Pro-democracy activists kicked off three days of rallies at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-tells-united-states-diplomats-in-hong-kong-to-stop-interfering-241565/amp">Hong Kong's airport </a>on Friday, hoping to win international support from arriving passengers as the protests that have rocked the city enter the third month.

The rallies, promoted on social media with a mock boarding pass reading "HK to freedom" and "warm pick-up to guests to HK", will be the second time protesters have brought their message to the international travel hub.

The gatherings, expected to run over three days, have not been authorised, but the last demonstration at the airport passed off peacefully without causing flight disruptions.

Watch Video:

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The protests that began in opposition to a plan to allow extradition to mainland China have morphed into a broader movement seeking to reverse a slide in freedoms in the city.

Demonstrators have staged protests throughout Hong Kong and held rallies for families, older people, lawyers and civil servants, in a bid to show their demands have broad and enduring support.

They have announced a series of marches and protests across the city over the weekend, including a "families' rally".

Extra security measures have been put in place at the airport ahead of the rallies, with authorities preventing anyone without a boarding pass from entering the check-in area. The protesters are expected to congregate in the arrivals area.

Hong Kong's Airport Authority said Thursday it was aware of the planned rallies but "the airport will operate normally."

Thousands of Hong Kongers, including flight attendants, rallied at the airport on July 26 to "educate" visitors about the protests that have gripped the international finance hub.

Visitors were greeted by a sea of black-clad protesters chanting anti-government slogans, holding banners and handing out flyers -- the information desk plastered in a tapestry of colourful sticky notes.

The weeks of demonstrations pose the biggest threat to Beijing's authority since Hong Kong's handover from the British in 1997.

And as protests have become increasingly violent, several countries have upgraded their travel warnings for Hong Kong, with Washington this week urging its citizens to "exercise increased caution."

Pro-democracy activists kicked off three days of rallies at Hong Kong's airport on Friday, hoping to win international support from arriving passengers as the protests that have rocked the city enter the third month.

Pro-democracy activists kicked off three days of rallies at Hong Kong's airport on Friday, hoping to win international support from arriving passengers as the protests that have rocked the city enter the third month. The rallies, promoted on social media with a mock boarding pass reading "HK to freedom" and "warm pick-up to guests to HK", will be the second time protesters have brought their message to the international travel hub. The gatherings, expected to run over three days, have not been authorised, but the last demonstration at the airport passed off peacefully without causing flight disruptions. Watch Video: The protests that began in opposition to a plan to allow extradition to mainland China have morphed into a broader movement seeking to reverse a slide in freedoms in the city. Demonstrators have staged protests throughout Hong Kong and held rallies for families, older people, lawyers and civil servants, in a bid to show their demands have broad and enduring support. They have announced a series of marches and protests across the city over the weekend, including a "families' rally". Extra security measures have been put in place at the airport ahead of the rallies, with authorities preventing anyone without a boarding pass from entering the check-in area. The protesters are expected to congregate in the arrivals area. Hong Kong's Airport Authority said Thursday it was aware of the planned rallies but "the airport will operate normally." Thousands of Hong Kongers, including flight attendants, rallied at the airport on July 26 to "educate" visitors about the protests that have gripped the international finance hub. Visitors were greeted by a sea of black-clad protesters chanting anti-government slogans, holding banners and handing out flyers -- the information desk plastered in a tapestry of colourful sticky notes. The weeks of demonstrations pose the biggest threat to Beijing's authority since Hong Kong's handover from the British in 1997. And as protests have become increasingly violent, several countries have upgraded their travel warnings for Hong Kong, with Washington this week urging its citizens to "exercise increased caution."

Hong Kong protesters besiege airport; announce marches over weekend

China's aviation regulator on Friday demanded Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways suspend personnel who have engaged in illegal protests in the city from staffing flights into its airspace from August 10.

Hong Kong has been embroiled in increasingly violent anti-government street protests for the past two months, which a top Chinese official described this week as the greatest crisis since its return from British to Chinese rule in 1997.

Last week, a Cathay pilot was among over 40 people charged with rioting for allegedly taking part in violent clashes with the police near Beijing's main representative office in the city.

