The United States said on Monday it was gravely concerned about proposed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/government-has-become-dictatorship-hong-kong-protestors-call-on-supporters-to-rally-outside-parliament-225932">amendments to Hong Kong</a> laws that would allow suspects to be extradited to mainland China and warned that such a move could jeopardize the special status Washington affords the territory.

State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus told a regular news briefing "the continued erosion of the 'one country, two systems' framework puts at risk Hong Kong's long-established special status in international affairs."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hong-kongs-largest-protest-since-1997-226084/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Another State Department official said Ortagus was referring the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-is-hong-kongs-china-extradition-plan-so-controversial-226044">United States–Hong Kong Policy Act </a>of 1992, which establishes the legal framework by which Washington accords Hong Kong special treatment distinct from the rest of China for purposes of US&nbsp;domestic law.

&nbsp;

"The United States expresses its grave concern about the Hong Kong government’s proposed amendments to its fugitive offenders ordinance," Ortagus said.

She said a peaceful demonstration on Sunday by hundreds of thousands of people in Hong Kong "clearly shows the public’s opposition to the proposed amendments."

"The United States shares the concern of many in Hong Kong that the lack of procedural protection in the proposed amendments could undermine Hong Kong’s autonomy and negatively impact the territory’s longstanding protections of human rights, fundamental freedoms and democratic values," she said.

Ortagus said the United States was concerned that the amendments could damage Hong Kong’s business environment "and subject our citizens residing in or visiting Hong Kong to China’s capricious judicial system."

"Any amendments to the fugitive offenders ordinance should be pursued with great care and in full consultation with a broad range of local and international stakeholders who may be affected by the amendments," she said.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam vowed on Monday to push ahead with the amendments despite the city's biggest protest since its handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997.

Britain handed Hong Kong back to China under a "one country, two systems" formula with guarantees that its autonomy and freedoms, including an independent justice system, would be protected.

But many accuse China of extensive meddling in many sectors, denying democratic reforms and squeezing freedoms.

A 1992 U.S. law recognises Hong Kong's special status and allows the United States to engage with it as a non-sovereign entity distinct from China in matters of trade and economics. Areas of special treatment include visas, law enforcement, including extraditions, and investment.

A U.S. congressional commission said last month that amending the extradition laws could provide grounds for Washington to re-examine elements of its relationship with Hong Kong outlined in the 1992 law.

In its 2019 report on the Hong Kong Policy Act released in March, the State Department assessed that Hong Kong maintained a sufficient – although diminished – degree of autonomy under the one country, two systems framework to justify continued special treatment.

Analysts say any move to end such special treatment could prove self-defeating for the United States which has benefited from the business-friendly conditions in the territory.

According to the State Department, 85,000 U.S. citizens lived in Hong Kong in 2018 and more than 1,300 U.S. companies operate there, including nearly every major U.S. financial firm.

The territory is a major destination for U.S. legal and accounting services and in 2018 the largest U.S. bilateral trade-in-goods surplus was with Hong Kong at $31.1 billion.

The United States said on Monday it was gravely concerned about proposed amendments to Hong Kong laws that would allow suspects to be extradited to mainland China and warned that such a move could jeopardize the special status Washington affords the territory.

The United States said on Monday it was gravely concerned about proposed amendments to Hong Kong laws that would allow suspects to be extradited to mainland China and warned that such a move could jeopardize the special status Washington affords the territory. State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus told a regular news briefing "the continued erosion of the 'one country, two systems' framework puts at risk Hong Kong's long-established special status in international affairs." Another State Department official said Ortagus was referring the United States–Hong Kong Policy Act of 1992, which establishes the legal framework by which Washington accords Hong Kong special treatment distinct from the rest of China for purposes of US domestic law. "The United States expresses its grave concern about the Hong Kong government’s proposed amendments to its fugitive offenders ordinance," Ortagus said. She said a peaceful demonstration on Sunday by hundreds of thousands of people in Hong Kong "clearly shows the public’s opposition to the proposed amendments." "The United States shares the concern of many in Hong Kong that the lack of procedural protection in the proposed amendments could undermine Hong Kong’s autonomy and negatively impact the territory’s longstanding protections of human rights, fundamental freedoms and democratic values," she said. Ortagus said the United States was concerned that the amendments could damage Hong Kong’s business environment "and subject our citizens residing in or visiting Hong Kong to China’s capricious judicial system." "Any amendments to the fugitive offenders ordinance should be pursued with great care and in full consultation with a broad range of local and international stakeholders who may be affected by the amendments," she said. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam vowed on Monday to push ahead with the amendments despite the city's biggest protest since its handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997. Britain handed Hong Kong back to China under a "one country, two systems" formula with guarantees that its autonomy and freedoms, including an independent justice system, would be protected. But many accuse China of extensive meddling in many sectors, denying democratic reforms and squeezing freedoms. A 1992 U.S. law recognises Hong Kong's special status and allows the United States to engage with it as a non-sovereign entity distinct from China in matters of trade and economics. Areas of special treatment include visas, law enforcement, including extraditions, and investment. A U.S. congressional commission said last month that amending the extradition laws could provide grounds for Washington to re-examine elements of its relationship with Hong Kong outlined in the 1992 law. In its 2019 report on the Hong Kong Policy Act released in March, the State Department assessed that Hong Kong maintained a sufficient – although diminished – degree of autonomy under the one country, two systems framework to justify continued special treatment. Analysts say any move to end such special treatment could prove self-defeating for the United States which has benefited from the business-friendly conditions in the territory. According to the State Department, 85,000 U.S. citizens lived in Hong Kong in 2018 and more than 1,300 U.S. companies operate there, including nearly every major U.S. financial firm. The territory is a major destination for U.S. legal and accounting services and in 2018 the largest U.S. bilateral trade-in-goods surplus was with Hong Kong at $31.1 billion.

Changes in fugitive offenders ordinance could undermine Hong Kong’s autonomy: US

Protests Intensify In Hong Kong Against New Extradition Bill

Gravitas: Hong Kong's largest protest since 1997

Thousands filled the streets of Hong Kong on Sunday in a last bid to thwart a proposed extradition law that would allow suspects to be sent to China to face trial. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong sees anti-extradition protests

"Foreign forces" are trying to hurt China by creating chaos in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/violence-breaks-out-as-police-try-to-clear-hong-kong-protesters-225784">Hong Kong over an extradition bill </a>that has prompted mass protests in the former British colony, an official Chinese newspaper said on Monday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-a-million-marching-in-hong-kong-225756">Also Read:&nbsp;&nbsp;Why a million marching in Hong Kong?</a>

Riot police surrounded Hong Kong's parliament early on Monday after what had been a peaceful million-strong protest against the bill descended into running clashes between police and protesters.

Hundreds of thousands had jammed Hong Kong's streets earlier on Sunday to protest against the bill in the biggest demonstration in years. Many said they feared it put the city's vaunted legal independence at risk.

The China Daily said in an editorial the law was much-needed legislation.

"Any fair-minded person would deem the amendment bill a legitimate, sensible and reasonable piece of legislation that would strengthen Hong Kong's rule of law and deliver justice," it said.

"Unfortunately, some Hong Kong residents have been hoodwinked by the opposition camp and their foreign allies into supporting the anti-extradition campaign."

Some protesters in the Special Administration Region (SAR)had been misled about the changes proposed in the law, while others were trying to promote a political agenda, the English-language publication said.

"They have failed to realise that the opposition camp is using them merely as pawns in its manoeuvres to reap political gains by damaging the SAR government's credibility and reputation, or that some foreign forces are seizing the opportunity to advance their own strategy to hurt China by trying to create havoc in Hong Kong," the China Daily said.

It did not say who those foreign forces might be.

Foreign governments have expressed concern at the law, warning of the impact on Hong Kong's reputation as an international financial hub and noting that foreigners wanted in China risked getting ensnared in Hong Kong.

Human rights groups have repeatedly cited the alleged use of torture, arbitrary detentions, forced confessions and problems accessing lawyers in China.

Hong Kong officials have defended the plans, even as they raised the threshold of extraditable offences to crimes carrying penalties of seven years or more.

Another Chinese newspaper, the widely read Global Times tabloid, said on Monday that Hong Kong opposition groups and their international supporters were "politically hyping up" normal Hong Kong legislative activity.

The Hong Kong government would not back down, said the paper, which is published by the ruling Communist Party's official People's Daily.

"The Hong Kong SAR government and mainstream public opinion have worked hard for rule of law and righteousness, and will absolutely not give up halfway," it said in an editorial in its main Chinese-language edition.

The protests were otherwise barely mentioned in mainland China. Searches on Weibo, China's answer to Twitter, took users to reports by pro-Beijing Hong Kong newspapers, including the Wen Wei Po and Ta Kung Pao.

BBC and CNN reports on the protest were blanked out in China, although the channels can only be viewed in high-end hotels and a small number of apartment buildings and are not available to most Chinese.

"Foreign forces" are trying to hurt China by creating chaos in Hong Kong over an extradition bill that has prompted mass protests in the former British colony, an official Chinese newspaper said on Monday.

"Foreign forces" are trying to hurt China by creating chaos in Hong Kong over an extradition bill that has prompted mass protests in the former British colony, an official Chinese newspaper said on Monday. Also Read: Why a million marching in Hong Kong? Riot police surrounded Hong Kong's parliament early on Monday after what had been a peaceful million-strong protest against the bill descended into running clashes between police and protesters. Hundreds of thousands had jammed Hong Kong's streets earlier on Sunday to protest against the bill in the biggest demonstration in years. Many said they feared it put the city's vaunted legal independence at risk. The China Daily said in an editorial the law was much-needed legislation. "Any fair-minded person would deem the amendment bill a legitimate, sensible and reasonable piece of legislation that would strengthen Hong Kong's rule of law and deliver justice," it said. "Unfortunately, some Hong Kong residents have been hoodwinked by the opposition camp and their foreign allies into supporting the anti-extradition campaign." Some protesters in the Special Administration Region (SAR)had been misled about the changes proposed in the law, while others were trying to promote a political agenda, the English-language publication said. "They have failed to realise that the opposition camp is using them merely as pawns in its manoeuvres to reap political gains by damaging the SAR government's credibility and reputation, or that some foreign forces are seizing the opportunity to advance their own strategy to hurt China by trying to create havoc in Hong Kong," the China Daily said. It did not say who those foreign forces might be. Foreign governments have expressed concern at the law, warning of the impact on Hong Kong's reputation as an international financial hub and noting that foreigners wanted in China risked getting ensnared in Hong Kong. Human rights groups have repeatedly cited the alleged use of torture, arbitrary detentions, forced confessions and problems accessing lawyers in China. Hong Kong officials have defended the plans, even as they raised the threshold of extraditable offences to crimes carrying penalties of seven years or more. Another Chinese newspaper, the widely read Global Times tabloid, said on Monday that Hong Kong opposition groups and their international supporters were "politically hyping up" normal Hong Kong legislative activity. The Hong Kong government would not back down, said the paper, which is published by the ruling Communist Party's official People's Daily. "The Hong Kong SAR government and mainstream public opinion have worked hard for rule of law and righteousness, and will absolutely not give up halfway," it said in an editorial in its main Chinese-language edition. The protests were otherwise barely mentioned in mainland China. Searches on Weibo, China's answer to Twitter, took users to reports by pro-Beijing Hong Kong newspapers, including the Wen Wei Po and Ta Kung Pao. BBC and CNN reports on the protest were blanked out in China, although the channels can only be viewed in high-end hotels and a small number of apartment buildings and are not available to most Chinese.

