<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/whats-next-for-hong-kongs-protest-movement-251680">Hong Kong</a> leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday the city's police force, which has been accused of beating activists and using excessive force during protests, is under extreme pressure and acknowledged it will be a "long road" towards healing rifts.

Beijing-backed Lam said it was "quite remarkable" there had not been fatalities during <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-say-protesters-bring-manmade-disaster-to-hong-kong-251500">three months of protests</a>, and she hoped dialogue would help resolve the political crisis gripping the Asian financial centre.

Police cast doubt over allegations that officers beat a man during a protest on Saturday, while Amnesty International called on the government to investigate police use of force against demonstrators.

Police Acting Senior Superintendent Vasco Williams told reporters on Monday that footage of the alleged incident appeared to show an "officer kicking a yellow object", not a man, in an alley.

He conceded that the incident needed to be investigated, although he ruled out police "malpractice" and added that the video could have been "doctored".

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What started as protests over a now-shelved extradition bill that would have allowed criminal suspects to be sent to mainland China for trial have evolved into broader calls for greater democracy and an independent inquiry into police actions.

Demonstrators are frustrated at what they see as Beijing's tightening grip over the former British colony, which returned to China in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula intended to guarantee freedoms not enjoyed on the mainland.

China has said it is committed to the arrangement and denies interfering.

Lam said that, while she supported the police to safeguard the rule of law, "that doesn't mean that I would condone irregularities or wrong practices done by the police force".

"I know the level of mutual trust is now relatively low in Hong Kong, but we have to make sure that we can continue to operate as a civil society," she told reporters.

Red lines

Lam was speaking after Amnesty called for an investigation into police actions and urged the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-fire-tear-gas-after-storming-shopping-mall-251349">Hong Kong</a> government to encourage Beijing to safeguard protesters' right to peaceful assembly.

"Ordering an independent and effective investigation into police actions would be a vital first step," Joshua Rosenzweig, head of Amnesty's East Asia regional office, said in a report.

"Authorities need to show they are willing to protect human rights in Hong Kong, even if this means pushing back against Beijing's 'red line'."

In 2017, Chinese President Xi Jinping warned in a speech marking the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong's handover to Beijing that any attempt to undermine China's sovereignty was a "red line" that would not be tolerated.

The protests have weighed on Hong Kong's stock exchange. On Tuesday, the Asia-Pacific unit of brewer Anheuser-Busch InBev NV (AB InBev) raised about $5 billion in a Hong Kong IPO, after being priced at the bottom of a marketed range. In July, the company cancelled plans for an IPO aiming to raise $9.8 billion.

The wider economy has also been hit. The Hong Kong Trade Development Council said on Monday that it expects Hong Kong's exports to shrink by 4% this year, in what would mark its worst export performance in a decade.

Lawmaker attacked

A democratic lawmaker, Roy Kwong, was taken to hospital on Tuesday after being punched and kicked by three men in the Tin Shui Wai district close to the border with mainland China.

Fellow Democratic Party lawmaker Lam Cheuk-ting said the assailants had suspected triad, or organised criminal backgrounds, and intended "to send a message to threaten all" pro-democracy lawmakers.

Over more than three months, many peaceful protests have degenerated into running battles between black-clad protesters and police, who have responded with tear gas, water cannon, rubber bullets, bean bag rounds and several live rounds fired into the air.

Police, who have also been seen beating protesters on the ground with batons, say they have shown restraint in the face of increased violence, including protesters hurling petrol bombs.

Lam said she hoped a dialogue session on Thursday evening with 150 members of the public would help bridge the divide, but conceded "it will be a long journey to achieve reconciliation in society."

In a direct challenge to Communist Party rulers in mainland China, some protesters have targeted Beijing's representative office in Hong Kong, thrown bricks outside the Chinese People's Liberation Army base and set fire to the Chinese flag.

The city is on edge ahead of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic on October 1, with authorities eager to avoid scenes that could embarrass the central government in Beijing.

Lam said all national events should be respected and held in a safe environment.

Guests at a flag-raising ceremony to mark the occasion will be moved indoors so it "can be carried out in a solemn and orderly manner", the Home Affairs Department told Reuters on Tuesday.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday the city's police force, which has been accused of beating activists and using excessive force during protests, is under extreme pressure and acknowledged it will be a "long road" towards healing rifts.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday the city's police force, which has been accused of beating activists and using excessive force during protests, is under extreme pressure and acknowledged it will be a "long road" towards healing rifts. Beijing-backed Lam said it was "quite remarkable" there had not been fatalities during three months of protests, and she hoped dialogue would help resolve the political crisis gripping the Asian financial centre. Police cast doubt over allegations that officers beat a man during a protest on Saturday, while Amnesty International called on the government to investigate police use of force against demonstrators. Police Acting Senior Superintendent Vasco Williams told reporters on Monday that footage of the alleged incident appeared to show an "officer kicking a yellow object", not a man, in an alley. He conceded that the incident needed to be investigated, although he ruled out police "malpractice" and added that the video could have been "doctored". × What started as protests over a now-shelved extradition bill that would have allowed criminal suspects to be sent to mainland China for trial have evolved into broader calls for greater democracy and an independent inquiry into police actions. Demonstrators are frustrated at what they see as Beijing's tightening grip over the former British colony, which returned to China in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula intended to guarantee freedoms not enjoyed on the mainland. China has said it is committed to the arrangement and denies interfering. Lam said that, while she supported the police to safeguard the rule of law, "that doesn't mean that I would condone irregularities or wrong practices done by the police force". "I know the level of mutual trust is now relatively low in Hong Kong, but we have to make sure that we can continue to operate as a civil society," she told reporters. Red lines Lam was speaking after Amnesty called for an investigation into police actions and urged the Hong Kong government to encourage Beijing to safeguard protesters' right to peaceful assembly. "Ordering an independent and effective investigation into police actions would be a vital first step," Joshua Rosenzweig, head of Amnesty's East Asia regional office, said in a report. "Authorities need to show they are willing to protect human rights in Hong Kong, even if this means pushing back against Beijing's 'red line'." In 2017, Chinese President Xi Jinping warned in a speech marking the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong's handover to Beijing that any attempt to undermine China's sovereignty was a "red line" that would not be tolerated. The protests have weighed on Hong Kong's stock exchange. On Tuesday, the Asia-Pacific unit of brewer Anheuser-Busch InBev NV (AB InBev) raised about $5 billion in a Hong Kong IPO, after being priced at the bottom of a marketed range. In July, the company cancelled plans for an IPO aiming to raise $9.8 billion. The wider economy has also been hit. The Hong Kong Trade Development Council said on Monday that it expects Hong Kong's exports to shrink by 4% this year, in what would mark its worst export performance in a decade. Lawmaker attacked A democratic lawmaker, Roy Kwong, was taken to hospital on Tuesday after being punched and kicked by three men in the Tin Shui Wai district close to the border with mainland China. Fellow Democratic Party lawmaker Lam Cheuk-ting said the assailants had suspected triad, or organised criminal backgrounds, and intended "to send a message to threaten all" pro-democracy lawmakers. Over more than three months, many peaceful protests have degenerated into running battles between black-clad protesters and police, who have responded with tear gas, water cannon, rubber bullets, bean bag rounds and several live rounds fired into the air. Police, who have also been seen beating protesters on the ground with batons, say they have shown restraint in the face of increased violence, including protesters hurling petrol bombs. Lam said she hoped a dialogue session on Thursday evening with 150 members of the public would help bridge the divide, but conceded "it will be a long journey to achieve reconciliation in society." In a direct challenge to Communist Party rulers in mainland China, some protesters have targeted Beijing's representative office in Hong Kong, thrown bricks outside the Chinese People's Liberation Army base and set fire to the Chinese flag. The city is on edge ahead of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic on October 1, with authorities eager to avoid scenes that could embarrass the central government in Beijing. Lam said all national events should be respected and held in a safe environment. Guests at a flag-raising ceremony to mark the occasion will be moved indoors so it "can be carried out in a solemn and orderly manner", the Home Affairs Department told Reuters on Tuesday.