On Friday night, the Civil Aviation Administration of China said that Cathay crew who have engaged in the protests pose a threat to aviation safety in mainland China, according to a statement on its website.

The aviation authority ordered Cathay to provide identification information for its crew on mainland-bound flights.&nbsp;

Crew members that have not gained the authority's&nbsp;approval will not be allowed into its airspace, including on flights bound for other destinations.

The airline has also been ordered to draw up proposals to strengthen safety and security, said the statement.

In response, a Cathay Pacific spokesperson said: "We have received the directive and are studying it very carefully. We are treating it seriously and are following up accordingly."

"The safety of our passengers is always the top priority of Cathay Pacific. There is zero tolerance for any inappropriate and unprofessional behavior that may affect aviation safety. We deal with these incidents very seriously."

Cathay said on Thursday it respects "everyone`s right to express themselves in a peaceful and respectful manner," while insisting it "recognizes that Hong Kong SAR is a part of China".

"We do not condone any activities that jeopardize the stability of Hong Kong," it said.&nbsp;

On Monday aviation workers joined a strike that gridlocked Hong Kong, forcing airlines, including Cathay, to cancel hundreds of flights.

Responding to a question on the protests at a press conference earlier this week, Cathay chairman John Slosar said the company respects its staff`s opinions.

"We certainly wouldn't dream of telling them what they have to think about something. They're all adults, they're&nbsp;all service professionals. We respect them greatly," he said.

Global Times, published by the Communist Party`s official People`s Daily, ran news stories this week highlighting Cathay employees` participation in the ongoing protests.

Embattled Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam on Friday urged an end to the violence, claiming that the protests are dragging on the city`s economy.

Hong Kong-listed Cathay is 45% owned by Swire Pacific and 22.7% held by Air China, according to Refinitiv Eikon.

The airline has been Hong Kong`s flag carrier since the colonial era. Swire Pacific's parent, John Swire &amp; Sons Ltd, is a UK-based conglomerate with businesses ranging from property to transportation.

China's aviation regulator on Friday demanded Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways suspend personnel who have engaged in illegal protests in the city from staffing flights into its airspace from August 10.

China's aviation regulator on Friday demanded Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways suspend personnel who have engaged in illegal protests in the city from staffing flights into its airspace from August 10. Hong Kong has been embroiled in increasingly violent anti-government street protests for the past two months, which a top Chinese official described this week as the greatest crisis since its return from British to Chinese rule in 1997. Last week, a Cathay pilot was among over 40 people charged with rioting for allegedly taking part in violent clashes with the police near Beijing's main representative office in the city. On Friday night, the Civil Aviation Administration of China said that Cathay crew who have engaged in the protests pose a threat to aviation safety in mainland China, according to a statement on its website. The aviation authority ordered Cathay to provide identification information for its crew on mainland-bound flights. Crew members that have not gained the authority's approval will not be allowed into its airspace, including on flights bound for other destinations. The airline has also been ordered to draw up proposals to strengthen safety and security, said the statement. In response, a Cathay Pacific spokesperson said: "We have received the directive and are studying it very carefully. We are treating it seriously and are following up accordingly." "The safety of our passengers is always the top priority of Cathay Pacific. There is zero tolerance for any inappropriate and unprofessional behavior that may affect aviation safety. We deal with these incidents very seriously." Cathay said on Thursday it respects "everyone`s right to express themselves in a peaceful and respectful manner," while insisting it "recognizes that Hong Kong SAR is a part of China". "We do not condone any activities that jeopardize the stability of Hong Kong," it said. On Monday aviation workers joined a strike that gridlocked Hong Kong, forcing airlines, including Cathay, to cancel hundreds of flights. Responding to a question on the protests at a press conference earlier this week, Cathay chairman John Slosar said the company respects its staff`s opinions. "We certainly wouldn't dream of telling them what they have to think about something. They're all adults, they're all service professionals. We respect them greatly," he said. Global Times, published by the Communist Party`s official People`s Daily, ran news stories this week highlighting Cathay employees` participation in the ongoing protests. Embattled Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam on Friday urged an end to the violence, claiming that the protests are dragging on the city`s economy. Hong Kong-listed Cathay is 45% owned by Swire Pacific and 22.7% held by Air China, according to Refinitiv Eikon. The airline has been Hong Kong`s flag carrier since the colonial era. Swire Pacific's parent, John Swire & Sons Ltd, is a UK-based conglomerate with businesses ranging from property to transportation.

