PLA's Hong Kong garrison said on Wednesday the violent protests in Hong Kong are "absolutely impermissible" according to the state-run China Daily newspaper.

Speaking at a reception to mark the 92nd anniversary of the PLA, Chen said the protests were "putting the bottom line of the "one country, two systems" principle to the test".

He added the PLA would "resolutely safeguard" the country's sovereignty and security, as well as Hong Kong's stability.

In July, Reuters reported that Chen had assured a Pentagon official that Chinese troops will not interfere in the city's affairs despite the political upheaval.

As Hong Kong's political crisis simmers amidst heated protests, China's People's Liberation Army in Hong Kong released a video showing footage of "anti-riot" exercises and its top brass warned violence is "absolutely impermissible".

As Hong Kong's political crisis simmers amidst heated protests, China's People's Liberation Army in Hong Kong released a video showing footage of "anti-riot" exercises and its top brass warned violence is "absolutely impermissible". The three-minute video posted on the Hong Kong garrison's official Weibo social media account late on Wednesday included footage of troops firing guns and rockets, and of light tanks, attack helicopters and missile launchers. The PLA has remained in barracks since protests started in April, leaving Hong Kong's police force to deal with the massive and often violent protests in the Asian financial hub. On Wednesday, 44 people were charged with rioting, the first time authorities have resorted to using the rioting charge. In one sequence in the PLA video, titled "anti-riot drill footage", ranks of troops advance with shields and truncheons on protesters, firing rifles into the air. Tear gas and water cannons rained down on protesters, as armoured personnel carriers with battering rams raced forward, and troops laid barbed wire coils on the ground. "All consequences are at your own risk," one soldier shouted in Cantonese, the main Chinese dialect in Hong Kong, during the video clip. A red flag with the words "Warning. Stop charging or we use force" was also held aloft, similar to what Hong Kong police have long used during protests. At the end of the clip, several protesters with their hands cuffed can be seen being taken away. Hong Kong has been plunged into its biggest political crisis since the former British colony's return to Chinese rule in 1997 with a wave of protests against a now suspended extradition bill which would see people sent to mainland China for trial in Communist Party-controlled courts. The protests which started in April have now transformed into broader demands including the resignation of Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam, and calls for a "free Hong Kong". As tensions continue to rise, clashes between protesters and police have become increasingly violent. Chinese authorities have strongly condemned the violence and issued reminders that Hong Kong authorities can request the assistance of the PLA Hong Kong garrison if necessary. Diplomats and foreign security analysts are watching the situation closely, but believe there's little appetite in Beijing for the PLA to be deployed on the streets of Hong Kong. The role of the PLA in Hong Kong has long been one of the most sensitive elements of the city's handover to China. "We believe that the Hong Kong garrison of the People's Liberation Army will continue to become a stabilising pillar for Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said at a briefing in Beijing when asked about the video. Amid growing speculation troops could be unleashed to quell the violence, police chiefs have insisted their forces are capable of maintaining order. Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule with a guarantee of its freedoms, including the right to protest and an independent judiciary not enjoyed on the mainland, for at least 50 years. Under its mini-constitution, the Basic Law, defence and foreign affairs are managed by Communist Party leaders in Beijing. Chen Daoxiang, the commander of the PLA's Hong Kong garrison said on Wednesday the violent protests in Hong Kong are "absolutely impermissible" according to the state-run China Daily newspaper. Speaking at a reception to mark the 92nd anniversary of the PLA, Chen said the protests were "putting the bottom line of the "one country, two systems" principle to the test". He added the PLA would "resolutely safeguard" the country's sovereignty and security, as well as Hong Kong's stability. In July, Reuters reported that Chen had assured a Pentagon official that Chinese troops will not interfere in the city's affairs despite the political upheaval.

Watch: China's army garrison in Hong Kong releases video with 'anti-riot' scenes

Asian countries turning back wealthy world's waste

Former Hong Kong Chief Executive, Tung Chee-hwa believes that foreign forces might be behind recent protests in Hong Kong. He accused China's Taiwan and the US being behind the attacks. Watch this video to know more.

Former Hong Kong Chief Executive reacts to protests

Eight Weeks & Counting, The Protests In Hong Kong Continue To Escalate Further Hong Kong protests have spilled over to train tracks. Protests flooded the platforms of several train station as normal life gets thrown out of gear. Palki sums up the latest.