Hong Kong leader says police under extreme pressure; acknowledges 'long road' ahead

Hong Kong police said the pro-democracy protesters are pushing the city 'to the verge of manmade disaster', as violence <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-curbs-airport-links-as-protesters-vow-stress-test-251127">protests</a> continued for the 16th week in the Chinese-rule city.

Demonstrators caused a rampage in MTR subway stations, starting fires on a few streets over the weekend and tried to steal a policeman's gun, police said.

A few men were also reportedly beaten up by the protesters after an argument. Footage from local media showed at least four men were violently beaten up on the streets and MTR station over the weekend.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-fire-tear-gas-after-storming-shopping-mall-251349">Police</a> on Sunday fired tear gas to disperse protesters in the latest clashes in more than three months of unrest that has plunged the Chinese-ruled city into its worst political crisis in decades.

The biggest of several clashes took place in or near Mass Transit Railway (MTR) stations, now a familiar target of attack because stations are often closed at the government's behest to stop demonstrators from gathering.

Hong Kong police said the pro-democracy protesters are pushing the city 'to the verge of manmade disaster', as violence protests continued for the 16th week in the Chinese-rule city.

Hong Kong police said the pro-democracy protesters are pushing the city 'to the verge of manmade disaster', as violence protests continued for the 16th week in the Chinese-rule city. Demonstrators caused a rampage in MTR subway stations, starting fires on a few streets over the weekend and tried to steal a policeman's gun, police said. A few men were also reportedly beaten up by the protesters after an argument. Footage from local media showed at least four men were violently beaten up on the streets and MTR station over the weekend. Police on Sunday fired tear gas to disperse protesters in the latest clashes in more than three months of unrest that has plunged the Chinese-ruled city into its worst political crisis in decades. The biggest of several clashes took place in or near Mass Transit Railway (MTR) stations, now a familiar target of attack because stations are often closed at the government's behest to stop demonstrators from gathering.

Police say protesters bring ‘manmade disaster’ to Hong Kong

Hong Kong reduced rail and bus links to the city's airport on Sunday and police stepped up security checks in a bid to scupper plans by pro-democracy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-protesters-clash-in-16th-weekend-of-rallies-251060">protesters to disrupt the bustling transport hub</a>.

The airport -- the world's eighth busiest -- has become a frequent target for a protest movement pushing for greater democratic rights and police accountability.

Online forums used by the largely leaderless movement had called for a "stress test" of the airport on Sunday, code for disrupting travel links or occupying buildings.

But in a bid to stop large numbers of protesters making their way to the airport, transport operators on Sunday reduced the number of stations the city's Airport Express train would stop at and also pared down bus services.

Millions of pro-democracy supporters have taken to Hong Kong's streets for the past three months in the biggest challenge to China's rule since the city's handover from Britain in 1997.

With few protester demands met, violent clashes have become more intense and frequent.

Watch:&nbsp;Hong Kong still remains on the boil

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Early on in the movement protests at the airport were peaceful, with good-natured crowds of activists using the arrival hall to educate travellers about their goals.

Protesters then took a more hardline approach in a bid to ramp up pressure on Beijing and city leaders by denting Hong Kong's reputation as a stable business destination.

In late August, flights were severely disrupted for two days after crowds occupied the arrival and departure halls, physically halting passengers from taking flights and later beating two men they accused of being Chinese mainland spies.

A third major disruption occurred on September 1 when road and rail links to the airport were blocked, forcing many travellers to abandon vehicles and drag their luggage for kilometres.

Mall singing

In recent weeks police have shown a better ability to stymie attempts to disrupt the airport.

A promised "stress test" on September 7 failed to materialise when riot police fanned out across major stations, and train and bus services were reduced.

It is the 16th consecutive weekend Hong Kong has seen rallies or clashes.

The protests were ignited by a now-abandoned plan to allow extraditions to authoritarian mainland China, but after Beijing and local leaders took a hard line the movement snowballed and became much wider.

Core demands from protesters include an inquiry into the police, an amnesty for those arrested and universal suffrage -- all rejected by authorities and Beijing.

Earlier this month city leader Carrie Lam abandoned the extradition bill and called for dialogue but the concessions was viewed as too little, too late by many.

As a result, the protests show little sign of abating.

On Saturday police used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse hardcore activists throwing rocks and petrol bombs in two towns near the border with mainland China.

On Sunday afternoon hundreds gathered in a mall in the district of Sha Tin to sing a popular protest anthem.

Protesters are aiming to draw out large crowds next weekend -- the fifth anniversary of the start of a previous round of failed democracy protests -- and on October 1, the 70th anniversary of the founding of communist China.

Hong Kong reduced rail and bus links to the city's airport on Sunday and police stepped up security checks in a bid to scupper plans by pro-democracy protesters to disrupt the bustling transport hub.

Hong Kong reduced rail and bus links to the city's airport on Sunday and police stepped up security checks in a bid to scupper plans by pro-democracy protesters to disrupt the bustling transport hub. The airport -- the world's eighth busiest -- has become a frequent target for a protest movement pushing for greater democratic rights and police accountability. Online forums used by the largely leaderless movement had called for a "stress test" of the airport on Sunday, code for disrupting travel links or occupying buildings. But in a bid to stop large numbers of protesters making their way to the airport, transport operators on Sunday reduced the number of stations the city's Airport Express train would stop at and also pared down bus services. Millions of pro-democracy supporters have taken to Hong Kong's streets for the past three months in the biggest challenge to China's rule since the city's handover from Britain in 1997. With few protester demands met, violent clashes have become more intense and frequent. Watch: Hong Kong still remains on the boil Early on in the movement protests at the airport were peaceful, with good-natured crowds of activists using the arrival hall to educate travellers about their goals. Protesters then took a more hardline approach in a bid to ramp up pressure on Beijing and city leaders by denting Hong Kong's reputation as a stable business destination. In late August, flights were severely disrupted for two days after crowds occupied the arrival and departure halls, physically halting passengers from taking flights and later beating two men they accused of being Chinese mainland spies. A third major disruption occurred on September 1 when road and rail links to the airport were blocked, forcing many travellers to abandon vehicles and drag their luggage for kilometres. Mall singing In recent weeks police have shown a better ability to stymie attempts to disrupt the airport. A promised "stress test" on September 7 failed to materialise when riot police fanned out across major stations, and train and bus services were reduced. It is the 16th consecutive weekend Hong Kong has seen rallies or clashes. The protests were ignited by a now-abandoned plan to allow extraditions to authoritarian mainland China, but after Beijing and local leaders took a hard line the movement snowballed and became much wider. Core demands from protesters include an inquiry into the police, an amnesty for those arrested and universal suffrage -- all rejected by authorities and Beijing. Earlier this month city leader Carrie Lam abandoned the extradition bill and called for dialogue but the concessions was viewed as too little, too late by many. As a result, the protests show little sign of abating. On Saturday police used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse hardcore activists throwing rocks and petrol bombs in two towns near the border with mainland China. On Sunday afternoon hundreds gathered in a mall in the district of Sha Tin to sing a popular protest anthem. Protesters are aiming to draw out large crowds next weekend -- the fifth anniversary of the start of a previous round of failed democracy protests -- and on October 1, the 70th anniversary of the founding of communist China.

Hong Kong curbs airport links as protesters vow 'stress test'

A group of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-converge-on-hong-kong-police-headquarters-in-anti-govt-demonstration-229127">protestors in Hong Kong</a> on Sunday trampled on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-state-media-criticise-foreign-hypocrisy-over-hong-kong-after-climbdown-227824">Chinese</a> national flag and threw it into the Shing Mun river.

They also smeared paint on the flag as bystanders cheered and applauded, reported Straits Times.