Foreign forces, Opposition creating havoc in Hong Kong: China daily

Why is Hong Kong's China extradition plan so controversial?

Hundreds of thousands of protesters marched through Hong Kong on Sunday to voice their opposition to government-sponsored legislation that would allow people to be extradited to mainland China to face charges.

Massive extradition bill protest fills HK streets

Police unleash force on Hong Kong protesters. To know more watch the video

WION CHAT: Patrick Fok, Wion Correspondent on Hong Kong protest

Why a million marching in Hong Kong?

Several hundred thousand people jammed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huge-hong-kong-protest-expected-in-last-push-to-scrap-extradition-bill-225466">Hong Kong's streets on Sunday</a> in the last bid to thwart a proposed extradition law that would allow suspects to be sent to China to face trial, with police bracing for the biggest march in the city in 15 years.

Police chiefs called for public restraint, government-funded broadcaster RTHK reported, as they mobilised more than 2,000 officers for a march that organisers expected to draw more than half a million people.

That would make it the biggest rally since a similar number turned out in 2003 to challenge government plans for tighter national security laws, which were later shelved.

Police and organisers had yet to give estimates, but as tens of thousands reached the Legislative Council in Admiralty business district, the starting point in Victoria Park was crowded with thousands more still waiting to join the march.

Streets were packed along the route, with Reuters witnesses at various key points estimating the crowd at several hundred strong.

Debates start at the council on Wednesday over the amendments to the Fugitive Offenders Ordinance. The bill could be passed into law by the end of June.

Chants of "no China extradition, no evil law" echoed through the high-rise city streets, while other marchers called for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-hong-kong-lawyers-march-against-china-extradition-plans-225042">Hong Kong's</a> Chief Executive Carrie Lam to step down. One protester held a sign reading "Carry off Carrie".

Lam has tweaked the proposals but has refused to withdraw the bill, saying it is vital to plug a long-standing "loophole".

The genial crowd included young families pushing babies in prams as well as the elderly braving 32 degrees C (90°F) heat, some spraying each other with water misters.

Opposition to the proposed bill has united a broad range of the community, from usually pro-establishment business people and lawyers to students, pro-democracy figures and religious groups.

Insurance agents, executives and small entrepreneurs joined bus drivers and mechanics, with Reuters speaking to dozens of people saying it was their first protest march.

"I come here to fight," said a wheelchair-bound, 78-year-old man surnamed Lai, who was among the first to arrive.

School teacher Garry Chiu joined the protest with his wife and 1-year-old daughter, saying "it is no longer about me".

"I need to save my daughter. If the law is implemented anyone can disappear from Hong Kong. No one will get justice in China. We know there are no human rights," he said.

"The extradition bill will directly threaten the core values of Hong Kong and rule of law," said 21-year-old Kelvin Tam, a student in London. "It will remove the firewall of Hong Kong judicial independence."

Sunday protests were also being planned in 25 cities globally, including London, Sydney, New York and Chicago.

The changes will simplify case-by-case arrangements to allow the extradition of wanted suspects to jurisdictions, including mainland China, Macau and Taiwan, beyond the 20 that Hong Kong already has extradition treaties with.

But it is the prospect of renditions to mainland China that has alarmed many in Hong Kong. The former British colony was handed back to Chinese rule in 1997 amid guarantees of autonomy and freedoms, including a separate legal system.

"It's a proposal, or a set of proposals, which strike a terrible blow ... against the rule of law, against Hong Kong's stability and security, against Hong Kong's position as a great international trading hub," the last British governor, Chris Patten, said on Thursday.

Opponents of the plan say they deeply question the fairness and transparency of the Chinese court system and worry about security forces contriving charges.

Foreign governments have also expressed concern, warning of the impact on Hong Kong's reputation as an international financial hub, and noting that foreigners wanted in China risk getting ensnared in Hong Kong.

The concerns were highlighted on Saturday with news that a local high court judge had been reprimanded by the chief justice after his signature appeared on a public petition against the bill.

Reuters reported earlier that several senior Hong Kong judges were concerned about the changes, noting a lack of trust in mainland courts as well as the limited nature of extradition hearings.

Human rights groups have repeatedly expressed concerns about the use of torture, arbitrary detentions, forced confessions and problems accessing lawyers in China.

Hong Kong officials have defended the plans, even as they raised the threshold of extraditable offences to crimes carrying penalties of seven years or more.

They say the laws carry adequate safeguards, including the protection of independent local judges who will hear cases before any approval by the Hong Kong chief executive. No-one will be extradited if they face political or religious persecution or torture, or the death penalty.

"We continue to listen to a wide cross-section of views and opinions and remain to open to suggestions on ways to improve the new regime," a government official said on Sunday.

Several hundred thousand people jammed Hong Kong's streets on Sunday in the last bid to thwart a proposed extradition law that would allow suspects to be sent to China to face trial, with police bracing for the biggest march in the city in 15 years.

Several hundred thousand people jammed Hong Kong's streets on Sunday in the last bid to thwart a proposed extradition law that would allow suspects to be sent to China to face trial, with police bracing for the biggest march in the city in 15 years. Police chiefs called for public restraint, government-funded broadcaster RTHK reported, as they mobilised more than 2,000 officers for a march that organisers expected to draw more than half a million people. That would make it the biggest rally since a similar number turned out in 2003 to challenge government plans for tighter national security laws, which were later shelved. Police and organisers had yet to give estimates, but as tens of thousands reached the Legislative Council in Admiralty business district, the starting point in Victoria Park was crowded with thousands more still waiting to join the march. Streets were packed along the route, with Reuters witnesses at various key points estimating the crowd at several hundred strong. Debates start at the council on Wednesday over the amendments to the Fugitive Offenders Ordinance. The bill could be passed into law by the end of June. Chants of "no China extradition, no evil law" echoed through the high-rise city streets, while other marchers called for Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam to step down. One protester held a sign reading "Carry off Carrie". Lam has tweaked the proposals but has refused to withdraw the bill, saying it is vital to plug a long-standing "loophole". The genial crowd included young families pushing babies in prams as well as the elderly braving 32 degrees C (90°F) heat, some spraying each other with water misters. Opposition to the proposed bill has united a broad range of the community, from usually pro-establishment business people and lawyers to students, pro-democracy figures and religious groups. Insurance agents, executives and small entrepreneurs joined bus drivers and mechanics, with Reuters speaking to dozens of people saying it was their first protest march. "I come here to fight," said a wheelchair-bound, 78-year-old man surnamed Lai, who was among the first to arrive. School teacher Garry Chiu joined the protest with his wife and 1-year-old daughter, saying "it is no longer about me". "I need to save my daughter. If the law is implemented anyone can disappear from Hong Kong. No one will get justice in China. We know there are no human rights," he said. "The extradition bill will directly threaten the core values of Hong Kong and rule of law," said 21-year-old Kelvin Tam, a student in London. "It will remove the firewall of Hong Kong judicial independence." Sunday protests were also being planned in 25 cities globally, including London, Sydney, New York and Chicago. The changes will simplify case-by-case arrangements to allow the extradition of wanted suspects to jurisdictions, including mainland China, Macau and Taiwan, beyond the 20 that Hong Kong already has extradition treaties with. But it is the prospect of renditions to mainland China that has alarmed many in Hong Kong. The former British colony was handed back to Chinese rule in 1997 amid guarantees of autonomy and freedoms, including a separate legal system. "It's a proposal, or a set of proposals, which strike a terrible blow ... against the rule of law, against Hong Kong's stability and security, against Hong Kong's position as a great international trading hub," the last British governor, Chris Patten, said on Thursday. Opponents of the plan say they deeply question the fairness and transparency of the Chinese court system and worry about security forces contriving charges. Foreign governments have also expressed concern, warning of the impact on Hong Kong's reputation as an international financial hub, and noting that foreigners wanted in China risk getting ensnared in Hong Kong. The concerns were highlighted on Saturday with news that a local high court judge had been reprimanded by the chief justice after his signature appeared on a public petition against the bill. Reuters reported earlier that several senior Hong Kong judges were concerned about the changes, noting a lack of trust in mainland courts as well as the limited nature of extradition hearings. Human rights groups have repeatedly expressed concerns about the use of torture, arbitrary detentions, forced confessions and problems accessing lawyers in China. Hong Kong officials have defended the plans, even as they raised the threshold of extraditable offences to crimes carrying penalties of seven years or more. They say the laws carry adequate safeguards, including the protection of independent local judges who will hear cases before any approval by the Hong Kong chief executive. No-one will be extradited if they face political or religious persecution or torture, or the death penalty. "We continue to listen to a wide cross-section of views and opinions and remain to open to suggestions on ways to improve the new regime," a government official said on Sunday.

Hundreds of thousands march in Hong Kong to protest China extradition bill

Thousands of black-clad <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/in-china-controlled-hong-kong-freedom-is-the-biggest-casualty-224516">Hong Kong</a> lawyers took to the streets Thursday in a silent march against a controversial extradition law proposal, as the city's last colonial governor slammed the plan as "a terrible blow".

The city's pro-Beijing government is pushing a bill through the legislature that would allow extraditions to any jurisdiction with which it doesn't already have a treaty -- including mainland China for the first time.&nbsp;

The proposal has sparked some of the biggest protests the city has seen in recent years as well as criticism from influential legal groups, business associations and western diplomats.

This week has seen escalating criticism from the city's influential legal communities, including the Law Society -- which published a detailed critique of the proposals -- adding to opposition already voiced by the Bar Association and multiple chambers of commerce.

Critics fear the law if passed, will entangle people in China's opaque and politicised court system.

The lawyers, mostly dressed in black, walked in silence from the Court of Final Appeal to the government headquarters, where they gathered to observe three minutes of silence.

Organisers said around 2,500 to 3,000 people attended the march.

"As you can all see that they come out for one reason and one reason only because they see there is a threat to the rule of law in Hong Kong," said lawmaker Dennis Kwok, who organised the march.

"This extradition bill, if passed, would do irreparable damage to our legal system, to the rule of law, to the values that we treasure."