China orders Cathay Pacific to suspend staff backing Hong Kong protests

Fresh protests are being reported from Hong Kong airport. Pro-democracy activists kicked off a 3-day rally at Hong Kong airport on Friday. Rally was promoted in social media with a mock boarding pass reading "HK to freedom".

WION Dispatch: Protesters in Hong Kong launch fresh protests at airport

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-samjhauta-pakistan-shuts-down-thar-link-express-241745">After Samjhauta, Pakistan shuts down Thar Link Express</a>

A day after shutting down Samjhauta Express--the bi-weekly train that connects Delhi in India to Lahore in Pakistan -- ''forever'', Pakistan on Friday suspended Thar Link Express - a weekly train that runs between Jodhpur to Munabao in India and Khokhrapar to Karachi in Pakistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-chief-warns-of-economic-fall-rules-out-concessions-241809">Hong Kong chief Carrie Lam warns of economic fall, rules out concessions</a>

Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam warned Friday that two months of pro-democracy demonstrations were causing economic chaos in the city but ruled out making concessions to "silence the violent protesters."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-territory-status-for-jammu-and-kashmir-not-a-demotion-but-an-effort-to-align-it-with-rest-of-india-more-intensely-sources-241849">Union Territory status for Jammu and Kashmir not a demotion, but an effort to align it with rest of India more intensely: Sources</a>

Centre is unlikely to hold assembly elections in Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir for at least a year, said sources.&nbsp;

Centre has prepared a detailed plan and wants to use this time to completely overhaul the administration in the Union Territory (UT). Sources have indicated that massive financial and administrative reforms are on anvil starting with a business summit which might take place by end of the year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-wants-to-present-an-alarming-picture-says-external-affairs-spokesperson-raveesh-kumar-241769">Pakistan wants to present an 'alarming picture', says External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar</a>

It's time for Pakistan to accept the reality and stop interfering in the internal affairs of other countries, said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Friday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-roll-out-rupay-cards-in-bhutan-during-state-visit-on-17-18-august-241781">PM Modi to roll out RuPay Cards in Bhutan during state visit on August 17-18</a>

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Friday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will roll out RuPay Cards in Bhutan during his state visit on 17-18 August.

Bhutan will be the second country after Singapore to roll out the services.

After Samjhauta, Pakistan shuts down Thar Link Express A day after shutting down Samjhauta Express--the bi-weekly train that connects Delhi in India to Lahore in Pakistan -- ''forever'', Pakistan on Friday suspended Thar Link Express - a weekly train that runs between Jodhpur to Munabao in India and Khokhrapar to Karachi in Pakistan.

After Samjhauta, Pakistan shuts down Thar Link Express A day after shutting down Samjhauta Express--the bi-weekly train that connects Delhi in India to Lahore in Pakistan -- ''forever'', Pakistan on Friday suspended Thar Link Express - a weekly train that runs between Jodhpur to Munabao in India and Khokhrapar to Karachi in Pakistan. Hong Kong chief Carrie Lam warns of economic fall, rules out concessions Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam warned Friday that two months of pro-democracy demonstrations were causing economic chaos in the city but ruled out making concessions to "silence the violent protesters." Union Territory status for Jammu and Kashmir not a demotion, but an effort to align it with rest of India more intensely: Sources Centre is unlikely to hold assembly elections in Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir for at least a year, said sources. Centre has prepared a detailed plan and wants to use this time to completely overhaul the administration in the Union Territory (UT). Sources have indicated that massive financial and administrative reforms are on anvil starting with a business summit which might take place by end of the year. Pakistan wants to present an 'alarming picture', says External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar It's time for Pakistan to accept the reality and stop interfering in the internal affairs of other countries, said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Friday. PM Modi to roll out RuPay Cards in Bhutan during state visit on August 17-18 Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Friday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will roll out RuPay Cards in Bhutan during his state visit on 17-18 August. Bhutan will be the second country after Singapore to roll out the services.