The demonstrators raised slogans such as "Hong Kong people, keep it up", "Fight for freedom", and "Liberate Hong Kong".

The protests entered the 16th week with radical demonstrators vandalising the New Town Plaza shopping centre and setting fire to barricades they built on the road outside.

Two subway stations were closed in the area by the authorities.&nbsp;

Police hoisted a black flag to warn the protestors that they could use tear gas. The riot police, in a statement, asked the demonstrators to stop "illegal acts" and leave immediately.&nbsp;

Since June, Hong Kong has seen weeks of anti-government protests that began against a now-suspended extradition bill, which would have allowed criminals to be sent to mainland China for trial.

The agitations have since broadened to include calls for democracy, police accountability and the resignation of chief Carri Lam, who is backed by Beijing.

Protesters and police have clashed with both sides using force in the Asian financial hub.

China has decried the protests and threatened military action in the semi-autonomous city, with a Chinese official alleging that the demonstrations have "begun to show signs of terrorism".

Hong Kong functions under the `one country, two systems` rule and was handed back to China by Britain in 1997.&nbsp;

A group of protestors in Hong Kong on Sunday trampled on the Chinese national flag and threw it into the Shing Mun river. They also smeared paint on the flag as bystanders cheered and applauded, reported Straits Times.

A group of protestors in Hong Kong on Sunday trampled on the Chinese national flag and threw it into the Shing Mun river. They also smeared paint on the flag as bystanders cheered and applauded, reported Straits Times. The demonstrators raised slogans such as "Hong Kong people, keep it up", "Fight for freedom", and "Liberate Hong Kong". The protests entered the 16th week with radical demonstrators vandalising the New Town Plaza shopping centre and setting fire to barricades they built on the road outside. Two subway stations were closed in the area by the authorities. Police hoisted a black flag to warn the protestors that they could use tear gas. The riot police, in a statement, asked the demonstrators to stop "illegal acts" and leave immediately. Since June, Hong Kong has seen weeks of anti-government protests that began against a now-suspended extradition bill, which would have allowed criminals to be sent to mainland China for trial. The agitations have since broadened to include calls for democracy, police accountability and the resignation of chief Carri Lam, who is backed by Beijing. Protesters and police have clashed with both sides using force in the Asian financial hub. China has decried the protests and threatened military action in the semi-autonomous city, with a Chinese official alleging that the demonstrations have "begun to show signs of terrorism". Hong Kong functions under the `one country, two systems` rule and was handed back to China by Britain in 1997.

Hong Kong protestors trample Chinese national flag, throw it into river

Activists from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-unrest-protesters-plan-shopping-mall-sit-ins-after-hill-top-human-chains-249585">Hong Kong</a> and Xinjiang shared a platform to raise their voice against human rights violations by China on the sidelines of the 42nd session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on Friday.

Beatrice Li and Andy Li, the two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-activist-joshua-wong-seeks-trump-us-congress-support-249535">activists from Hong Kong</a>, brought used tear gas canisters, solid rubber batons, smoke grenade, rubber rocket and other arms used by the Hong Kong Police against the protesters to the side event to establish their claim.

<iframe data-google-container-id="4" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>They said that the residents of Hong Kong are denied fundamental rights and are living in fear of being targeted.

"Hong Kong police has physically and verbally assaulted the journalists and other citizens", said Beatrice Li, an activist from Hong Kong adding that the use of lethal and chemical weapons is causing health issues for residents.

Meanwhile, Andy Li, Human Rights activist from Hong Kong said, "If the Chinese government has already committed atrocities in other lands which they do not have legal control of, we cannot imagine what would have happened if they are allowed full legal control over the Hong Kong land."

"The people of Hong Kong have realised that the government of Hong Kong is accountable to China, not to its own people," he added.

Since June, millions of Hong Kong people began to mobilise against an extradition bill that would allow dissidents to be sent to face trial in China, whose criminal justice system is rife with human rights abuses.

Instead of listening to the demands of the people, the Hong Kong government has engaged in a coordinated suppression of Hong Kongers rights and freedoms, including those of assembly, expression and the press.

The Hong Kong Police Force has moreover used escalating tactics of state violence to suppress largely peaceful political protests.

According to data, 1,453 people have been arrested from June 09 until September 16.

Dolkun Isa of&nbsp;World&nbsp;Uyghur Congress, said people in Xinjiang have been suffering China's brutalities for the past many decades.

He also showed sympathy for Hong Kong people saying that China is breaking the democratic values of Hong Kong by interfering in its internal affairs."Hong Kong people don't want to be Xinjiang", he added.

Activists from Hong Kong and Xinjiang shared a platform to raise their voice against human rights violations by China on the sidelines of the 42nd session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on Friday.

Activists from Hong Kong and Xinjiang shared a platform to raise their voice against human rights violations by China on the sidelines of the 42nd session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on Friday. Beatrice Li and Andy Li, the two activists from Hong Kong, brought used tear gas canisters, solid rubber batons, smoke grenade, rubber rocket and other arms used by the Hong Kong Police against the protesters to the side event to establish their claim. They said that the residents of Hong Kong are denied fundamental rights and are living in fear of being targeted. "Hong Kong police has physically and verbally assaulted the journalists and other citizens", said Beatrice Li, an activist from Hong Kong adding that the use of lethal and chemical weapons is causing health issues for residents. Meanwhile, Andy Li, Human Rights activist from Hong Kong said, "If the Chinese government has already committed atrocities in other lands which they do not have legal control of, we cannot imagine what would have happened if they are allowed full legal control over the Hong Kong land." "The people of Hong Kong have realised that the government of Hong Kong is accountable to China, not to its own people," he added. Since June, millions of Hong Kong people began to mobilise against an extradition bill that would allow dissidents to be sent to face trial in China, whose criminal justice system is rife with human rights abuses. Instead of listening to the demands of the people, the Hong Kong government has engaged in a coordinated suppression of Hong Kongers rights and freedoms, including those of assembly, expression and the press. The Hong Kong Police Force has moreover used escalating tactics of state violence to suppress largely peaceful political protests. According to data, 1,453 people have been arrested from June 09 until September 16. Dolkun Isa of World Uyghur Congress, said people in Xinjiang have been suffering China's brutalities for the past many decades. He also showed sympathy for Hong Kong people saying that China is breaking the democratic values of Hong Kong by interfering in its internal affairs."Hong Kong people don't want to be Xinjiang", he added.

Geneva: Activists from Hong Kong, Xinjiang raise concerns over human rights violations by China

Ten weeks of confrontations between police and protesters have plunged Hong Kong into turmoil, and present the biggest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. The protests began as opposition to a now-suspended bill that would have allowed suspects to be extradited to mainland China and have swelled into wider calls for democracy.

Hong Kong still remains on the boil

Riot police and protesters in Hong Kong fought brief skirmishes near the Chinese border on Saturday, the latest clashes during huge pro-democracy protests that have battered the financial hub for more than three months.

Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at small groups of hardcore activists who had built barricades in the outlying town of Tuen Mun, some of them lobbing bricks and at least one Molotov cocktail.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/when-will-you-die-hong-kong-leader-carrie-lam-grilled-at-press-conference-242677">'When will you die?' Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam grilled at press conference</a>

Multiple protesters were seen being arrested in the clashes, which were less sustained than the intense battles of previous weekends.

The city has been convulsed by months of huge, sometimes violent rallies calling for greater democratic freedoms and police accountability.

The movement is the biggest challenge to China's rule since <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amnesty-accuses-hong-kong-police-of-abuses-torture-of-protestors-250814">Hong Kong</a> was handed back by Britain in 1997 and shows no sign of ending, with city leaders and Beijing taking a hard line.

Saturday's clashes were the 16th straight weekend of protests and skirmishes.

In a now-familiar pattern, the day began with a peaceful rally through Tuen Mun, a town in Hong Kong's northwest, close to the border with mainland China.

At one point, a handful of protesters pulled down China's flag flying outside a local government office and burned it.