Legal professionals have gathered to protest only five times since the former British colony was handed to China.&nbsp;

Pro-democracy heavyweight and lawyer Martin Lee said: "Once the bill becomes law, we can not guarantee the safety of any person living or working in Hong Kong, or even passing by Hong Kong."

Another former lawmaker, Audrey Eu, added: "This amendment is being rushed through with indecent and inexplicable haste. There is absolutely no justification for pushing it through like this."&nbsp;

Earlier, Hong Kong's last British governor, Chris Patten, described the plans to allow extraditions to China as "a terrible blow" to the financial hub's reputation.

"It's a proposal, or a set of proposals, which strike a terrible blow... against the rule of law, against Hong Kong's stability and security, against Hong Kong's position as a great international trading hub," he said in a video statement.

The government has argued the proposal is needed to plug existing loopholes and that the law needs to be passed quickly in order to extradite a Hong Kong man who is wanted in Taiwan for murdering his girlfriend.

But critics fear the Taiwanese case is being used to ram the law through the city's parliament at the behest of Beijing.&nbsp;

Patten described the move as an attempt "to remove the firewall between Hong Kong's rule of law" and China "where there aren't any independent courts, where the courts and the security services and the party's rules... are rolled all together".

Thousands of black-clad Hong Kong lawyers took to the streets Thursday in a silent march against a controversial extradition law proposal, as the city's last colonial governor slammed the plan as "a terrible blow".

Thousands of black-clad Hong Kong lawyers took to the streets Thursday in a silent march against a controversial extradition law proposal, as the city's last colonial governor slammed the plan as "a terrible blow". The city's pro-Beijing government is pushing a bill through the legislature that would allow extraditions to any jurisdiction with which it doesn't already have a treaty -- including mainland China for the first time. The proposal has sparked some of the biggest protests the city has seen in recent years as well as criticism from influential legal groups, business associations and western diplomats. This week has seen escalating criticism from the city's influential legal communities, including the Law Society -- which published a detailed critique of the proposals -- adding to opposition already voiced by the Bar Association and multiple chambers of commerce. Critics fear the law if passed, will entangle people in China's opaque and politicised court system. The lawyers, mostly dressed in black, walked in silence from the Court of Final Appeal to the government headquarters, where they gathered to observe three minutes of silence. Organisers said around 2,500 to 3,000 people attended the march. "As you can all see that they come out for one reason and one reason only because they see there is a threat to the rule of law in Hong Kong," said lawmaker Dennis Kwok, who organised the march. "This extradition bill, if passed, would do irreparable damage to our legal system, to the rule of law, to the values that we treasure." Legal professionals have gathered to protest only five times since the former British colony was handed to China. Pro-democracy heavyweight and lawyer Martin Lee said: "Once the bill becomes law, we can not guarantee the safety of any person living or working in Hong Kong, or even passing by Hong Kong." Another former lawmaker, Audrey Eu, added: "This amendment is being rushed through with indecent and inexplicable haste. There is absolutely no justification for pushing it through like this." Earlier, Hong Kong's last British governor, Chris Patten, described the plans to allow extraditions to China as "a terrible blow" to the financial hub's reputation. "It's a proposal, or a set of proposals, which strike a terrible blow... against the rule of law, against Hong Kong's stability and security, against Hong Kong's position as a great international trading hub," he said in a video statement. The government has argued the proposal is needed to plug existing loopholes and that the law needs to be passed quickly in order to extradite a Hong Kong man who is wanted in Taiwan for murdering his girlfriend. But critics fear the Taiwanese case is being used to ram the law through the city's parliament at the behest of Beijing. Patten described the move as an attempt "to remove the firewall between Hong Kong's rule of law" and China "where there aren't any independent courts, where the courts and the security services and the party's rules... are rolled all together".

Thousands of Hong Kong lawyers march against China extradition plans

An interesting hoarding can be seen on Hong Kong's bustling Nathan Street exhibiting Standard Chartered Bank's initiative: One Belt. One Road. One Bank. It clearly highlights the power of China, the "one country, two systems" approach for the former British colony has come in for strong criticism in the past week with the world closely following events related to the Tiananmen Square massacre.

My tour guide in Macau who happened to be a local Portuguese told me quite candidly that the&nbsp;Chinese will shove&nbsp;you if you don't shove&nbsp;them back while he acknowledged that ever since China entered the scene the "real wages" had&nbsp;gone up in the country ensuring people were&nbsp;happy and satisfied, after all "quality of life matters", he said.

The "invisible hand" of China is very much on display in Hong Kong and Macau. Although Hong Kong has been accorded "special administrative region" status but clearly all is not well in the island.

In Macau streets, the citizens feel they have 36 casinos to sustain themselves rolling out trillions of dollars(mostly Chinese who drop in from the mainland to drown their&nbsp;yuan, those who win convert it&nbsp;into gold). Indians might be great gold hoarders, Chinese are the world biggest gold investors.

The apparent anti-China feeling was reflected on June 4th on the streets in&nbsp;Hong Kong where&nbsp;over 180,000 people turned out at Victoria Park to remember those who fell lighting the flame of democracy at Tiananmen in 1989. The authorities, however, said 37,000 people had turned up, but since this was the 30th anniversary of the massacre, locals turned up in record numbers.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-holds-sombre-tiananmen-vigil-as-beijing-goes-into-lockdown-224464/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Interestingly, China does not recognise the "Tiananmen Square massacre", the Chinese Communist Party has rephrased it as "political turmoil" since the 1990s and it finds no mention in China's history books.

In fact, the new generation Chinese, young, tech-savvy and ultra&nbsp;rich do not have any idea of the events surrounding the June 4th massacre in which 1,000 unarmed and hapless students were slaughtered by the Chinese Army.

China has clearly used its "homegrown internet orbit" to its advantage blocking out any reference to Tiananmen. The Chinese leadership is quite happy to project a rich, defiant and strong country, a facade which has been accepted by the masses.

However, Hong Kong hasn't forgotten although people on the street clearly feel "one country, two system" is under threat with China intent on passing the extradition law which would allow authorities to send a Hong Kong resident to another part of China for crimes committed at home, naturally it would be mainly "freedom" which would be under attack the locals fear.

Despite the public outrage and large scale criticism by US and the UN, India has kept mum over the incident surrounding the massacre which started on the night of June 3rd, 1989, perhaps a stand against China on human rights will be good to keep Rising China on the backfoot because the Xi regime is clearly itchy about the historical blunder and has batted on the backfoot on the issue.

Even as the world reflects on the "Tank Man" and "Tiananmen Mothers" who lost their children, Indians should feel proud of their&nbsp;democracy because a Tiananmen-style massacre is inconceivable in India.

However, China has stood firm and failed to even acknowledge that it was pro-democracy movement when the leadership fell back into "cultural revolution" tactics failing their own citizens many of whom were teenagers.

The dragon should not be allowed to go scot-free because the consequences could be even more disastrous for the repressed, minorities and downtrodden everywhere.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

An interesting hoarding can be seen on Hong Kong's bustling Nathan Street exhibiting Standard Chartered Bank's initiative: One Belt. One Road. One Bank. It clearly highlights the power of China, the "one country, two systems" approach for the former British colony has come in for strong criticism in the past week with the world closely following events related to the Tiananmen Square massacre.

An interesting hoarding can be seen on Hong Kong's bustling Nathan Street exhibiting Standard Chartered Bank's initiative: One Belt. One Road. One Bank. It clearly highlights the power of China, the "one country, two systems" approach for the former British colony has come in for strong criticism in the past week with the world closely following events related to the Tiananmen Square massacre. My tour guide in Macau who happened to be a local Portuguese told me quite candidly that the Chinese will shove you if you don't shove them back while he acknowledged that ever since China entered the scene the "real wages" had gone up in the country ensuring people were happy and satisfied, after all "quality of life matters", he said. The "invisible hand" of China is very much on display in Hong Kong and Macau. Although Hong Kong has been accorded "special administrative region" status but clearly all is not well in the island. In Macau streets, the citizens feel they have 36 casinos to sustain themselves rolling out trillions of dollars(mostly Chinese who drop in from the mainland to drown their yuan, those who win convert it into gold). Indians might be great gold hoarders, Chinese are the world biggest gold investors. The apparent anti-China feeling was reflected on June 4th on the streets in Hong Kong where over 180,000 people turned out at Victoria Park to remember those who fell lighting the flame of democracy at Tiananmen in 1989. The authorities, however, said 37,000 people had turned up, but since this was the 30th anniversary of the massacre, locals turned up in record numbers. Interestingly, China does not recognise the "Tiananmen Square massacre", the Chinese Communist Party has rephrased it as "political turmoil" since the 1990s and it finds no mention in China's history books. In fact, the new generation Chinese, young, tech-savvy and ultra rich do not have any idea of the events surrounding the June 4th massacre in which 1,000 unarmed and hapless students were slaughtered by the Chinese Army. China has clearly used its "homegrown internet orbit" to its advantage blocking out any reference to Tiananmen. The Chinese leadership is quite happy to project a rich, defiant and strong country, a facade which has been accepted by the masses. However, Hong Kong hasn't forgotten although people on the street clearly feel "one country, two system" is under threat with China intent on passing the extradition law which would allow authorities to send a Hong Kong resident to another part of China for crimes committed at home, naturally it would be mainly "freedom" which would be under attack the locals fear. Despite the public outrage and large scale criticism by US and the UN, India has kept mum over the incident surrounding the massacre which started on the night of June 3rd, 1989, perhaps a stand against China on human rights will be good to keep Rising China on the backfoot because the Xi regime is clearly itchy about the historical blunder and has batted on the backfoot on the issue. Even as the world reflects on the "Tank Man" and "Tiananmen Mothers" who lost their children, Indians should feel proud of their democracy because a Tiananmen-style massacre is inconceivable in India. However, China has stood firm and failed to even acknowledge that it was pro-democracy movement when the leadership fell back into "cultural revolution" tactics failing their own citizens many of whom were teenagers. The dragon should not be allowed to go scot-free because the consequences could be even more disastrous for the repressed, minorities and downtrodden everywhere. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

In China-controlled Hong Kong, freedom is the biggest casualty

Tens of thousands of people gather every year in Hong Kong's Victoria Park to attend a vigil marking the anniversary of China's June 4th crackdown on pro-democracy protests in and around Beijing's Tiananmen Square.

Hong Kong millennial fights to vindicate June 4th democracy crackdown

Alibaba is considering raising as much as $20 billion through a listing in Hong Kong, people familiar with the matter told Reuters, lining up a second blockbuster deal following its 2014 record $25 billion floats in New York.

The deal, the biggest follow-on share sale in seven years globally, would give Alibaba a war chest to keep investing in technology - a priority for China as growth flags and as the world's second-largest economy faces a mounting trade spat with the United States.