Gravitas: Hong Kong tensions escalate as protesters disrupt train services

Protesters have gathered outside the Eastern Law Court Building in Hong Kong on Wednesday ahead of an appearance by 44 fellow protesters who have been charged with rioting. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong protests: Activists protest demonstrators arrests

China's top diplomat on Wednesday warned outside countries not to amplify disputes in the South China Sea, where recent Chinese manoeuvring in the energy-rich waters has rattled regional states and drawn condemnation from the United States.

Chinese Councillor Wang Yi touted progress on an eventual Code of Conduct with the 10-member <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/southeast-asia-should-ban-foreign-trash-imports-environmentalists-228309">Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)</a> after meeting counterparts in the Thai capital.

Tensions have risen in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-holds-military-drills-in-south-china-sea-near-taiwan-239171">South China Sea</a> over recent incidents between Chinese and Vietnamese and Philippine ships, the latest confrontations in a potential global flashpoint where the United States challenges China's sweeping maritime claims.

Wang, who is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Bangkok, reiterated after meeting ASEAN foreign ministers that China opposes interference by countries outside the region.

"We think non-regional countries should not deliberately amplify such differences or disputes left from the past," said Wang, responding to a question on the involvement of US and other non-Asian countries in the discussions.

"Non-regional countries should also not make use of these differences to sow distrust between China and ASEAN countries."

China recently said US criticism of its role in the South China Sea, including comments by Pompeo, were "slanderous".

Wang said China is in discussions to expand and "institutionalise" joint military drills with ASEAN countries in the region following two previous exercises.

The South China Sea was a key topic for ASEAN foreign ministers.

"Concerns were expressed by some ministers on the land reclamations, activities and serious incidents in the area," they said in a final communique.

The reference to "serious incidents" was stronger than that in the communique after their meeting last year, pointing to the extent to which tension over the region has risen.

China claims large parts of the South China Sea through which roughly $3.4 trillion in shipping passes each year. Countries including Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam contest the territorial claims.

China has unnerved the region and angered the United States by installing military equipment and other facilities on artificial islands it has made by reclaiming land and building up reefs and shoals.

Researchers and analysts say the latest standoff between Chinese and Vietnamese vessels could give the United States a new incentive to pressure China.

But they said China was unlikely to want to inflame the situation given its trade dispute with the United States and protests in Hong Kong.

"That tension right now going on between China and Vietnam will be the United States' anchor into making any statements on the South China Sea," said Jay Batongbacal, an expert on the South China Sea at the University of the Philippines.

"What China will be more concerned about is if the US tries to rally international support against China's activities," he said.

China's top diplomat on Wednesday warned outside countries not to amplify disputes in the South China Sea, where recent Chinese manoeuvring in the energy-rich waters has rattled regional states and drawn condemnation from the United States.

China's top diplomat on Wednesday warned outside countries not to amplify disputes in the South China Sea, where recent Chinese manoeuvring in the energy-rich waters has rattled regional states and drawn condemnation from the United States. Chinese Councillor Wang Yi touted progress on an eventual Code of Conduct with the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) after meeting counterparts in the Thai capital. Tensions have risen in the South China Sea over recent incidents between Chinese and Vietnamese and Philippine ships, the latest confrontations in a potential global flashpoint where the United States challenges China's sweeping maritime claims. Wang, who is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Bangkok, reiterated after meeting ASEAN foreign ministers that China opposes interference by countries outside the region. "We think non-regional countries should not deliberately amplify such differences or disputes left from the past," said Wang, responding to a question on the involvement of US and other non-Asian countries in the discussions. "Non-regional countries should also not make use of these differences to sow distrust between China and ASEAN countries." China recently said US criticism of its role in the South China Sea, including comments by Pompeo, were "slanderous". Wang said China is in discussions to expand and "institutionalise" joint military drills with ASEAN countries in the region following two previous exercises. The South China Sea was a key topic for ASEAN foreign ministers. "Concerns were expressed by some ministers on the land reclamations, activities and serious incidents in the area," they said in a final communique. The reference to "serious incidents" was stronger than that in the communique after their meeting last year, pointing to the extent to which tension over the region has risen. China claims large parts of the South China Sea through which roughly $3.4 trillion in shipping passes each year. Countries including Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam contest the territorial claims. China has unnerved the region and angered the United States by installing military equipment and other facilities on artificial islands it has made by reclaiming land and building up reefs and shoals. Researchers and analysts say the latest standoff between Chinese and Vietnamese vessels could give the United States a new incentive to pressure China. But they said China was unlikely to want to inflame the situation given its trade dispute with the United States and protests in Hong Kong. "That tension right now going on between China and Vietnam will be the United States' anchor into making any statements on the South China Sea," said Jay Batongbacal, an expert on the South China Sea at the University of the Philippines. "What China will be more concerned about is if the US tries to rally international support against China's activities," he said.