Tensions soon spiked after police snatch squads rushed into a park where crowds had gathered and made a series of arrests.

Hundreds of hardcore activists then built barricades and dismantled nearby fences to arm themselves with makeshift clubs. Objects were also thrown onto nearby train tracks.

But protesters showed little appetite in holding ground, quickly retreating as soon as tear gas and rubber bullets were fired by police.

By Saturday evening, pockets of demonstrators and police were playing a familiar game of cat and mouse.

Calvin Tan, 22, was among those taking part in the rally earlier in the day.

He said most protesters were prepared for a "long term fight".

"Every small protest matters, even though it doesn't seem to help that much, it's like each small step in a marathon," he told AFP.

'No choice'

Tan described himself as a moderate who avoids clashes with police. But he said he ideologically supports those on the frontlines.

"When facing institutional violence, we have no choice but to respond with street fights," he said. "We have tried peaceful, rational and non-violent methods and continued using these ways to fight for our demands."

Hong Kong has been plunged into crisis this summer.

The protests were ignited by a now-scrapped plan to allow extraditions to the authoritarian Chinese mainland.

But when local leaders and Beijing refused to budge it snowballed into a wider campaign for democracy, fuelled by animosity towards the police.

Protesters have hurled rocks, bottles and petrol bombs as well as used slingshots in their battles with police, who have responded with tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannons with growing frequency.

On Friday Amnesty International released a report accusing Hong Kong's police of using excessive force, in some cases amounting to torture.

The UN's rights watchdog has also criticized the city's police.

But the city's force rejects such criticism, saying their officers have used proportionate force against hardcore protesters who are showing increasing levels of violence.

At a briefing with foreign journalists on Friday, a senior commanding officer said he was alarmed by the latest tactics from protesters.

"Our officers are worried that&nbsp;violence has got to such a level that they might have to kill someone or be killed themselves," he said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"We have been so restrained but in the face of such violence, this pressure has become extremely dangerous."

Riot police and protesters in Hong Kong fought brief skirmishes near the Chinese border on Saturday, the latest clashes during huge pro-democracy protests that have battered the financial hub for more than three months.

Riot police and protesters in Hong Kong fought brief skirmishes near the Chinese border on Saturday, the latest clashes during huge pro-democracy protests that have battered the financial hub for more than three months. Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at small groups of hardcore activists who had built barricades in the outlying town of Tuen Mun, some of them lobbing bricks and at least one Molotov cocktail. Also read: 'When will you die?' Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam grilled at press conference Multiple protesters were seen being arrested in the clashes, which were less sustained than the intense battles of previous weekends. The city has been convulsed by months of huge, sometimes violent rallies calling for greater democratic freedoms and police accountability. The movement is the biggest challenge to China's rule since Hong Kong was handed back by Britain in 1997 and shows no sign of ending, with city leaders and Beijing taking a hard line. Saturday's clashes were the 16th straight weekend of protests and skirmishes. In a now-familiar pattern, the day began with a peaceful rally through Tuen Mun, a town in Hong Kong's northwest, close to the border with mainland China. At one point, a handful of protesters pulled down China's flag flying outside a local government office and burned it. Tensions soon spiked after police snatch squads rushed into a park where crowds had gathered and made a series of arrests. Hundreds of hardcore activists then built barricades and dismantled nearby fences to arm themselves with makeshift clubs. Objects were also thrown onto nearby train tracks. But protesters showed little appetite in holding ground, quickly retreating as soon as tear gas and rubber bullets were fired by police. By Saturday evening, pockets of demonstrators and police were playing a familiar game of cat and mouse. Calvin Tan, 22, was among those taking part in the rally earlier in the day. He said most protesters were prepared for a "long term fight". "Every small protest matters, even though it doesn't seem to help that much, it's like each small step in a marathon," he told AFP. 'No choice' Tan described himself as a moderate who avoids clashes with police. But he said he ideologically supports those on the frontlines. "When facing institutional violence, we have no choice but to respond with street fights," he said. "We have tried peaceful, rational and non-violent methods and continued using these ways to fight for our demands." Hong Kong has been plunged into crisis this summer. The protests were ignited by a now-scrapped plan to allow extraditions to the authoritarian Chinese mainland. But when local leaders and Beijing refused to budge it snowballed into a wider campaign for democracy, fuelled by animosity towards the police. Protesters have hurled rocks, bottles and petrol bombs as well as used slingshots in their battles with police, who have responded with tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannons with growing frequency. On Friday Amnesty International released a report accusing Hong Kong's police of using excessive force, in some cases amounting to torture. The UN's rights watchdog has also criticized the city's police. But the city's force rejects such criticism, saying their officers have used proportionate force against hardcore protesters who are showing increasing levels of violence. At a briefing with foreign journalists on Friday, a senior commanding officer said he was alarmed by the latest tactics from protesters. "Our officers are worried that violence has got to such a level that they might have to kill someone or be killed themselves," he said, speaking on condition of anonymity. "We have been so restrained but in the face of such violence, this pressure has become extremely dangerous."

Hong Kong police, protesters clash in 16th weekend of rallies

Amnesty International accused <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/activists-push-us-congress-to-pass-hong-kong-bill-250392">Hong Kong </a>police on Friday of torture and other abuses in their handling of more than three months of pro-democracy protests, but the police say they have shown restraint on the street in the face of increased violence.

Anti-government protesters, many masked and wearing black, have thrown petrol bombs at police and central government offices, stormed the Legislative Council, blocked roads to the airport, trashed metro stations and lit fires on the streets of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/stand-up-to-beijing-hong-kong-singer-tells-us-lawmakers-companies-250172"> Chinese-ruled city</a>.

Police have responded with tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, bean bag rounds and several live rounds fired in the air, warning the crowds beforehand with a series of different coloured banners.

They have also been seen beating protesters on the ground with batons, with footage of one such attack on cowering passengers on an MTR subway train going viral online and prompting widespread anger.

"The evidence leaves little room for doubt – in an apparent thirst for retaliation, Hong Kong’s security forces have engaged in a disturbing pattern of reckless and unlawful tactics against people during the protests," Nicholas Bequelin, East Asia director at Amnesty International, said in a report following a field investigation. "This has included arbitrary arrests and retaliatory violence against arrested persons in custody, some of which has amounted to torture.”

In one instance, police shone green lasers into the eyes of detainees, Amnesty said, employing a tactic previously used by many protesters against police.

Responding to the Amnesty report, police said they have respected the "privacy, dignity and rights" of those in custody according to regulations, allowing detainees transport to hospitals and communication with lawyers and their families.

"The force to be used by police shall be the minimum force necessary for achieving a lawful purpose," police said in an emailed statement.

The official police Facebook page earlier noted that almost 240 police had been wounded in the violent protests as they exercised "a high level of restraint ... to restore public order."

The recent round of protests in Hong Kong, a former British colony that was returned to China under a "one country, two systems" arrangement in 1997, was sparked by planned legislation that would have allowed people accused of breaking Chinese laws to be sent to the mainland for trial.

The legislation was withdrawn but the protests have broadened into calls for universal suffrage, including an independent inquiry into perceived police brutality, with demonstrators angry about what they see as creeping interference by Beijing.

China has said it is committed to the "one country, two systems" arrangement that ensures freedoms not enjoyed on the mainland, including right of assembly and an independent judiciary, and denies interfering. It has accused foreign powers, particularly the United States and Britain, of fomenting the unrest and told them to mind their own business.

In a direct challenge to Communist Party rulers in Beijing, some protesters on Sunday threw bricks at police outside the Chinese People's Liberation Army base and set fire to a red banner proclaiming the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

Amnesty International accused Hong Kong police on Friday of torture and other abuses in their handling of more than three months of pro-democracy protests, but the police say they have shown restraint on the street in the face of increased violence.