The e-commerce giant is working with financial advisers on the offering and is aiming to file an application confidentially in Hong Kong as early as the second half of 2019, three people said on condition of anonymity as the plans are not public yet.

They cautioned that many details were not clear, including the final planned size. One person with direct knowledge said it was more likely to be between $10 billion and $15 billion.

At $20 billion, Alibaba's deal would be the sixth-biggest follow-on share sale ever, Refinitiv data shows, ranking behind NTT's 1987 $36.8 billion sale, crisis-era offerings of $24.4 billion and $22.5 billion from the Royal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds Banking Group, as well as the $20.7 billion raised by US&nbsp;insurer AIG in 2012.

A spokesman for Alibaba declined to comment. SoftBank Group, Alibaba's largest investor, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Japanese tech investor has a 28.8% stake, worth $115.7 billion, in Alibaba after it sold a small part of its original holding via derivatives to fund its acquisition of chip designer ARM in a transaction that completes next month.

SoftBank founder and CEO Masayoshi Son is a close friend of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jack-mas-669-advice-to-alibaba-employees-have-sex-six-times-in-six-days-218815">Alibaba founder Jack Ma.</a> Bloomberg was the first to report the plan for a Hong Kong listing.

ADDED LIQUIDITY

Since its US listing, Alibaba has nearly doubled in size to become the largest-listed Chinese company with a market value of more than $400 billion.

A Hong Kong listing would give mainland investors their first direct access to one of China's biggest success stories, via the stock connect trading link between Hong Kong, Shanghai and Shenzhen.

It would also give the company an extra pocket of liquidity and potentially a better valuation if the household name became a favourite among retail investors in Hong Kong.

A Hong Kong-based analyst said while Alibaba is not in need of cash, the listing could help it improve its access to loans from Asian banks. "It means closer access to Chinese investors, and maybe Chinese investors are more bullish than the global investors in Alibaba," the analyst added.

Rival Tencent, which is listed in Hong Kong, is trading at 26 times its expected earnings compared with Alibaba's 22 times in New York, according to Refinitiv data.

A Hong Kong listing for Alibaba would come as its 54-year-old founder prepares to step down as chairman in September, handing over the mantle to CEO Daniel Zhang.

The company is also expanding into new sectors including cloud computing division and Hema, its chain of brick-and-mortar supermarkets as growth in its core e-commerce business slows.

The listing would provide Alibaba with additional capital to fund its new and expensive initiatives, said James Hull, founder of Hull capital and co-host of the China Tech investor podcast.

"Alibaba has strong and growing free cash flow, but they're also pursuing cash-hungry new initiatives," he added.

HOMECOMING

An Alibaba float would be seen in Hong Kong as a victory after the city lost the tech giant's initial public offering to New York because it then rules precluded it accepting Alibaba's governance structure, where a self-selecting group of senior managers control the majority of board appointments.

Hong Kong amended its rules last year to make it easier for "innovative companies" listed in New York or London to carry out a secondary listing in Hong Kong, as part of a broader shakeup of the city's listing regime.

The new rules allow already-listed companies based in greater China, whose original float was before Dec. 15, 2017, to list in the city even if their current weighted voting rights structures contravene Hong Kong's rules for primary listings.

Such companies can also apply confidentially for a listing, as Alibaba is expected to do.

Early last year, when Hong Kong was preparing to allow dual-class share listings, Alibaba founder Jack Ma had said that the company would "seriously consider" a listing on its exchange.

So far, no company has used the new secondary listing rules to raise funds in Hong Kong.

A spokesman for HKEX declined to comment on news of Alibaba's listing plans in Hong Kong.&nbsp;

Alibaba is considering raising as much as $20 billion through a listing in Hong Kong, people familiar with the matter told Reuters, lining up a second blockbuster deal following its 2014 record $25 billion floats in New York.

Alibaba is considering raising as much as $20 billion through a listing in Hong Kong, people familiar with the matter told Reuters, lining up a second blockbuster deal following its 2014 record $25 billion floats in New York. The deal, the biggest follow-on share sale in seven years globally, would give Alibaba a war chest to keep investing in technology - a priority for China as growth flags and as the world's second-largest economy faces a mounting trade spat with the United States. The e-commerce giant is working with financial advisers on the offering and is aiming to file an application confidentially in Hong Kong as early as the second half of 2019, three people said on condition of anonymity as the plans are not public yet. They cautioned that many details were not clear, including the final planned size. One person with direct knowledge said it was more likely to be between $10 billion and $15 billion. At $20 billion, Alibaba's deal would be the sixth-biggest follow-on share sale ever, Refinitiv data shows, ranking behind NTT's 1987 $36.8 billion sale, crisis-era offerings of $24.4 billion and $22.5 billion from the Royal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds Banking Group, as well as the $20.7 billion raised by US insurer AIG in 2012. A spokesman for Alibaba declined to comment. SoftBank Group, Alibaba's largest investor, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Japanese tech investor has a 28.8% stake, worth $115.7 billion, in Alibaba after it sold a small part of its original holding via derivatives to fund its acquisition of chip designer ARM in a transaction that completes next month. SoftBank founder and CEO Masayoshi Son is a close friend of Alibaba founder Jack Ma. Bloomberg was the first to report the plan for a Hong Kong listing. ADDED LIQUIDITY Since its US listing, Alibaba has nearly doubled in size to become the largest-listed Chinese company with a market value of more than $400 billion. A Hong Kong listing would give mainland investors their first direct access to one of China's biggest success stories, via the stock connect trading link between Hong Kong, Shanghai and Shenzhen. It would also give the company an extra pocket of liquidity and potentially a better valuation if the household name became a favourite among retail investors in Hong Kong. A Hong Kong-based analyst said while Alibaba is not in need of cash, the listing could help it improve its access to loans from Asian banks. "It means closer access to Chinese investors, and maybe Chinese investors are more bullish than the global investors in Alibaba," the analyst added. Rival Tencent, which is listed in Hong Kong, is trading at 26 times its expected earnings compared with Alibaba's 22 times in New York, according to Refinitiv data. A Hong Kong listing for Alibaba would come as its 54-year-old founder prepares to step down as chairman in September, handing over the mantle to CEO Daniel Zhang. The company is also expanding into new sectors including cloud computing division and Hema, its chain of brick-and-mortar supermarkets as growth in its core e-commerce business slows. The listing would provide Alibaba with additional capital to fund its new and expensive initiatives, said James Hull, founder of Hull capital and co-host of the China Tech investor podcast. "Alibaba has strong and growing free cash flow, but they're also pursuing cash-hungry new initiatives," he added. HOMECOMING An Alibaba float would be seen in Hong Kong as a victory after the city lost the tech giant's initial public offering to New York because it then rules precluded it accepting Alibaba's governance structure, where a self-selecting group of senior managers control the majority of board appointments. Hong Kong amended its rules last year to make it easier for "innovative companies" listed in New York or London to carry out a secondary listing in Hong Kong, as part of a broader shakeup of the city's listing regime. The new rules allow already-listed companies based in greater China, whose original float was before Dec. 15, 2017, to list in the city even if their current weighted voting rights structures contravene Hong Kong's rules for primary listings. Such companies can also apply confidentially for a listing, as Alibaba is expected to do. Early last year, when Hong Kong was preparing to allow dual-class share listings, Alibaba founder Jack Ma had said that the company would "seriously consider" a listing on its exchange. So far, no company has used the new secondary listing rules to raise funds in Hong Kong. A spokesman for HKEX declined to comment on news of Alibaba's listing plans in Hong Kong.

Alibaba plans $20 billion in Hong Kong listing, biggest follow-on sale in seven years

The<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-adopts-powers-to-respond-to-cyberattacks-219411"> European Union </a>Office in Chinese-ruled Hong Kong issued a formal diplomatic "demarche" protest note to Hong Kong`s leader on Friday over a proposed extradition law that could see individuals sent back to mainland China for trial.

The proposed legislation has stoked mass protests in the former British colony, which was promised a high degree of autonomy, including an independent judiciary, under a "one country, two systems" formula when it returned to China in 1997.

Critics, including foreign governments, legal and business groups, have expressed fears the law could erode Hong Kong`s rule of law and leave individuals, including foreign nationals passing through the city, vulnerable to being sent back for an unfair trial on the mainland.

The EU Office in Hong Kong and Macau said in a brief statement in response to press inquiries that it had, together with diplomatic representatives from its member states, met with Hong Kong`s leader Carrie Lam to "carry out a demarche reiterating their concerns regarding the government`s proposed amendments to Hong Kong`s Fugitive Offenders Ordinance".

The 28-member European Union had already come out in recent months to express concern over the extradition bill that Hong Kong authorities say they want to try to get passed in the city`s legislature before the summer recess.

This latest move represents a hardening of the EU position, just days after Lam reiterated that she wouldn`t scrap the bill.&nbsp;

The head of the EU office, Carmen Cano, wasn`t immediately available for comment. There was no immediate comment from Lam`s office.

The European Union Office in Chinese-ruled Hong Kong issued a formal diplomatic "demarche" protest note to Hong Kong`s leader on Friday over a proposed extradition law that could see individuals sent back to mainland China for trial.

The European Union Office in Chinese-ruled Hong Kong issued a formal diplomatic "demarche" protest note to Hong Kong`s leader on Friday over a proposed extradition law that could see individuals sent back to mainland China for trial. The proposed legislation has stoked mass protests in the former British colony, which was promised a high degree of autonomy, including an independent judiciary, under a "one country, two systems" formula when it returned to China in 1997. Critics, including foreign governments, legal and business groups, have expressed fears the law could erode Hong Kong`s rule of law and leave individuals, including foreign nationals passing through the city, vulnerable to being sent back for an unfair trial on the mainland. The EU Office in Hong Kong and Macau said in a brief statement in response to press inquiries that it had, together with diplomatic representatives from its member states, met with Hong Kong`s leader Carrie Lam to "carry out a demarche reiterating their concerns regarding the government`s proposed amendments to Hong Kong`s Fugitive Offenders Ordinance". The 28-member European Union had already come out in recent months to express concern over the extradition bill that Hong Kong authorities say they want to try to get passed in the city`s legislature before the summer recess. This latest move represents a hardening of the EU position, just days after Lam reiterated that she wouldn`t scrap the bill. The head of the EU office, Carmen Cano, wasn`t immediately available for comment. There was no immediate comment from Lam`s office.

EU lodges formal diplomatic note against contentious Hong Kong extradition bill

This segment offers you global round-up of top stories of 13 May 2019.

Global Round-up: Watch major global headlines of the day , 13 May 2019

Hong Kong locals scaled a bun-laden tower to collect the traditional desserts on Sunday (May 12) as part of celebrations to mark the end of the Cheung Chau bun festival.