News brief: Big stories of the day

China demanded Thursday that US diplomats based in <a href="In a statement Thursday, the ministry urged the diplomatic office to &quot;immediately make a clean break with various anti-China rioters&quot; and &quot;stop interfering in Hong Kong's affairs immediately&quot;.">Hong Kong</a> "stop interfering" in the city's affairs, after reports that they met with pro-democracy activists, prompting a furious response from Washington.

China's foreign ministry had expressed "strong dissatisfaction" with US authorities, citing local media reports that a US official from Hong Kong's US consulate general had met with a local "independence group".

In a statement Thursday, the ministry urged the diplomatic office to "immediately make a clean break with various anti-China rioters" and "stop interfering in Hong Kong's affairs immediately".

A report in Hong Kong newspaper Takungpao said there had been a meeting between members of the political party Demosisto -- including prominent democracy activist Joshua Wong -- and Julie Eadeh, political unit chief of the US consulate general in Hong Kong.

Speaking to reporters in Washington, State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus rejected China's claims and accused it of leaking personal details of their diplomat.

"I don't think that that's a formal protest, that is what a thuggish regime would do," she said. "That is not how a responsible nation would behave."

"Our diplomat was doing her job and we commend her work," Ortagus added. "This is what American diplomats do every single day around the world."

A State Department official had earlier in the day told AFP representatives of the US government "meet regularly with a wide cross-section of people across Hong Kong and Macau."

"For example, the day of this particular meeting, our diplomats also met with both pro-establishment and pan-democratic camp legislators, as well as members of the American business community and the consular corps," the spokesperson said on condition of anonymity.

Beijing has increasingly pitched the anti-government protests in the semi-autonomous region as funded by the West but has provided little evidence beyond supportive statements from some Western politicians.

Tensions are high in the Asian financial hub after two months of protests and clashes triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law that quickly evolved into a wider movement for democratic reforms.

Demosisto says it campaigns for more self-determination for Hong Kong but not independence.

Last year, the Hong Kong National Party was outlawed on the grounds it posed a security threat, the first such ban since 1997.

China demanded Thursday that US diplomats based in Hong Kong "stop interfering" in the city's affairs, after reports that they met with pro-democracy activists, prompting a furious response from Washington.

China demanded Thursday that US diplomats based in Hong Kong "stop interfering" in the city's affairs, after reports that they met with pro-democracy activists, prompting a furious response from Washington. China's foreign ministry had expressed "strong dissatisfaction" with US authorities, citing local media reports that a US official from Hong Kong's US consulate general had met with a local "independence group". In a statement Thursday, the ministry urged the diplomatic office to "immediately make a clean break with various anti-China rioters" and "stop interfering in Hong Kong's affairs immediately". A report in Hong Kong newspaper Takungpao said there had been a meeting between members of the political party Demosisto -- including prominent democracy activist Joshua Wong -- and Julie Eadeh, political unit chief of the US consulate general in Hong Kong. Speaking to reporters in Washington, State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus rejected China's claims and accused it of leaking personal details of their diplomat. "I don't think that that's a formal protest, that is what a thuggish regime would do," she said. "That is not how a responsible nation would behave." "Our diplomat was doing her job and we commend her work," Ortagus added. "This is what American diplomats do every single day around the world." A State Department official had earlier in the day told AFP representatives of the US government "meet regularly with a wide cross-section of people across Hong Kong and Macau." "For example, the day of this particular meeting, our diplomats also met with both pro-establishment and pan-democratic camp legislators, as well as members of the American business community and the consular corps," the spokesperson said on condition of anonymity. Beijing has increasingly pitched the anti-government protests in the semi-autonomous region as funded by the West but has provided little evidence beyond supportive statements from some Western politicians. Tensions are high in the Asian financial hub after two months of protests and clashes triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law that quickly evolved into a wider movement for democratic reforms. Demosisto says it campaigns for more self-determination for Hong Kong but not independence. Last year, the Hong Kong National Party was outlawed on the grounds it posed a security threat, the first such ban since 1997.