Amnesty International accused Hong Kong police on Friday of torture and other abuses in their handling of more than three months of pro-democracy protests, but the police say they have shown restraint on the street in the face of increased violence. Anti-government protesters, many masked and wearing black, have thrown petrol bombs at police and central government offices, stormed the Legislative Council, blocked roads to the airport, trashed metro stations and lit fires on the streets of the Chinese-ruled city. Police have responded with tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, bean bag rounds and several live rounds fired in the air, warning the crowds beforehand with a series of different coloured banners. They have also been seen beating protesters on the ground with batons, with footage of one such attack on cowering passengers on an MTR subway train going viral online and prompting widespread anger. "The evidence leaves little room for doubt – in an apparent thirst for retaliation, Hong Kong’s security forces have engaged in a disturbing pattern of reckless and unlawful tactics against people during the protests," Nicholas Bequelin, East Asia director at Amnesty International, said in a report following a field investigation. "This has included arbitrary arrests and retaliatory violence against arrested persons in custody, some of which has amounted to torture.” In one instance, police shone green lasers into the eyes of detainees, Amnesty said, employing a tactic previously used by many protesters against police. Responding to the Amnesty report, police said they have respected the "privacy, dignity and rights" of those in custody according to regulations, allowing detainees transport to hospitals and communication with lawyers and their families. "The force to be used by police shall be the minimum force necessary for achieving a lawful purpose," police said in an emailed statement. The official police Facebook page earlier noted that almost 240 police had been wounded in the violent protests as they exercised "a high level of restraint ... to restore public order." The recent round of protests in Hong Kong, a former British colony that was returned to China under a "one country, two systems" arrangement in 1997, was sparked by planned legislation that would have allowed people accused of breaking Chinese laws to be sent to the mainland for trial. The legislation was withdrawn but the protests have broadened into calls for universal suffrage, including an independent inquiry into perceived police brutality, with demonstrators angry about what they see as creeping interference by Beijing. China has said it is committed to the "one country, two systems" arrangement that ensures freedoms not enjoyed on the mainland, including right of assembly and an independent judiciary, and denies interfering. It has accused foreign powers, particularly the United States and Britain, of fomenting the unrest and told them to mind their own business. In a direct challenge to Communist Party rulers in Beijing, some protesters on Sunday threw bricks at police outside the Chinese People's Liberation Army base and set fire to a red banner proclaiming the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

Amnesty accuses Hong Kong police of abuses, torture of protestors

Hong Kong democracy activists urged members of the U.S. Congress on Tuesday to pass legislation to combat human rights abuses in the city, rejecting any suggestion that such a move would be inappropriate U.S. involvement in another country's affairs.

Activists push U.S. Congress to pass Hong Kong bill

100 Days Of The Hong Kong Protest. Watch video to know more

100 Days Of The Hong Kong Protest

101 days in: 'How Hong Kongers sustain protests with creativity'

A pro-democracy Hong Kong legislator called on the top U.N. human rights body on Monday to investigate what she said were “brutal crackdowns” and “police brutality” against demonstrators in the former British colony.

Hong Kong Lawmaker Appeal To The UN

MTR Train Carrying Passengers Derails in Hong Kong. Watch video to know more.

MTR Train Carrying Passengers Derails in Hong Kong

Fresh protests erupt outside the British consulate in Hong Kong Protests. Hundreds of protesters gathered. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong: Fresh protests erupt outside British consulate

Hundreds of Hong Kong protesters singing "God Save the Queen" and waving Union Jack flags rallied outside the British Consulate on Sunday demanding that the former colonial power ensures China honours its commitments to the city's freedoms.

The Chinese-ruled territory has been rocked by weeks of sometimes violent pro-democracy protests, with demonstrators angry about what they see as creeping interference by Beijing in their city's affairs despite a promise of autonomy.

The Sino-British Joint Declaration, signed in 1984, lays out Hong Kong's future after its return to China in 1997, a "one country, two systems" formula that ensures freedoms not enjoyed on the mainland.

"Sino-British Joint Declaration is VOID," one placard read. "SOS Hong Kong," read another.

"One country, two systems is dead," they shouted in English under the sub-tropical sun, some carrying the colonial flag also bearing the Union Jack. "Free Hong Kong."

With many young people looking for routes out of Hong Kong, campaigners say Britain should change the status of the British National (Overseas) passport, a category created after Britain returned Hong Kong to China.

The passports allow a holder to visit Britain for six months, but do not come with an automatic right to live or work there.

“I am here to demand the UK protect our citizens' rights in Hong Kong and speak up for Hong Kong under the Joint Declaration,” Jacky Tsang, 25, told Reuters.

The spark for the protests was planned legislation, now withdrawn, that would have allowed people to be sent to mainland China for trial, despite Hong Kong having its own much-respected independent judiciary.

The protests have since broadened into calls for universal suffrage.

China says it is committed to the "one country, two systems" arrangement, denies meddling and says the city is an internal Chinese issue. It has accused foreign powers, particularly the United States and Britain, of fomenting the unrest and told them to mind their own business.

Britain says it has a legal responsibility to ensure China abides by the 1984 declaration.

"The Joint Declaration is a legally binding treaty between the UK and China that remains as valid today as it was when it was signed and ratified over 30 years ago," a British Foreign Office spokeswoman said in June.

"As a co-signatory, the UK government will continue to defend our position."

But it was not immediately clear what Britain could or would want to do defend that position. It is pinning its hopes on closer trade and investment cooperation with China, which since 1997 has risen to become the world's second-largest economy, after it leaves the European Union at the end of next month.

The Civil Human Rights Front has also called for a mass rally in Victoria Park, just to the east of the central business district, but police have denied permission because of earlier clashes after huge gatherings.

Protesters are expected to turn up early in the afternoon anyway. 
&nbsp;

Hundreds of Hong Kong protesters singing "God Save the Queen" and waving Union Jack flags rallied outside the British Consulate on Sunday demanding that the former colonial power ensures China honours its commitments to the city's freedoms.

Hundreds of Hong Kong protesters singing "God Save the Queen" and waving Union Jack flags rallied outside the British Consulate on Sunday demanding that the former colonial power ensures China honours its commitments to the city's freedoms. The Chinese-ruled territory has been rocked by weeks of sometimes violent pro-democracy protests, with demonstrators angry about what they see as creeping interference by Beijing in their city's affairs despite a promise of autonomy. The Sino-British Joint Declaration, signed in 1984, lays out Hong Kong's future after its return to China in 1997, a "one country, two systems" formula that ensures freedoms not enjoyed on the mainland. "Sino-British Joint Declaration is VOID," one placard read. "SOS Hong Kong," read another. "One country, two systems is dead," they shouted in English under the sub-tropical sun, some carrying the colonial flag also bearing the Union Jack. "Free Hong Kong." With many young people looking for routes out of Hong Kong, campaigners say Britain should change the status of the British National (Overseas) passport, a category created after Britain returned Hong Kong to China. The passports allow a holder to visit Britain for six months, but do not come with an automatic right to live or work there. “I am here to demand the UK protect our citizens' rights in Hong Kong and speak up for Hong Kong under the Joint Declaration,” Jacky Tsang, 25, told Reuters. The spark for the protests was planned legislation, now withdrawn, that would have allowed people to be sent to mainland China for trial, despite Hong Kong having its own much-respected independent judiciary. The protests have since broadened into calls for universal suffrage. China says it is committed to the "one country, two systems" arrangement, denies meddling and says the city is an internal Chinese issue. It has accused foreign powers, particularly the United States and Britain, of fomenting the unrest and told them to mind their own business. Britain says it has a legal responsibility to ensure China abides by the 1984 declaration. "The Joint Declaration is a legally binding treaty between the UK and China that remains as valid today as it was when it was signed and ratified over 30 years ago," a British Foreign Office spokeswoman said in June. "As a co-signatory, the UK government will continue to defend our position." But it was not immediately clear what Britain could or would want to do defend that position. It is pinning its hopes on closer trade and investment cooperation with China, which since 1997 has risen to become the world's second-largest economy, after it leaves the European Union at the end of next month. The Civil Human Rights Front has also called for a mass rally in Victoria Park, just to the east of the central business district, but police have denied permission because of earlier clashes after huge gatherings. Protesters are expected to turn up early in the afternoon anyway.