Hong Kong's Cheung Chau Bun Festival ends with vibrant celebrations

A brawl broke out in Hong Kong's Legislative Council on Saturday as pro-democracy lawmakers and those loyal to Beijing discussed a extradition law that would extend Beijing's powers over the financial hub.

Brawl breaks out in Hong Kong's legislative council, lawmaker wheeled away on stretcher

China on Monday lashed out at the United States for voicing alarm over the jailing of leaders of Hong Kong's democracy movement, calling Washington's comments a "gross interference".&nbsp;

Four prominent activists were last week jailed for their role in the 2014 Umbrella Movement protests, which paralysed Hong Kong's central business district for months and infuriated Beijing with its show of anger over the city's leadership and direction.

The US State Department on Friday said it was "disappointed" by the jailing and called on the city to respect residents' rights to freedom of speech and peaceful assembly.&nbsp;

"We expressed strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition to these comments," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said at a regular press briefing.

"China urges the US to respect China's sovereignty, respect the rule of law in Hong Kong, respect the judicial independence that the US claims is important, and stop interfering in Hong Kong's internal affairs in any form," Geng said.

"It is a gross interference in China's internal affairs and the internal affairs of the Hong Kong SAR (special administrative region)."

The United States last week also voiced concern over Hong Kong's plans for an extradition treaty with mainland China, under which residents of the international financial hub could become entangled in the communist nation's opaque courts.

Geng defended the policy, calling it necessary to avoid the city turning into a "sanctuary" for fugitives.&nbsp;

Hong Kong enjoys rights unseen in mainland China, but activists have warned of a steady erosion of freedoms.

China on Monday lashed out at the United States for voicing alarm over the jailing of leaders of Hong Kong's democracy movement, calling Washington's comments a "gross interference".

China on Monday lashed out at the United States for voicing alarm over the jailing of leaders of Hong Kong's democracy movement, calling Washington's comments a "gross interference". Four prominent activists were last week jailed for their role in the 2014 Umbrella Movement protests, which paralysed Hong Kong's central business district for months and infuriated Beijing with its show of anger over the city's leadership and direction. The US State Department on Friday said it was "disappointed" by the jailing and called on the city to respect residents' rights to freedom of speech and peaceful assembly. "We expressed strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition to these comments," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said at a regular press briefing. "China urges the US to respect China's sovereignty, respect the rule of law in Hong Kong, respect the judicial independence that the US claims is important, and stop interfering in Hong Kong's internal affairs in any form," Geng said. "It is a gross interference in China's internal affairs and the internal affairs of the Hong Kong SAR (special administrative region)." The United States last week also voiced concern over Hong Kong's plans for an extradition treaty with mainland China, under which residents of the international financial hub could become entangled in the communist nation's opaque courts. Geng defended the policy, calling it necessary to avoid the city turning into a "sanctuary" for fugitives. Hong Kong enjoys rights unseen in mainland China, but activists have warned of a steady erosion of freedoms.

US comments on Hong Kong 'gross interference': China

Thousands marched on Hong Kong's legislative council to protest against proposed extradition rules that would allow people to be sent to mainland China for trial. Watch this video to know more.

Thousands march to Hong Kong Parliament

Four prominent leaders of Hong Kong's democracy movement were jailed on Wednesday for their role in organising mass protests in 2014 that paralysed the city for months and infuriated Beijing.

The prison terms are the latest hammer blow to the city's beleaguered democracy movement which has seen key figures jailed or banned from standing as legislators since their demonstrations shook the city but failed to win any concessions.

Nine activists were all convicted earlier in April of at least one charge in a prosecution that deployed rarely used colonial-era public nuisance laws over their participation in the Umbrella Movement protests, which called for free elections to appoint the city's leader.

Their trial renewed alarm over shrinking freedoms under an assertive China which has rejected demands by Hong Kongers for a greater say in how the financial hub is run.

Two key leaders of the mass protests -- sociology professor Chan Kin-man, 60, and law professor Benny Tai, 54 -- received the longest sentences of 16 months in jail, sparking tears in court and angry chants from hundreds of supporters gathered outside.

Two other leaders -- activist Raphael Wong and lawmaker Shiu Ka-chun -- received eight months while the rest either had their jail terms suspended or were given a community service order.&nbsp;

One defendant, lawmaker Tanya Chan, had her sentencing adjourned because she needs surgery for a brain tumour.

The jail terms are the steepest yet for anyone involved in the 79-day protest which vividly illustrated the huge anger -- particularly among Hong Kong's youth -- over the city's leadership and direction.

As Wong was led away by guards he proclaimed: "Our determination to fight for democracy will not change."

Tai and Chan founded a civil disobedience campaign known as "Occupy Central" in 2013 alongside 75-year-old Baptist minister Chu Yiu-ming, one of the defendants to have his jail term suspended.

Their original idea of taking to the streets to demand a fairer system and the right to directly elect Hong Kong's leader was a precursor to the student-led Umbrella Movement a year later that brought parts of the city to a standstill.

'Chilling warning'

Authorities in Hong Kong and the mainland have defended the prosecutions as a necessary measure to punish the leaders of a direct action movement that took over key intersections of the city for many weeks.

But activists and rights groups have argued that the use of the vaguely worded public nuisance laws -- and wielding the steeper common law punishment -- is an insidious blow to free speech and a new tactic from prosecutors.

"The long sentences sends a chilling warning to all that there will be serious consequences for advocating for democracy," said Maya Wang, Human Rights Watch's senior researcher on China.

But city leader Carrie Lam remained unmoved by such criticisms. Asked by reporters on Wednesday whether the jailings would damage Hong Kong's free speech reputation, she replied: "I can't see any impact."

There were emotional scenes outside the courthouse with the defendants met by a noisy crowd of supporters shouting "Add Oil!", a popular Cantonese phrase to signal encouragement.&nbsp;

Others sang "We Shall Overcome", the gospel song that became an anthem of the civil rights movement in the United States.

Speaking after the sentencing, Tanya Chan told the crowds: "I hope Hong Kongers will not lose hope, will not be afraid, will not have regrets or back down now".

Many supporters were holding umbrellas, an emblem of the 2014 protests after they were used by young demonstrators to defend themselves against police batons, tear gas canisters and pepper spray.

Joseph Lo, 59, was wearing a yellow T-shirt with the phrase "I was not incited" -- a reference to the charges laid against the protest leaders.

"We were not incited by these nine people," he told AFP, adding he hit the streets in 2014 because of the refusal to grant Hong Kongers universal suffrage and the police's decision to fire tear gas at protesters.

While the financial hub enjoys rights unseen on the Chinese mainland under a 50-year handover agreement between Britain and China, there are fears those liberties are being eroded as Beijing flexes its muscles and stamps down on dissent.&nbsp;

Hong Kong's leader is elected by a group of just 1,200 largely pro-Beijing appointees, in a city of seven million.&nbsp;

Judge Johnny Chan ruled that the 2014 protests were not protected by Hong Kong's free speech laws because the demonstrations impinged on the rights of others.

During sentencing, Chan said the defendants had expressed no regret for the "inconvenience and suffering caused to members of the public". He added that an apology was "rightly deserved... but never received" from the protest leaders.

Four prominent leaders of Hong Kong's democracy movement were jailed on Wednesday for their role in organising mass protests in 2014 that paralysed the city for months and infuriated Beijing.

Four prominent leaders of Hong Kong's democracy movement were jailed on Wednesday for their role in organising mass protests in 2014 that paralysed the city for months and infuriated Beijing. The prison terms are the latest hammer blow to the city's beleaguered democracy movement which has seen key figures jailed or banned from standing as legislators since their demonstrations shook the city but failed to win any concessions. Nine activists were all convicted earlier in April of at least one charge in a prosecution that deployed rarely used colonial-era public nuisance laws over their participation in the Umbrella Movement protests, which called for free elections to appoint the city's leader. Their trial renewed alarm over shrinking freedoms under an assertive China which has rejected demands by Hong Kongers for a greater say in how the financial hub is run. Two key leaders of the mass protests -- sociology professor Chan Kin-man, 60, and law professor Benny Tai, 54 -- received the longest sentences of 16 months in jail, sparking tears in court and angry chants from hundreds of supporters gathered outside. Two other leaders -- activist Raphael Wong and lawmaker Shiu Ka-chun -- received eight months while the rest either had their jail terms suspended or were given a community service order. One defendant, lawmaker Tanya Chan, had her sentencing adjourned because she needs surgery for a brain tumour. The jail terms are the steepest yet for anyone involved in the 79-day protest which vividly illustrated the huge anger -- particularly among Hong Kong's youth -- over the city's leadership and direction. As Wong was led away by guards he proclaimed: "Our determination to fight for democracy will not change." Tai and Chan founded a civil disobedience campaign known as "Occupy Central" in 2013 alongside 75-year-old Baptist minister Chu Yiu-ming, one of the defendants to have his jail term suspended. Their original idea of taking to the streets to demand a fairer system and the right to directly elect Hong Kong's leader was a precursor to the student-led Umbrella Movement a year later that brought parts of the city to a standstill. 'Chilling warning' Authorities in Hong Kong and the mainland have defended the prosecutions as a necessary measure to punish the leaders of a direct action movement that took over key intersections of the city for many weeks. But activists and rights groups have argued that the use of the vaguely worded public nuisance laws -- and wielding the steeper common law punishment -- is an insidious blow to free speech and a new tactic from prosecutors. "The long sentences sends a chilling warning to all that there will be serious consequences for advocating for democracy," said Maya Wang, Human Rights Watch's senior researcher on China. But city leader Carrie Lam remained unmoved by such criticisms. Asked by reporters on Wednesday whether the jailings would damage Hong Kong's free speech reputation, she replied: "I can't see any impact." There were emotional scenes outside the courthouse with the defendants met by a noisy crowd of supporters shouting "Add Oil!", a popular Cantonese phrase to signal encouragement. Others sang "We Shall Overcome", the gospel song that became an anthem of the civil rights movement in the United States. Speaking after the sentencing, Tanya Chan told the crowds: "I hope Hong Kongers will not lose hope, will not be afraid, will not have regrets or back down now". Many supporters were holding umbrellas, an emblem of the 2014 protests after they were used by young demonstrators to defend themselves against police batons, tear gas canisters and pepper spray. Joseph Lo, 59, was wearing a yellow T-shirt with the phrase "I was not incited" -- a reference to the charges laid against the protest leaders. "We were not incited by these nine people," he told AFP, adding he hit the streets in 2014 because of the refusal to grant Hong Kongers universal suffrage and the police's decision to fire tear gas at protesters. While the financial hub enjoys rights unseen on the Chinese mainland under a 50-year handover agreement between Britain and China, there are fears those liberties are being eroded as Beijing flexes its muscles and stamps down on dissent. Hong Kong's leader is elected by a group of just 1,200 largely pro-Beijing appointees, in a city of seven million. Judge Johnny Chan ruled that the 2014 protests were not protected by Hong Kong's free speech laws because the demonstrations impinged on the rights of others. During sentencing, Chan said the defendants had expressed no regret for the "inconvenience and suffering caused to members of the public". He added that an apology was "rightly deserved... but never received" from the protest leaders.