China tells United States diplomats in Hong Kong to stop interfering

Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam warned Friday that two months of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-gravitas-hong-kong-civil-unrest-escalates-241594">pro-democracy demonstrations </a>were causing economic chaos in the city but ruled out making concessions to "silence the violent protesters."

The embattled leader abruptly announced a press conference after meeting business leaders as demonstrators rallied at the airport, with the protest movement entering its third month.

Lam, whose support for a bill to allow extradition to mainland <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-tells-united-states-diplomats-in-hong-kong-to-stop-interfering-241565/amp">China</a> sparked the crisis, warned that the economic impact of the unrest threatened to be worse than the 2003 SARS outbreak in the financial hub.

"The downturn this time came very quickly. Someone described it as coming like a tsunami," Lam said.

"Compared to the economic downturn caused by SARS that we handled previously, which caused an economic storm, the situation this time is more severe."

"In other words, the economic recovery will take a very long time," she added.

Watch: Fresh protests at Hong Kong airport, mock boarding passes read 'HK to freedom'

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While Lam is a figure of hatred for many pro-democracy activists, her comments echo worried statements from the private sector and the tourism industry in particular.

Hong Kong carrier Cathay Pacific has warned bookings are down, travel agencies have reported drops of up to 50 percent in group tour bookings and the tourism board reported double-digit declines in visitor arrivals in the second half of July.

Protesters have continued to stage almost daily rallies despite increasingly violent confrontations with police that have prompted several countries to issue Hong Kong travel warnings for their citizens.

On Friday, thousands of pro-democracy protesters staged a sit-in at the airport to bring their message to arriving visitors.

Lam has suspended the bill that sparked the crisis, but has not yet responded to protester calls to withdraw it altogether, and she has brushed aside demands for an enquiry into police brutality.

She ruled out meeting the demands of protesters, which also include a call for the direct election of the city's chief executive, currently chosen by Beijing.

"As far as political solution is concerned, I don't think we should just sort of make concessions in order to silence the violent protesters," she said.

"We should do what is right for Hong Kong. And at this moment what is right for Hong Kong... is to stop the violence, and to say no to the chaotic situation that Hong Kong has experienced in the last few weeks, so that we can move on."

She said the way for the economy to begin recovering was to "stop the widespread violent actions now appearing in Hong Kong." 
&nbsp;

Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam warned Friday that two months of pro-democracy demonstrations were causing economic chaos in the city but ruled out making concessions to "silence the violent protesters.

Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam warned Friday that two months of pro-democracy demonstrations were causing economic chaos in the city but ruled out making concessions to "silence the violent protesters." The embattled leader abruptly announced a press conference after meeting business leaders as demonstrators rallied at the airport, with the protest movement entering its third month. Lam, whose support for a bill to allow extradition to mainland China sparked the crisis, warned that the economic impact of the unrest threatened to be worse than the 2003 SARS outbreak in the financial hub. "The downturn this time came very quickly. Someone described it as coming like a tsunami," Lam said. "Compared to the economic downturn caused by SARS that we handled previously, which caused an economic storm, the situation this time is more severe." "In other words, the economic recovery will take a very long time," she added. Watch: Fresh protests at Hong Kong airport, mock boarding passes read 'HK to freedom' × While Lam is a figure of hatred for many pro-democracy activists, her comments echo worried statements from the private sector and the tourism industry in particular. Hong Kong carrier Cathay Pacific has warned bookings are down, travel agencies have reported drops of up to 50 percent in group tour bookings and the tourism board reported double-digit declines in visitor arrivals in the second half of July. Protesters have continued to stage almost daily rallies despite increasingly violent confrontations with police that have prompted several countries to issue Hong Kong travel warnings for their citizens. On Friday, thousands of pro-democracy protesters staged a sit-in at the airport to bring their message to arriving visitors. Lam has suspended the bill that sparked the crisis, but has not yet responded to protester calls to withdraw it altogether, and she has brushed aside demands for an enquiry into police brutality. She ruled out meeting the demands of protesters, which also include a call for the direct election of the city's chief executive, currently chosen by Beijing. "As far as political solution is concerned, I don't think we should just sort of make concessions in order to silence the violent protesters," she said. "We should do what is right for Hong Kong. And at this moment what is right for Hong Kong... is to stop the violence, and to say no to the chaotic situation that Hong Kong has experienced in the last few weeks, so that we can move on." She said the way for the economy to begin recovering was to "stop the widespread violent actions now appearing in Hong Kong."