Hong Kong protesters sing 'God Save the Queen' in plea to former colonial power

Hong Kong protesters seek UK support in the pro-democracy campaign. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong enters 15th week of mass protests

Hong Kong protesters seek UK support in pro-democracy campaign. Watch video to know more.

Hong Kong protesters seek UK support in pro-democracy campaign

Hong Kong police fired water cannon and volleys of tear gas to break up protesters throwing petrol bombs and bricks near the Legislative Council building and central government offices on Sunday, the latest in weeks of sometimes violent unrest.

Hong Kong police fired water cannon and volleys of tear gas to break up protesters throwing petrol bombs and bricks near the Legislative Council building and central government offices on Sunday, the latest in weeks of sometimes violent unrest. Some protesters threw bricks at police outside the nearby Chinese People's Liberation Army base in the city and tore down and set fire to a red banner proclaiming the 70th anniversary on Oct. 1 of the founding of the People's Republic of China. The Chinese-ruled territory has been rocked by more than three months of clashes, with demonstrators angry about what they see as creeping interference by Beijing in their city's affairs despite a promise of autonomy. On July 1, the anniversary of the city's 1997 return to China, protesters wearing hard hats, masks and black shirts laid siege to the Legislative Council building and swarmed inside. Earlier on Sunday, protesters gathered peacefully outside the British Consulate, calling on Britain to rein in China. The Sino-British Joint Declaration, signed in 1984, lays out Hong Kong's future after its return to China in 1997, a "one country, two systems" formula that ensures freedoms not enjoyed on the mainland. "Sino-British Joint Declaration is VOID," one placard read in the protest outside the British Consulate. "SOS Hong Kong," read another. "One country, two systems is dead," protesters shouted in English under umbrellas shielding them from the sub-tropical sun, some carrying the colonial flag also bearing the Union Jack. "Free Hong Kong." Violence has broken out on previous weekends with protesters trashing metro stations and setting fires in the streets. The police have responded with tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannon. The spark for the protests was planned legislation, now withdrawn, that would have allowed people to be sent to mainland China for trial. The protests have since broadened into calls for universal suffrage. 'Legally binding' China says it is committed to the "one country, two systems" arrangement, denies meddling and says the city is an internal Chinese issue. It has accused foreign powers, particularly the United States and Britain, of fomenting the unrest and told them to mind their own business. Britain says it has a legal responsibility to ensure China abides by the 1984 declaration. Hong Kong island was granted to Britain "in perpetuity" in 1842 at the end of the First Opium War. Kowloon, a peninsula on the mainland opposite Hong Kong island, joined later, after the Second Opium War. The colony was expanded to include the New Territories, to the north of Kowloon, on a 99-year lease, in 1898. Britain returned all of the territory to China, which never recognised the "unequal treaties", in 1997. "The Joint Declaration is a legally binding treaty between the UK and China that remains as valid today as it was when it was signed and ratified over 30 years ago," a British Foreign Office spokeswoman said in June. "As a co-signatory, the UK government will continue to defend our position." But it was not immediately clear what Britain could or would want to do to defend that position. It is pinning its hopes on closer trade and investment cooperation with China, which since 1997 has risen to become the world's second-largest economy, after it leaves the European Union at the end of next month.

Hong Kong police fire tear gas, water cannon at petrol-bomb throwing protesters

Social media giant Facebook has suspended 10 'anti-violence'&nbsp;Whatsapp hotlines of Hong Kong police, used by the force to obtain intelligence on the pro-democracy protesters in the semi-autonomous region.

The hotlines were intended to serve as platforms for obtaining intelligence on the protesters'&nbsp;activities by observing the photos and videos shared by its members.&nbsp;

Less than 72 hours after their launch, Facebook stepped in and suspended these hotlines on grounds that the messenger app was intended for private messaging only, reported South China Morning Post.

A statement issued by a Facebook spokesperson on Friday stated that the terms of use of the app states that any non-personal use of the services was not allowed unless otherwise authorised by the company.

"WhatsApp is primarily designed for private messaging and we take action to prevent bulk and automated messaging," the statement read.

While the police have said that it 'decided'&nbsp;to suspend hotline on Friday because it received mixed reviews, South China Morning Post learnt that some of the hotlines were down as early as Tuesday and the police found them inoperable by Friday morning.

"Since the hotline started to operate, a large amount of information was received and at the same time, there were different opinions on the hotline," a statement by the police read.&nbsp;

"As a result, the police decided to suspend the hotline."

Notably, the statement added that the police will "continue to explore various channels to collect information for the prevention and detection of crime".

The report further cited a police source as saying that the plan to launch these hotlines had not been well-prepared by the police.&nbsp;

The view was echoed by another police source, who blamed the large volume of incoming messages, "as many as 10,000 at once," for alerting the social media company.&nbsp;

Social media giant Facebook has suspended 10 'anti-violence' Whatsapp hotlines of Hong Kong police, used by the force to obtain intelligence on the pro-democracy protesters in the semi-autonomous region.

Social media giant Facebook has suspended 10 'anti-violence' Whatsapp hotlines of Hong Kong police, used by the force to obtain intelligence on the pro-democracy protesters in the semi-autonomous region. The hotlines were intended to serve as platforms for obtaining intelligence on the protesters' activities by observing the photos and videos shared by its members. Less than 72 hours after their launch, Facebook stepped in and suspended these hotlines on grounds that the messenger app was intended for private messaging only, reported South China Morning Post. A statement issued by a Facebook spokesperson on Friday stated that the terms of use of the app states that any non-personal use of the services was not allowed unless otherwise authorised by the company. "WhatsApp is primarily designed for private messaging and we take action to prevent bulk and automated messaging," the statement read. While the police have said that it 'decided' to suspend hotline on Friday because it received mixed reviews, South China Morning Post learnt that some of the hotlines were down as early as Tuesday and the police found them inoperable by Friday morning. "Since the hotline started to operate, a large amount of information was received and at the same time, there were different opinions on the hotline," a statement by the police read. "As a result, the police decided to suspend the hotline." Notably, the statement added that the police will "continue to explore various channels to collect information for the prevention and detection of crime". The report further cited a police source as saying that the plan to launch these hotlines had not been well-prepared by the police. The view was echoed by another police source, who blamed the large volume of incoming messages, "as many as 10,000 at once," for alerting the social media company.

Facebook suspends 'anti-violence' Whatsapp hotlines of Hong Kong police

Pro-democracy demonstrators in Hong Kong held a human chain protest during the Mid-Autumn Festival on Friday (September 13). As darkness fell, protesters armed with flashlights, mobile phones and lanterns gathered at Victoria Peak and Lion Rock.

Hong Kong Protests: Pro-democracy human chain protest over Lion Rock Peak

Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong urged US President Donald Trump on Friday to include a "human rights clause" in any trade agreement with China, and sought Washington's backing for the city's democracy movement.

The 22-year-old called on American politicians to pass a bill expressing support for the pro-democracy campaign during a speaking engagement in New York, a few hours after arriving in the United States.

"It's significant to add a human rights clause in the trade negotiations and put Hong Kong protests under the agenda of the trade negotiations," Wong told AFP afterwards.&nbsp;

The world's two biggest economies have been locked in a bitter trade war for the past year, resulting in tit-for-tat tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars in two-way trade.

Trade talks between Beijing and Washington are scheduled for October.

Wong said it was crucial Hong Kong was factored into the negotiations, saying it faced the threat of emergency laws "similar to martial law" and feared that China would send troops to the semi-autonomous region.&nbsp;

"If China has no intention to safeguard Hong Kong's economic freedom and open business it will also affect and damage the world economy," he said.