Hong Kong democracy leaders jailed over Umbrella Movement protests

Asian markets fluctuated Wednesday following a record-breaking close on Wall Street that was fuelled by strong earnings from US big-hitters.

The S&amp;P 500 and Nasdaq scaled all-time highs while the Dow came close after a string of better-than-forecast results from the likes of Coca-Cola, Twitter and Lockheed Martin added to a raft of other recent reports that suggest the economy is in rude health.

Markets welcomed "a really great string of earnings reports, most of them outpacing expectations, as well as some pretty good commentary on future estimates from CEOs", Jim Paulsen, chief investment strategist at Leuthold Weeden, told Bloomberg News.

"There’s quite a bit of positivity carrying this to new highs."

However, while Asian dealers were generally upbeat they were unable to use the Wall Street performance to kick on in early trade, with major indexes shifting in and out of positive territory through the morning.

Hong Kong and Shanghai were each down 0.2 per cent in the morning while Tokyo headed into the break flat and Seoul slipped 0.7 per cent.

However, Sydney rose one per cent as a drop in Australian inflation raised the chances of an interest rate cut by the country's central bank. The reading sent the Australian dollar plunging one per cent.

Singapore, Taipei and Manila each rose 0.2 per cent, Wellington added 0.7 per cent while Jakarta inched up slightly.

Oil prices retreat after rally&nbsp;

US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin travel to Beijing next week for another round of high-level talks aimed at resolving their painful tariffs war.

The White House issued a statement saying the latest negotiations "will cover trade issues including intellectual property, forced technology transfer, non-tariff barriers, agriculture, services, purchases and enforcement", adding that Chinese officials will visit Washington on May 8.

Expectations the talks will eventually end with an agreement between the economic superpowers has helped fire a rally across world markets this year, with the initial row having been the catalyst for a sharp sell-off at the end of 2018.

On oil markets both main contracts were in retreat a day after hitting six-month highs on the back of news that Washington would end a waiver for several countries from US sanctions on Iran.

Prices had already been surging thanks to hopes for the China-US talks and, OPEC and Russia's output cap, and unrest in Libya and Venezuela.

There is speculation OPEC kingpin Saudi Arabia could step in to fill the void left in the market by the removal of Iranian crude, which would temper prices.

But SPI Asset Management's Stephen Innes said Riyadh could balk at such a move, having opened the taps when the US unveiled sanctions six months ago only to be "hoodwinked" by the waivers.

"If the US is fully committed to their hawkish Iranian pledge... prices will reprice higher as Saudi Arabia appear tentative about increasing supplies, while it is unlikely (US) shale can fill the void quick enough," Innes said in a note.

"So to what degree oil markets tighten, and how high oil price goes, will now mostly be dependent on the supply response from OPEC+ group."

Asian markets fluctuated Wednesday following a record-breaking close on Wall Street that was fuelled by strong earnings from US big-hitters. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq scaled all-time highs while the Dow came close after a string of better-than-forecast results from the likes of Coca-Cola, Twitter and Lockheed Martin added to a raft of other recent reports that suggest the economy is in rude health.

Asian markets fluctuated Wednesday following a record-breaking close on Wall Street that was fuelled by strong earnings from US big-hitters. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq scaled all-time highs while the Dow came close after a string of better-than-forecast results from the likes of Coca-Cola, Twitter and Lockheed Martin added to a raft of other recent reports that suggest the economy is in rude health. Markets welcomed "a really great string of earnings reports, most of them outpacing expectations, as well as some pretty good commentary on future estimates from CEOs", Jim Paulsen, chief investment strategist at Leuthold Weeden, told Bloomberg News. "There’s quite a bit of positivity carrying this to new highs." However, while Asian dealers were generally upbeat they were unable to use the Wall Street performance to kick on in early trade, with major indexes shifting in and out of positive territory through the morning. Hong Kong and Shanghai were each down 0.2 per cent in the morning while Tokyo headed into the break flat and Seoul slipped 0.7 per cent. However, Sydney rose one per cent as a drop in Australian inflation raised the chances of an interest rate cut by the country's central bank. The reading sent the Australian dollar plunging one per cent. Singapore, Taipei and Manila each rose 0.2 per cent, Wellington added 0.7 per cent while Jakarta inched up slightly. Oil prices retreat after rally US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin travel to Beijing next week for another round of high-level talks aimed at resolving their painful tariffs war. The White House issued a statement saying the latest negotiations "will cover trade issues including intellectual property, forced technology transfer, non-tariff barriers, agriculture, services, purchases and enforcement", adding that Chinese officials will visit Washington on May 8. Expectations the talks will eventually end with an agreement between the economic superpowers has helped fire a rally across world markets this year, with the initial row having been the catalyst for a sharp sell-off at the end of 2018. On oil markets both main contracts were in retreat a day after hitting six-month highs on the back of news that Washington would end a waiver for several countries from US sanctions on Iran. Prices had already been surging thanks to hopes for the China-US talks and, OPEC and Russia's output cap, and unrest in Libya and Venezuela. There is speculation OPEC kingpin Saudi Arabia could step in to fill the void left in the market by the removal of Iranian crude, which would temper prices. But SPI Asset Management's Stephen Innes said Riyadh could balk at such a move, having opened the taps when the US unveiled sanctions six months ago only to be "hoodwinked" by the waivers. "If the US is fully committed to their hawkish Iranian pledge... prices will reprice higher as Saudi Arabia appear tentative about increasing supplies, while it is unlikely (US) shale can fill the void quick enough," Innes said in a note. "So to what degree oil markets tighten, and how high oil price goes, will now mostly be dependent on the supply response from OPEC+ group."

Asian markets fluctuate as dealers brush off Wall Street record

A Hong Kong court on Tuesday found three leaders of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-moves-to-make-disrespecting-chinese-national-anthem-a-crime-192238">2014 pro-democracy "Occupy" civil</a> disobedience movement guilty of conspiracy to commit public nuisance for their role in mass protests that brought parts of the Chinese-ruled city to a standstill.

The movement was popularly called the "Umbrella movement".

Benny Tai, Chan Kin-man and retired pastor Chu Yiu-ming were all found guilty following a trial that comes as the financial centre's civil liberties come under mounting pressure.

Scores of supporters clapped in support of the nine defendants including a law professor, two lawmakers and former student activists, after the judge delivered his verdict following a trial that critics say highlights shrinking political freedoms in the former British colony.

Three of the defendants accused of playing a leading role in planning and mobilising supporters during the 79-day street occupations in 2014 - Benny Tai, Chan Kin-man, and retired pastor Chu Yiu-ming - were found guilty of conspiracy to commit public nuisance.

Tai and Chan were also found guilty of incitement to commit public nuisance. They appeared calm after the verdict was delivered, and Chan bowed to supporters clapping for them outside the court. The trio had pleaded not guilty to all charges, which each carry a maximum seven years jail.

Tai, speaking to Reuters before the verdict, said: "We will still continue our struggle for democracy,

"The reason that we committed civil disobedience is because we want justice for Hong Kong people."

In a summary of his judgement, Justice Johnny Chan noted that while the concept of civil disobedience is "recognised in Hong Kong", it wasn't a defence to a criminal charge.

"The offence of conspiracy to cause a public nuisance does not have the undesirable effect of curtailing or suppressing civil disobedience at its formation stage or suppressing human rights as the defendants contended," the summary read.

The six other defendants include pro-democracy legislators Tanya Chan and Shiu Ka-chun, two former student leaders Eason Chung and Tommy Cheung, activist Raphael Wong, and veteran democrat Lee Wing-tat, were also found guilty of at least one public nuisance charge.

No sentences were immediately given by the judge.

The nine defendants were accused of inciting and mobilising protesters during the pro-democracy demonstrations that blocked major roads in several parts of the global financial hub for 79 days in late 2014, in one of the boldest populist challenges against Beijing in decades.

The demonstrators were finally cleared away by police, having won no democratic concessions from the government.

Since the city returned from British to Chinese rule in 1997, critics say China has reneged on its commitment to maintain Hong Kong's high degree of autonomy and freedoms under a so-called "one country, two systems" arrangement.

In the more than four years since the Occupy protests, democracy activists, diplomats and business leaders have expressed grave concerns over what they say is Beijing's tightening grip on the city's freedoms.

A Hong Kong court on Tuesday found three leaders of the 2014 pro-democracy "Occupy" civil disobedience movement guilty of conspiracy to commit public nuisance for their role in mass protests that brought parts of the Chinese-ruled city to a standstill.

A Hong Kong court on Tuesday found three leaders of the 2014 pro-democracy "Occupy" civil disobedience movement guilty of conspiracy to commit public nuisance for their role in mass protests that brought parts of the Chinese-ruled city to a standstill. The movement was popularly called the "Umbrella movement". Benny Tai, Chan Kin-man and retired pastor Chu Yiu-ming were all found guilty following a trial that comes as the financial centre's civil liberties come under mounting pressure. Scores of supporters clapped in support of the nine defendants including a law professor, two lawmakers and former student activists, after the judge delivered his verdict following a trial that critics say highlights shrinking political freedoms in the former British colony. Three of the defendants accused of playing a leading role in planning and mobilising supporters during the 79-day street occupations in 2014 - Benny Tai, Chan Kin-man, and retired pastor Chu Yiu-ming - were found guilty of conspiracy to commit public nuisance. Tai and Chan were also found guilty of incitement to commit public nuisance. They appeared calm after the verdict was delivered, and Chan bowed to supporters clapping for them outside the court. The trio had pleaded not guilty to all charges, which each carry a maximum seven years jail. Tai, speaking to Reuters before the verdict, said: "We will still continue our struggle for democracy, "The reason that we committed civil disobedience is because we want justice for Hong Kong people." In a summary of his judgement, Justice Johnny Chan noted that while the concept of civil disobedience is "recognised in Hong Kong", it wasn't a defence to a criminal charge. "The offence of conspiracy to cause a public nuisance does not have the undesirable effect of curtailing or suppressing civil disobedience at its formation stage or suppressing human rights as the defendants contended," the summary read. The six other defendants include pro-democracy legislators Tanya Chan and Shiu Ka-chun, two former student leaders Eason Chung and Tommy Cheung, activist Raphael Wong, and veteran democrat Lee Wing-tat, were also found guilty of at least one public nuisance charge. No sentences were immediately given by the judge. The nine defendants were accused of inciting and mobilising protesters during the pro-democracy demonstrations that blocked major roads in several parts of the global financial hub for 79 days in late 2014, in one of the boldest populist challenges against Beijing in decades. The demonstrators were finally cleared away by police, having won no democratic concessions from the government. Since the city returned from British to Chinese rule in 1997, critics say China has reneged on its commitment to maintain Hong Kong's high degree of autonomy and freedoms under a so-called "one country, two systems" arrangement. In the more than four years since the Occupy protests, democracy activists, diplomats and business leaders have expressed grave concerns over what they say is Beijing's tightening grip on the city's freedoms.