Hong Kong chief Carrie Lam warns of economic fall, rules out concessions

One of the tools used by both protesters and police on the streets of Hong Kong are high-powered lasers and blinding lights, shined through thick clouds of tear gas to confuse each other and as an additional tool to conceal their identities and activities.

Hong Kong: Protesters using lasers to distract and confuse

The United States raised its travel warning for Hong Kong, urging <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-facing-biggest-crisis-since-handover-senior-china-official-241270">travellers to exercise increased</a> caution in the Chinese territory due to what it described as civil unrest after months of sometimes violent street protests.

The protests in the Asian financial hub began with opposition to a now-suspended<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/around-50-staff-at-hong-kong-disney-join-city-wide-strike-241018"> extradition law</a> and have evolved into a direct challenge to the government and calls for full democracy.

"The protests and confrontations have spilled over into neighbourhoods other than those where the police have permitted marches or rallies," said the advisory, which was posted on the US Consulate General Hong Kong and Macau's website on Wednesday.

"These demonstrations, which can take place with little or no notice, are likely to continue," it said. The advisory was raised to level two on a four-point scale.

Australia also warned its travellers in an updated advisory on Wednesday.

Watch Video:

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The protests pose the biggest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. Xi is also grappling with a debilitating trade war with the United States and a slowing economy.

Hong Kong is facing its worst crisis since it returned to China from British rule in 1997 because of the protests, the head of China's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs office said on Wednesday.

More protests are planned in several districts across the city this weekend, starting on Friday, with demonstrators also planning a three-day rally at the city's international airport.

Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam visited Hong Kong districts on Wednesday to speak with residents and inspect a police station that had been the target of recent protests.

She said in a statement after the visit the government would put forward measures to improve people's livelihoods.

Young people have been at the forefront of the protests and are angry about broader problems that include sky-high living costs and what they see as an unfair housing policy skewed towards the rich.

The normally efficient and orderly city has seen its transport network besieged and shut down by demonstrators, while protests across the city have also shut big-brand stores and popular shopping malls.

Hong Kong police have arrested 589 people since the protests began in June, the youngest aged 13.

Several thousand Hong Kong lawyers, dressed in black, marched in silence on Wednesday to call on the government to safeguard the independence of the city's department of justice.

They fear the justice department's prosecutions of arrested protesters are taking on an increasingly political slant. Many of those arrested have been charged with rioting, which carries a 10-year jail term.

Protesters have started to use increasingly diverse tactics to evade capture, shifting quickly from place to place and using online platforms such as Telegram to direct hundreds of people.

They also circulated brightly coloured pamphlets for tourists ahead of the airport demonstrations to help them understand what was happening. The pamphlets said the protesters would never surrender.

"Dear Travellers, please forgive us for the 'unexpected Hong Kong'. You're arrived in a broken, torn-apart city, not the one you have once pictured. Yet the city you imagined is exactly what we are fighting for," the pamphlets said.

The United States raised its travel warning for Hong Kong, urging travellers to exercise increased caution in the Chinese territory due to what it described as civil unrest after months of sometimes violent street protests.