Wong arrived in the US after visiting Germany as he seeks global support for Hong Kong's widening pro-democracy protests that have crippled parts of the Asian financial hub in recent months, including its airport.

Millions have taken to Hong Kong's streets over the last 14 weeks in the biggest challenge to China's rule since the city's handover from Britain in 1997.

'Year of discontent'&nbsp;

Beijing summoned the German ambassador this week after Wong, one of the most prominent faces in the city's leaderless pro-democracy demonstrations, met Germany's foreign minister.

Wong is due to attend a Tuesday congressional hearing in Washington on the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2019.&nbsp;

He will meet Republican Senator Marco Rubio, a vocal critic of China, who introduced the bill in June, but it's not clear if he will meet anyone from Trump's administration yet.

Wong urged Congress to pass the legislation, which could undermine Hong Kong's special US trade privileges by mandating regular checks on whether authorities were respecting the Basic Law that underpins the city's semi-autonomous status.

Hong Kong protesters have been increasingly calling for help from the US in recent weeks. On Sunday, thousands of demonstrators, some waving American flags, marched outside the US consulate in Hong Kong.

China has regularly accused "external forces," notably the United States, of being behind the unrest in Hong Kong, an accusation foreign countries deny.

Wong told around 200 students at New York's Columbia University the purpose of his US visit was to put Hong Kong "under the global spotlight."

"The summer of discontent is becoming the year of discontent," he said, indicating that activists would not back down until they are guaranteed free and fair elections -- a promise enshrined in the handover agreement between Britain and China.

Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong urged US President Donald Trump on Friday to include a "human rights clause" in any trade agreement with China, and sought Washington's backing for the city's democracy movement.

Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong urged US President Donald Trump on Friday to include a "human rights clause" in any trade agreement with China, and sought Washington's backing for the city's democracy movement. The 22-year-old called on American politicians to pass a bill expressing support for the pro-democracy campaign during a speaking engagement in New York, a few hours after arriving in the United States. "It's significant to add a human rights clause in the trade negotiations and put Hong Kong protests under the agenda of the trade negotiations," Wong told AFP afterwards. The world's two biggest economies have been locked in a bitter trade war for the past year, resulting in tit-for-tat tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars in two-way trade. Trade talks between Beijing and Washington are scheduled for October. Wong said it was crucial Hong Kong was factored into the negotiations, saying it faced the threat of emergency laws "similar to martial law" and feared that China would send troops to the semi-autonomous region. "If China has no intention to safeguard Hong Kong's economic freedom and open business it will also affect and damage the world economy," he said. Wong arrived in the US after visiting Germany as he seeks global support for Hong Kong's widening pro-democracy protests that have crippled parts of the Asian financial hub in recent months, including its airport. Millions have taken to Hong Kong's streets over the last 14 weeks in the biggest challenge to China's rule since the city's handover from Britain in 1997. 'Year of discontent' Beijing summoned the German ambassador this week after Wong, one of the most prominent faces in the city's leaderless pro-democracy demonstrations, met Germany's foreign minister. Wong is due to attend a Tuesday congressional hearing in Washington on the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2019. He will meet Republican Senator Marco Rubio, a vocal critic of China, who introduced the bill in June, but it's not clear if he will meet anyone from Trump's administration yet. Wong urged Congress to pass the legislation, which could undermine Hong Kong's special US trade privileges by mandating regular checks on whether authorities were respecting the Basic Law that underpins the city's semi-autonomous status. Hong Kong protesters have been increasingly calling for help from the US in recent weeks. On Sunday, thousands of demonstrators, some waving American flags, marched outside the US consulate in Hong Kong. China has regularly accused "external forces," notably the United States, of being behind the unrest in Hong Kong, an accusation foreign countries deny. Wong told around 200 students at New York's Columbia University the purpose of his US visit was to put Hong Kong "under the global spotlight." "The summer of discontent is becoming the year of discontent," he said, indicating that activists would not back down until they are guaranteed free and fair elections -- a promise enshrined in the handover agreement between Britain and China.

Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong seeks Trump, US congress support

Residents in China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) performed the fire dragon dance on Friday to celebrate the traditional Mid-Autumn Festival and called for peace.

Hong Kongers perform dragon dance to celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival, calling for peace

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-activist-joshua-wong-seeks-trump-us-congress-support-249535">Hong Kong pro-democracy activists</a> plan sit-ins at shopping malls on Saturday after a night in which protesters took to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-hills-shine-with-protest-lights-in-festival-themed-rally-249521">hills to form lantern-carrying human chains</a>, the latest demonstrations in months of unrest in the Chinese-ruled city.

Demonstrators also plan to gather outside the British Consulate on Sunday to demand that China honours a Sino-British Joint Declaration that was signed in 1984, laying out the former British colony's future after its return to China in 1997.

Protesters came out peacefully in their hundreds across the territory on Friday, singing and chanting on the Mid-Autumn Festival, in contrast to the violence of many previous weekends when police have responded with tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannon.

They have also gathered in malls, with occasional scuffles with flag-carrying China supporters.

The spark for the protests, due to resume on Saturday afternoon, was a now-withdrawn extradition bill and concerns that Beijing is eroding civil liberties, but many young protesters are also angry about sky-high living costs and a lack of job prospects.

The bill would have allowed people to be sent to mainland China for trial in Communist Party-controlled courts, but the protests have now broadened into calls for greater democracy.

Hong Kong returned to China under a "one country, two systems" formula that guarantees freedoms not enjoyed on the mainland - including a much-cherished independent legal system.

China says Hong Kong is now its internal affair. It says it is committed to the "one country, two systems" arrangement and denies meddling in Hong Kong's affairs.

China is eager to quell the unrest before the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China on Oct. 1. It has accused foreign powers, particularly the United States and Britain, of fomenting the unrest.

Britain says it has a legal responsibility to ensure China abides by its obligations under the 1984 declaration.

"The Joint Declaration is a legally binding treaty between the UK and China that remains as valid today as it was when it was signed and ratified over 30 years ago," a British Foreign Office spokeswoman said in June.

"As a co-signatory, the UK government will continue to defend our position."

But there is little London can do to force Beijing's hand, pinning its hopes on closer trade and investment cooperation with the world's second-largest economy after Britain leaves the European Union as planned at the end of next month.

Hong Kong pro-democracy activists plan sit-ins at shopping malls on Saturday after a night in which protesters took to the hills to form lantern-carrying human chains, the latest demonstrations in months of unrest in the Chinese-ruled city.

Hong Kong pro-democracy activists plan sit-ins at shopping malls on Saturday after a night in which protesters took to the hills to form lantern-carrying human chains, the latest demonstrations in months of unrest in the Chinese-ruled city. Demonstrators also plan to gather outside the British Consulate on Sunday to demand that China honours a Sino-British Joint Declaration that was signed in 1984, laying out the former British colony's future after its return to China in 1997. Protesters came out peacefully in their hundreds across the territory on Friday, singing and chanting on the Mid-Autumn Festival, in contrast to the violence of many previous weekends when police have responded with tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannon. They have also gathered in malls, with occasional scuffles with flag-carrying China supporters. The spark for the protests, due to resume on Saturday afternoon, was a now-withdrawn extradition bill and concerns that Beijing is eroding civil liberties, but many young protesters are also angry about sky-high living costs and a lack of job prospects. The bill would have allowed people to be sent to mainland China for trial in Communist Party-controlled courts, but the protests have now broadened into calls for greater democracy. Hong Kong returned to China under a "one country, two systems" formula that guarantees freedoms not enjoyed on the mainland - including a much-cherished independent legal system. China says Hong Kong is now its internal affair. It says it is committed to the "one country, two systems" arrangement and denies meddling in Hong Kong's affairs. China is eager to quell the unrest before the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China on Oct. 1. It has accused foreign powers, particularly the United States and Britain, of fomenting the unrest. Britain says it has a legal responsibility to ensure China abides by its obligations under the 1984 declaration. "The Joint Declaration is a legally binding treaty between the UK and China that remains as valid today as it was when it was signed and ratified over 30 years ago," a British Foreign Office spokeswoman said in June. "As a co-signatory, the UK government will continue to defend our position." But there is little London can do to force Beijing's hand, pinning its hopes on closer trade and investment cooperation with the world's second-largest economy after Britain leaves the European Union as planned at the end of next month.