Court finds three guilty in umbrella movement in China-controlled Hong Kong

Nine pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong have been found guilty of public nuisance charges for their role in a civil disobedience movement that called for free elections in the city.

Hong Kong Umbrella protesters found guilty of public nuisance

Hong Kong switched off its lights across the city for Earth Hour on Saturday.

Earth Hour, an event organised by conservation group WWF, is a global environmental movement that aims to raise awareness of global climate change.

This year's theme is was 'Reduce, Rethink, Change the Way We Live', and the organisers said the Hong Kong event aimed to put the spotlight on plastic waste, as well as the importance of sustainable living globally.

"Earth Hour is important to help remind people in Hong Kong and people throughout the world that we need to find a balance with this planet," said WWF Hong Kong Conservation Director David Olson. "It has finite resources, and we believe that there are things that people can do, that cities can do, to help us achieve a sustainable future."

Originally founded in Sydney in 2007, Earth Hour is now a global movement taking place in 188 countries and territories.

Hong Kong switched off its lights across the city for Earth Hour on Saturday. Earth Hour, an event organised by conservation group WWF, is a global environmental movement that aims to raise awareness of global climate change.

Hong Kong switched off its lights across the city for Earth Hour on Saturday. Earth Hour, an event organised by conservation group WWF, is a global environmental movement that aims to raise awareness of global climate change. This year's theme is was 'Reduce, Rethink, Change the Way We Live', and the organisers said the Hong Kong event aimed to put the spotlight on plastic waste, as well as the importance of sustainable living globally. "Earth Hour is important to help remind people in Hong Kong and people throughout the world that we need to find a balance with this planet," said WWF Hong Kong Conservation Director David Olson. "It has finite resources, and we believe that there are things that people can do, that cities can do, to help us achieve a sustainable future." Originally founded in Sydney in 2007, Earth Hour is now a global movement taking place in 188 countries and territories.

Hong Kong skyline goes dark for Earth Hour

The BSE benchmark Sensex recovered over 100 points Tuesday, led by strong buying by domestic institutional investors amid positive global cues.

The 30-share index was trading 124.21 points, or 0.35 per cent, at 35,622.65. Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty rose 38.90 points, or 0.37 per cent, to 10,679.85.

Top gainers in the Sensex pack include Bharti Airtel, Bajaj Finance, M&amp;M, PowerGrid, ICICI Bank, ONGC, L&amp;T, Bajaj Auto, Vedanta, Tata Steel, Axis Bank and Yes Bank, rising up to 1.45 per cent.

On the other hand, HUL, Tata Motors, Infosys, HDFC, TCS and IndusInd Bank were the losers, falling up to 0.76 per cent.

Investor sentiment was positive on strong buying by domestic institutional investors (DIIs), said traders.

On a net basis, DIIs were net buyers to the tune of Rs 2,336.74 crore, while foreign institutional investors sold shares worth a net of Rs 1,239.79 crore on Monday, provisional data available with BSE showed.

A firm trend in global equities on hopes of a resolution to the US-China trade conflict, as the next round of talks begin later in the day, too pushed domestic indices in the positive terrain, traders added.

Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 0.03 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.25 per cent higher, Kospi inched 0.01 per cent higher, and Japan's Nikkei gained 0.07 per cent in early trade.

On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average was closed on Monday for a public holiday.

The benchmark Brent crude futures slipped 0.57 per cent to $66.12 per barrel.

Meanwhile, the domestic currency derivatives markets are closed on account of Chhatrapati Shivaji Jayanti.

The BSE benchmark Sensex recovered over 100 points Tuesday, led by strong buying by domestic institutional investors amid positive global cues. The 30-share index was trading 124.

The BSE benchmark Sensex recovered over 100 points Tuesday, led by strong buying by domestic institutional investors amid positive global cues. The 30-share index was trading 124.21 points, or 0.35 per cent, at 35,622.65. Similarly, the 50-share NSE Nifty rose 38.90 points, or 0.37 per cent, to 10,679.85. Top gainers in the Sensex pack include Bharti Airtel, Bajaj Finance, M&M, PowerGrid, ICICI Bank, ONGC, L&T, Bajaj Auto, Vedanta, Tata Steel, Axis Bank and Yes Bank, rising up to 1.45 per cent. On the other hand, HUL, Tata Motors, Infosys, HDFC, TCS and IndusInd Bank were the losers, falling up to 0.76 per cent. Investor sentiment was positive on strong buying by domestic institutional investors (DIIs), said traders. On a net basis, DIIs were net buyers to the tune of Rs 2,336.74 crore, while foreign institutional investors sold shares worth a net of Rs 1,239.79 crore on Monday, provisional data available with BSE showed. A firm trend in global equities on hopes of a resolution to the US-China trade conflict, as the next round of talks begin later in the day, too pushed domestic indices in the positive terrain, traders added. Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 0.03 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.25 per cent higher, Kospi inched 0.01 per cent higher, and Japan's Nikkei gained 0.07 per cent in early trade. On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average was closed on Monday for a public holiday. The benchmark Brent crude futures slipped 0.57 per cent to $66.12 per barrel. Meanwhile, the domestic currency derivatives markets are closed on account of Chhatrapati Shivaji Jayanti.

Sensex rebounds over 100 points; Nifty nears 10,700

Plans by Hong Kong to allow extraditions to Taiwan, Macau and mainland China following a high-profile murder case could become a "Trojan horse" for Beijing to pursue critics, pro-democracy lawmakers warned Wednesday.

The financial hub's Security Bureau has proposed changing the law in the wake of the murder of Poon Hui-wing, a pregnant 20-year-old Hong Konger allegedly strangled by her boyfriend during Valentine's holiday in Taiwan a year ago.

Poon's body was found dumped on the outskirts of Taipei after her boyfriend Chan Tong-kai returned home to Hong Kong without her.

Chan is currently facing trial in Hong Kong for theft and money laundering linked to his alleged possession of Poon's bank card.&nbsp;

But there is currently no prospect of him being extradited to Taiwan where he is wanted for murder.&nbsp;

Despite being part of China since its 1997 handover, semi-autonomous Hong Kong still has no extradition agreement with Macau, Beijing or Taipei.

The city laws governing extraditions currently rule out returns to "other parts of the People's Republic of China". Like Beijing, Hong Kong views Taiwan as a part of the mainland, hobbling its ability to coordinate with Taiwanese police.

Chiu Chih-hung, a spokesman for Taipei's Shilin district prosecutors office, told AFP investigators had made multiple requests to Hong Kong police last year in connection with the murder case but received no response.&nbsp;

"We would welcome if the Hong Kong government could revise the relevant law to transfer the suspect to Taiwan to stand trial," he said.

In a briefing paper to the city's largely pro-Beijing legislature, which will debate the proposals on Friday, the Security Bureau said the case showed that current extradition laws "must be amended promptly to plug their loopholes and to protect public safety".

'Open Pandora's Box'

The bureau has proposed allowing extraditions on a "case-basis" and say prosecutions based on "race, religion, nationality or political opinions" would be refused.&nbsp;

But prominent pro-democracy lawmakers fear the move could still allow Beijing to tighten the noose on critics.

"We're terribly worried. This could prove a Trojan horse," lawmaker Claudia Mo told AFP.

"I know the Hong Kong government has implied that political cases will not be entertained, but we all know Beijing could always package ideological crimes in the form of economic offences."

China has a long history of charging critics with fraud and other crimes -- dissident artist Ai Weiwei was famously prosecuted for tax evasion.

Pro-democracy lawmaker Eddie Chu warned the proposal could "open Pandora's box".&nbsp;

"The Security Bureau's proposal has far-reaching consequences and must not be casually accepted," he wrote on Facebook.

Although the proposal has been backed by the city's largest pro-Beijing party, pro-democracy lawmakers say Hong Kong should pursue a separate extradition agreement with Taiwan that doesn't include the mainland.

Historically Hong Kong has balked at extraditing suspects to the mainland because of the opacity of China's criminal justice system and the death penalty.

The city was also rattled in recent years by the disappearance of several booksellers who resurfaced in China facing charges -- and the alleged rendition of billionaire businessman Xiao Jianhua in 2017.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Plans by Hong Kong to allow extraditions to Taiwan, Macau and mainland China following a high-profile murder case could become a "Trojan horse" for Beijing to pursue critics, pro-democracy lawmakers warned Wednesday.

Plans by Hong Kong to allow extraditions to Taiwan, Macau and mainland China following a high-profile murder case could become a "Trojan horse" for Beijing to pursue critics, pro-democracy lawmakers warned Wednesday. The financial hub's Security Bureau has proposed changing the law in the wake of the murder of Poon Hui-wing, a pregnant 20-year-old Hong Konger allegedly strangled by her boyfriend during Valentine's holiday in Taiwan a year ago. Poon's body was found dumped on the outskirts of Taipei after her boyfriend Chan Tong-kai returned home to Hong Kong without her. Chan is currently facing trial in Hong Kong for theft and money laundering linked to his alleged possession of Poon's bank card. But there is currently no prospect of him being extradited to Taiwan where he is wanted for murder. Despite being part of China since its 1997 handover, semi-autonomous Hong Kong still has no extradition agreement with Macau, Beijing or Taipei. The city laws governing extraditions currently rule out returns to "other parts of the People's Republic of China". Like Beijing, Hong Kong views Taiwan as a part of the mainland, hobbling its ability to coordinate with Taiwanese police. Chiu Chih-hung, a spokesman for Taipei's Shilin district prosecutors office, told AFP investigators had made multiple requests to Hong Kong police last year in connection with the murder case but received no response. "We would welcome if the Hong Kong government could revise the relevant law to transfer the suspect to Taiwan to stand trial," he said. In a briefing paper to the city's largely pro-Beijing legislature, which will debate the proposals on Friday, the Security Bureau said the case showed that current extradition laws "must be amended promptly to plug their loopholes and to protect public safety". 'Open Pandora's Box' The bureau has proposed allowing extraditions on a "case-basis" and say prosecutions based on "race, religion, nationality or political opinions" would be refused. But prominent pro-democracy lawmakers fear the move could still allow Beijing to tighten the noose on critics. "We're terribly worried. This could prove a Trojan horse," lawmaker Claudia Mo told AFP. "I know the Hong Kong government has implied that political cases will not be entertained, but we all know Beijing could always package ideological crimes in the form of economic offences." China has a long history of charging critics with fraud and other crimes -- dissident artist Ai Weiwei was famously prosecuted for tax evasion. Pro-democracy lawmaker Eddie Chu warned the proposal could "open Pandora's box". "The Security Bureau's proposal has far-reaching consequences and must not be casually accepted," he wrote on Facebook. Although the proposal has been backed by the city's largest pro-Beijing party, pro-democracy lawmakers say Hong Kong should pursue a separate extradition agreement with Taiwan that doesn't include the mainland. Historically Hong Kong has balked at extraditing suspects to the mainland because of the opacity of China's criminal justice system and the death penalty. The city was also rattled in recent years by the disappearance of several booksellers who resurfaced in China facing charges -- and the alleged rendition of billionaire businessman Xiao Jianhua in 2017.