China warns outsiders not to 'sow distrust' in South China Sea

Hong Kong protest: 44 people charged with rioting for 10 years in jail. Watch video to know more.

Hong Kong protest: 44 people charged with rioting for 10 years in jail

Hong Kong's economy remained sluggish in the second quarter amid the ongoing US-China trade dispute, government figures released Wednesday showed, as weeks of civil unrest threatened further headwinds in the financial hub.

Beijing and Washington have already imposed duties on more than $360 billion in two-way trade, roiling global financial markets and weighing heavily on manufacturing output in both countries.

The city's economy grew 0.6 per cent in the three months to June, the same rate as the first quarter but down from the 1.2 per cent recorded at the end of last year.

"Overall economic performance was subdued," the government's statistics department said in a statement, blaming a 5.4 per cent drop in exports and "sluggish" domestic demand.

US officials met their Chinese counterparts in Shanghai on Wednesday in an attempt to resolve the yearlong trade dispute, but talks ended earlier than expected without signs of concrete progress.

The financial hub's chief executive Carrie Lam had earlier warned business leaders that subdued growth was forecast to continue through the end of the year as the trade row continued.

There was "no room for optimism for the second quarter and the entire year", Lam said Wednesday, according to a government statement.

Semi-autonomous <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-appear-in-court-to-face-riot-charge-239669">Hong Kong has endured more than seven weeks of protests</a> that began with a government bid to introduce a law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China and have since evolved into a movement for deeper democratic reforms.

Analysts say that the unrest could signal further economic woes in the city.

"Growing discontent with the heavy-handed police response, public backlashes, and the government's seeming inability to address the public's concerns could cause long-lasting damage to business confidence," said Andrew Fennell, director of credit rating agency Fitch.

Hong Kong's economy remained sluggish in the second quarter amid the ongoing US-China trade dispute, government figures released Wednesday showed, as weeks of civil unrest threatened further headwinds in the financial hub.

Hong Kong's economy remained sluggish in the second quarter amid the ongoing US-China trade dispute, government figures released Wednesday showed, as weeks of civil unrest threatened further headwinds in the financial hub. Beijing and Washington have already imposed duties on more than $360 billion in two-way trade, roiling global financial markets and weighing heavily on manufacturing output in both countries. The city's economy grew 0.6 per cent in the three months to June, the same rate as the first quarter but down from the 1.2 per cent recorded at the end of last year. "Overall economic performance was subdued," the government's statistics department said in a statement, blaming a 5.4 per cent drop in exports and "sluggish" domestic demand. US officials met their Chinese counterparts in Shanghai on Wednesday in an attempt to resolve the yearlong trade dispute, but talks ended earlier than expected without signs of concrete progress. The financial hub's chief executive Carrie Lam had earlier warned business leaders that subdued growth was forecast to continue through the end of the year as the trade row continued. There was "no room for optimism for the second quarter and the entire year", Lam said Wednesday, according to a government statement. Semi-autonomous Hong Kong has endured more than seven weeks of protests that began with a government bid to introduce a law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China and have since evolved into a movement for deeper democratic reforms. Analysts say that the unrest could signal further economic woes in the city. "Growing discontent with the heavy-handed police response, public backlashes, and the government's seeming inability to address the public's concerns could cause long-lasting damage to business confidence," said Andrew Fennell, director of credit rating agency Fitch.

Hong Kong growth stalls amid trade war, protests

Protesters have gathered outside the Eastern Law Court Building in Hong Kong on Wednesday. More than 40 people appeared in a Hong Kong court rioting for their role in a recent protest that turned violent when thousands of activists clashed with police near Beijing's main representative office in the city. Watch this video to know more.

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Watch: China's army garrison in Hong Kong releases video with 'anti-riot' scenes