Hong Kong unrest: Protesters plan shopping mall sit-ins after hill-top human chains

Thousands of Hong Kong pro-democracy activists used torches, lanterns and laser pens to light up some of the city's best-known hillsides on Friday night in an eye-catching protest alongside an annual festival.

Friday evening marks the start of the mid-autumn festival, one of the most important dates in the Chinese calendar, and is traditionally a time for thanksgiving, spending time with family and praying for good fortune.

But as Hong Kong convulses from more than three months of political unrest, activists used the night as a way to keep their movement buoyant with no signs of protests abating.

Throughout the evening, thousands of activists with torches on their heads hiked up hill trails leading to the top of Lion Rock, which overlooks the sprawling skyscrapers of the city's Kowloon district, one of the most densely populated places on earth.

They also gathered to form a long human chain on the Peak -- a popular tourist spot which offers picture-postcard views of Hong Kong and its dramatic waterfront.

Both groups, whose lights were visible to each other across the harbour, chanted slogans and sang "Glory to Hong Kong", an anonymously penned protest anthem which has gone viral in recent days.

Other crowds gathered in parks across the city and along the harbourfront, shining mobile phone lights, lasers and lanterns.

"Today's autumn festival is a symbol of family and togetherness, so this is in the spirit of gathering the power of the Hong Kong people," a 24-year-old protester, who gave his surname Yip, told AFP as he sweated his way to the top of Lion Rock in the unforgiving sticky evening heat.

"We are going to fight with Hong Kong and fight for freedom," added another protester, who gave his surname Shum.&nbsp;

On the Peak, protester Wan Luk said she skipped the traditional meal with her family.

"I think Hong Kong people need to unite their power, so I came out," she said.

Weeks of protest

Hong Kong has been battered by nearly 100 days of protests, sparked by a now-abandoned plan to allow extraditions to the mainland.

After local leaders and Beijing took a hard line, the movement snowballed into wider calls for democracy, police accountability and a halt to eroding freedoms in what is the greatest challenge to Beijing's rule since the 1997 handover.

Millions have taken part in huge, largely peaceful demonstrations.

But smaller groups of hardline protesters have fought increasingly violent battles with riot police and vandalised subway stations in scenes that have sent shockwaves through the once-stable financial hub.

The city is now deeply polarised with fights frequently breaking out between different political camps.

Under a deal signed with Britain ahead of the city's 1997 handover to China, Hong Kong is allowed to keep its unique freedoms for 50 years.

But democracy activists accuse Beijing of reneging on those promises by ramping up political control over the semi-autonomous territory.

Protests to continue

City leader Carrie Lam made the surprise move last week to fully scrap the loathed extradition law -- but the gesture was dismissed by protesters as too little, too late.

On Friday evening, in one of the protest movement's more surreal moments, small groups of demonstrators gathered on a housing estate where Lam was visiting, shouting "We want to eat mooncakes".

Residents told local media Lam had made a brief visit to a nearby elderly home to distribute mooncakes, a dense pastry handed out during the mid-autumn festival.

Activists and analysts say the movement will only end when some of the other key demands are met such as an inquiry into the police, an amnesty for the nearly 1,400 people arrested and universal suffrage.

There is little sign of Beijing ceding to those demands or the protests abating.

Plans by demonstrators to hold rallies on Saturday and Sunday have been rejected by the police.

But previous bans have simply been ignored by the masses and clashes with police have quickly followed.

On Sunday, protesters had planned to march through the city while a separate, smaller demonstration was planned outside the British consulate in a bid to call on London to do more to protect the former colony from Beijing's tightening grip.Student groups have also called for a week-long general strike starting on 1 October, when leaders in Beijing will be celebrating the 70th anniversary of the founding of communist China.&nbsp;

Thousands of Hong Kong pro-democracy activists used torches, lanterns and laser pens to light up some of the city's best-known hillsides on Friday night in an eye-catching protest alongside an annual festival.

Thousands of Hong Kong pro-democracy activists used torches, lanterns and laser pens to light up some of the city's best-known hillsides on Friday night in an eye-catching protest alongside an annual festival. Friday evening marks the start of the mid-autumn festival, one of the most important dates in the Chinese calendar, and is traditionally a time for thanksgiving, spending time with family and praying for good fortune. But as Hong Kong convulses from more than three months of political unrest, activists used the night as a way to keep their movement buoyant with no signs of protests abating. Throughout the evening, thousands of activists with torches on their heads hiked up hill trails leading to the top of Lion Rock, which overlooks the sprawling skyscrapers of the city's Kowloon district, one of the most densely populated places on earth. They also gathered to form a long human chain on the Peak -- a popular tourist spot which offers picture-postcard views of Hong Kong and its dramatic waterfront. Both groups, whose lights were visible to each other across the harbour, chanted slogans and sang "Glory to Hong Kong", an anonymously penned protest anthem which has gone viral in recent days. Other crowds gathered in parks across the city and along the harbourfront, shining mobile phone lights, lasers and lanterns. "Today's autumn festival is a symbol of family and togetherness, so this is in the spirit of gathering the power of the Hong Kong people," a 24-year-old protester, who gave his surname Yip, told AFP as he sweated his way to the top of Lion Rock in the unforgiving sticky evening heat. "We are going to fight with Hong Kong and fight for freedom," added another protester, who gave his surname Shum. On the Peak, protester Wan Luk said she skipped the traditional meal with her family. "I think Hong Kong people need to unite their power, so I came out," she said. Weeks of protest Hong Kong has been battered by nearly 100 days of protests, sparked by a now-abandoned plan to allow extraditions to the mainland. After local leaders and Beijing took a hard line, the movement snowballed into wider calls for democracy, police accountability and a halt to eroding freedoms in what is the greatest challenge to Beijing's rule since the 1997 handover. Millions have taken part in huge, largely peaceful demonstrations. But smaller groups of hardline protesters have fought increasingly violent battles with riot police and vandalised subway stations in scenes that have sent shockwaves through the once-stable financial hub. The city is now deeply polarised with fights frequently breaking out between different political camps. Under a deal signed with Britain ahead of the city's 1997 handover to China, Hong Kong is allowed to keep its unique freedoms for 50 years. But democracy activists accuse Beijing of reneging on those promises by ramping up political control over the semi-autonomous territory. Protests to continue City leader Carrie Lam made the surprise move last week to fully scrap the loathed extradition law -- but the gesture was dismissed by protesters as too little, too late. On Friday evening, in one of the protest movement's more surreal moments, small groups of demonstrators gathered on a housing estate where Lam was visiting, shouting "We want to eat mooncakes". Residents told local media Lam had made a brief visit to a nearby elderly home to distribute mooncakes, a dense pastry handed out during the mid-autumn festival. Activists and analysts say the movement will only end when some of the other key demands are met such as an inquiry into the police, an amnesty for the nearly 1,400 people arrested and universal suffrage. There is little sign of Beijing ceding to those demands or the protests abating. Plans by demonstrators to hold rallies on Saturday and Sunday have been rejected by the police. But previous bans have simply been ignored by the masses and clashes with police have quickly followed. On Sunday, protesters had planned to march through the city while a separate, smaller demonstration was planned outside the British consulate in a bid to call on London to do more to protect the former colony from Beijing's tightening grip.Student groups have also called for a week-long general strike starting on 1 October, when leaders in Beijing will be celebrating the 70th anniversary of the founding of communist China.

Hong Kong hills shine with protest lights in festival-themed rally

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