Lawmakers warn Hong Kong's China extradition plans a 'Trojan horse'

Instagram 'em all: Must-snap locations testing Hong Kong's patience

In pics: Chinese communities around the world welcome Year of the Pig

Kim Jong-un and Roderigo Duterte look-alikes take Hong Kong by storm

Hong Kong on Wednesday presented a controversial bill to lawmakers that prescribe jail terms of up to three years for disrespecting the Chinese national anthem, a move critics say raises fresh fears over freedom of expression in the city.

Chinese authorities have strived to instil greater patriotism in the former British colony at a time of heightened tension between democracy activists and forces loyal to Beijing, with some in Hong Kong even advocating independence from China.

Besides imprisonment, the measure would fix a maximum fine of HK$50,000 ($6,370) for those who publicly and intentionally disrespect the anthem, the "March of the Volunteers".

It also extends to schoolchildren, including pupils of international schools, who would be legally required to learn the anthem.

"I think teachers would feel worried about this proposal, because if we allow this government to pass a law to instruct the teachers what to teach, well, this time it is for the national anthem, maybe next time it could be other things," said secondary school teacher Simon Hung, 36.

Small groups of pro-democracy and pro-Beijing protesters taunted each other outside the Legislative Council, shouting and chanting through loud hailers.

Waving the red Chinese flag, pro-Beijing demonstrators held up banners that read: "Safeguard national dignity" and "Support the national anthem law," while democracy activists held placards that said: "Unsung freedom."

Booing the anthem at soccer matches in Hong Kong has emerged as a form of political protest in the past few years, seized upon by young people keen to demonstrate their frustration at Beijing's perceived creeping influence.

The global financial hub returned to Chinese rule in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula that promises the city a high degree of autonomy, including freedom of expression.

The anthem proposal is expected to pass easily when it comes to a vote - probably before the summer - as the opposition does not have enough seats to block routine legislation.

Hong Kong has already outlawed the desecration of national flags and emblems, which can attract jail terms of three years.

Calls for outright independence are a red line for China's Communist Party leaders, who deem Hong Kong an inalienable part of the nation.

But many young people in Hong Kong have become increasingly angered by what they see as China's encroachment on the city's culture and autonomy, with some advocating "localism", or a Hong Kong identity, rather than a Chinese one.

"We have no sense of belonging to China at all," one football supporter told Reuters. "Even people I know who are born since 1997, they still think they are Hongkongers, but not Chinese."

In 2017, mainland China adopted a law banning disrespect for the anthem. A similar measure is being reviewed in Macau, a former Portuguese-run enclave that returned to Chinese rule in 1999.

Hong Kong on Wednesday presented a controversial bill to lawmakers that prescribe jail terms of up to three years for disrespecting the Chinese national anthem, a move critics say raises fresh fears over freedom of expression in the city.

Hong Kong on Wednesday presented a controversial bill to lawmakers that prescribe jail terms of up to three years for disrespecting the Chinese national anthem, a move critics say raises fresh fears over freedom of expression in the city. Chinese authorities have strived to instil greater patriotism in the former British colony at a time of heightened tension between democracy activists and forces loyal to Beijing, with some in Hong Kong even advocating independence from China. Besides imprisonment, the measure would fix a maximum fine of HK$50,000 ($6,370) for those who publicly and intentionally disrespect the anthem, the "March of the Volunteers". It also extends to schoolchildren, including pupils of international schools, who would be legally required to learn the anthem. "I think teachers would feel worried about this proposal, because if we allow this government to pass a law to instruct the teachers what to teach, well, this time it is for the national anthem, maybe next time it could be other things," said secondary school teacher Simon Hung, 36. Small groups of pro-democracy and pro-Beijing protesters taunted each other outside the Legislative Council, shouting and chanting through loud hailers. Waving the red Chinese flag, pro-Beijing demonstrators held up banners that read: "Safeguard national dignity" and "Support the national anthem law," while democracy activists held placards that said: "Unsung freedom." Booing the anthem at soccer matches in Hong Kong has emerged as a form of political protest in the past few years, seized upon by young people keen to demonstrate their frustration at Beijing's perceived creeping influence. The global financial hub returned to Chinese rule in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula that promises the city a high degree of autonomy, including freedom of expression. The anthem proposal is expected to pass easily when it comes to a vote - probably before the summer - as the opposition does not have enough seats to block routine legislation. Hong Kong has already outlawed the desecration of national flags and emblems, which can attract jail terms of three years. Calls for outright independence are a red line for China's Communist Party leaders, who deem Hong Kong an inalienable part of the nation. But many young people in Hong Kong have become increasingly angered by what they see as China's encroachment on the city's culture and autonomy, with some advocating "localism", or a Hong Kong identity, rather than a Chinese one. "We have no sense of belonging to China at all," one football supporter told Reuters. "Even people I know who are born since 1997, they still think they are Hongkongers, but not Chinese." In 2017, mainland China adopted a law banning disrespect for the anthem. A similar measure is being reviewed in Macau, a former Portuguese-run enclave that returned to Chinese rule in 1999.

Hong Kong moves to make disrespecting Chinese national anthem a crime

A medical emergency and a mechanical problem left passengers on a United Airlines flight stuck for about 16 hours on the frigid tarmac of a Canadian airport in the plane's barely heated interior, the CBC network reported.&nbsp;

United Flight 179 had taken off late Saturday from Newark, New Jersey en route to Hong Kong with about 250 passengers on board.

When a passenger suffered a medical problem the plane made an emergency landing at Goose Bay airport in Newfoundland and Labrador province, on Canada's east coast, the airline told CBC.

But after paramedics took him to hospital, the plane was unable to take off, reportedly because bitterly cold temperatures of -30 degrees Celsius (-22 degrees Fahrenheit) had caused a door to freeze.

With no customs officers on duty overnight, passengers were forced to stay on board, many shivering under the thin blankets handed out by flight attendants.

With food and water running short roughly 10 hours into the ordeal, officials finally arrived to deliver supplies from the Tim Hortons fast-food chain known in Canada for its coffee and doughnuts.

One of the passengers, Sonjay Dutt, reached by phone, said the plane was under-heated and that the arrival of the food and coffee was not enough to appease increasingly angry passengers.

A relief aircraft arrived in Goose Bay late Sunday morning. After the passengers were transferred to the plane by bus, it took off in mid-afternoon to take them back to Newark, where they originally came from the day before, CBC said.

Much of eastern Canada, as well as the US northeast, has been suffering through a glacial cold spell, with heavy snowfalls that have led to scores of flight cancellations.

At the end of the United ordeal, passenger Dutt &nbsp;tweeted that "it's been a long long long long day."

A medical emergency and a mechanical problem left passengers on a United Airlines flight stuck for about 16 hours on the frigid tarmac of a Canadian airport in the plane's barely heated interior, the CBC network reported.

A medical emergency and a mechanical problem left passengers on a United Airlines flight stuck for about 16 hours on the frigid tarmac of a Canadian airport in the plane's barely heated interior, the CBC network reported. United Flight 179 had taken off late Saturday from Newark, New Jersey en route to Hong Kong with about 250 passengers on board. When a passenger suffered a medical problem the plane made an emergency landing at Goose Bay airport in Newfoundland and Labrador province, on Canada's east coast, the airline told CBC. But after paramedics took him to hospital, the plane was unable to take off, reportedly because bitterly cold temperatures of -30 degrees Celsius (-22 degrees Fahrenheit) had caused a door to freeze. With no customs officers on duty overnight, passengers were forced to stay on board, many shivering under the thin blankets handed out by flight attendants. With food and water running short roughly 10 hours into the ordeal, officials finally arrived to deliver supplies from the Tim Hortons fast-food chain known in Canada for its coffee and doughnuts. One of the passengers, Sonjay Dutt, reached by phone, said the plane was under-heated and that the arrival of the food and coffee was not enough to appease increasingly angry passengers. A relief aircraft arrived in Goose Bay late Sunday morning. After the passengers were transferred to the plane by bus, it took off in mid-afternoon to take them back to Newark, where they originally came from the day before, CBC said. Much of eastern Canada, as well as the US northeast, has been suffering through a glacial cold spell, with heavy snowfalls that have led to scores of flight cancellations. At the end of the United ordeal, passenger Dutt tweeted that "it's been a long long long long day."

Passengers shiver through 16-hour ordeal on Canadian tarmac

hong-kong

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

hong kong

Changes in fugitive offenders ordinance could undermine Hong Kong’s autonomy: US

Gravitas: Hong Kong's largest protest since 1997

Hong Kong sees anti-extradition protests

Foreign forces, Opposition creating havoc in Hong Kong: China daily

Why is Hong Kong's China extradition plan so controversial?

Massive extradition bill protest fills HK streets

WION CHAT: Patrick Fok, Wion Correspondent on Hong Kong protest

Why a million marching in Hong Kong?

Hundreds of thousands march in Hong Kong to protest China extradition bill

Thousands of Hong Kong lawyers march against China extradition plans

In China-controlled Hong Kong, freedom is the biggest casualty

Hong Kong millennial fights to vindicate June 4th democracy crackdown

Alibaba plans $20 billion in Hong Kong listing, biggest follow-on sale in seven years

Alibaba plans $20 billion in Hong Kong listing, biggest follow-on sale in seven years

EU lodges formal diplomatic note against contentious Hong Kong extradition bill

Global Round-up: Watch major global headlines of the day , 13 May 2019

Hong Kong's Cheung Chau Bun Festival ends with vibrant celebrations

Brawl breaks out in Hong Kong's legislative council, lawmaker wheeled away on stretcher

US comments on Hong Kong 'gross interference': China

Thousands march to Hong Kong Parliament

Hong Kong democracy leaders jailed over Umbrella Movement protests

Asian markets fluctuate as dealers brush off Wall Street record

Court finds three guilty in umbrella movement in China-controlled Hong Kong

Hong Kong Umbrella protesters found guilty of public nuisance