The United States raised its travel warning for Hong Kong, urging travellers to exercise increased caution in the Chinese territory due to what it described as civil unrest after months of sometimes violent street protests. The protests in the Asian financial hub began with opposition to a now-suspended extradition law and have evolved into a direct challenge to the government and calls for full democracy. "The protests and confrontations have spilled over into neighbourhoods other than those where the police have permitted marches or rallies," said the advisory, which was posted on the US Consulate General Hong Kong and Macau's website on Wednesday. "These demonstrations, which can take place with little or no notice, are likely to continue," it said. The advisory was raised to level two on a four-point scale. Australia also warned its travellers in an updated advisory on Wednesday. Watch Video: The protests pose the biggest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. Xi is also grappling with a debilitating trade war with the United States and a slowing economy. Hong Kong is facing its worst crisis since it returned to China from British rule in 1997 because of the protests, the head of China's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs office said on Wednesday. More protests are planned in several districts across the city this weekend, starting on Friday, with demonstrators also planning a three-day rally at the city's international airport. Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam visited Hong Kong districts on Wednesday to speak with residents and inspect a police station that had been the target of recent protests. She said in a statement after the visit the government would put forward measures to improve people's livelihoods. Young people have been at the forefront of the protests and are angry about broader problems that include sky-high living costs and what they see as an unfair housing policy skewed towards the rich. The normally efficient and orderly city has seen its transport network besieged and shut down by demonstrators, while protests across the city have also shut big-brand stores and popular shopping malls. Hong Kong police have arrested 589 people since the protests began in June, the youngest aged 13. Several thousand Hong Kong lawyers, dressed in black, marched in silence on Wednesday to call on the government to safeguard the independence of the city's department of justice. They fear the justice department's prosecutions of arrested protesters are taking on an increasingly political slant. Many of those arrested have been charged with rioting, which carries a 10-year jail term. Protesters have started to use increasingly diverse tactics to evade capture, shifting quickly from place to place and using online platforms such as Telegram to direct hundreds of people. They also circulated brightly coloured pamphlets for tourists ahead of the airport demonstrations to help them understand what was happening. The pamphlets said the protesters would never surrender. "Dear Travellers, please forgive us for the 'unexpected Hong Kong'. You're arrived in a broken, torn-apart city, not the one you have once pictured. Yet the city you imagined is exactly what we are fighting for," the pamphlets said.

US raises Hong Kong travel warning amid street protests

The United States raised its travel warning for Hong Kong, urging increased caution by visitors to the Chinese territory in the face of what it described as civil unrest after months of sometimes violent street protests.

The United States raised its travel warning for Hong Kong, urging increased caution by visitors to the Chinese territory in the face of what it described as civil unrest after months of sometimes violent street protests. The protests in the Asian financial hub began with opposition to a now-suspended extradition law and have evolved into a direct challenge to the city's government and calls for full democracy. "The protests and confrontations have spilled over into neighbourhoods other than those where the police have permitted marches or rallies," said the advisory, posted on the website of the U.S. state department on Wednesday. "These demonstrations, which can take place with little or no notice, are likely to continue," it added. The advisory was raised to level two on a four-point scale. Australia also warned its travellers in an updated advisory. The protests pose a grave popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. Xi is also grappling with a debilitating trade war with the United States and a slowing economy. China's Foreign Ministry lodged stern representations with the United States, urging U.S. officials to stop sending wrong signals to the "violent separatists" in Hong Kong. The protests have left Hong Kong facing its worst crisis since it returned to China from British rule in 1997, the head of China's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs office said. More protests are planned in several districts across the city this weekend, starting on Friday, with demonstrators also planning a three-day rally at the city's international airport. Police warned activists to protest peacefully and said they had detained three more people, raising the number arrested to nearly 600 since protests began in June, the youngest aged 13. Protesters want the city's embattled leader Carrie Lam to categorically withdraw the extradition bill and an independent inquiry into the government and the police handling of the controversy. Lam, who says the bill is dead but has not withdrawn it, visited some districts on Wednesday to speak with residents and inspect a police station recently targeted by protesters. The government would put forward measures to improve people's livelihoods, she said in a statement after the visit. Further demonstrations Young people are at the forefront of the protests, worried about China encroaching on Hong Kong's freedoms. The city is already battling problems such as sky-high living costs and what people see as an unfair housing policy favoring the wealthy. The normally efficient and orderly city has seen its transport network besieged and shut down by demonstrators, while protests have shut big-brand stores and popular shopping malls. Three masked activists, who did not give their names, held a news conference on Thursday, their second this week and broadcast on domestic television channels, to criticize what they called arbitrary arrests and police use of tear gas. "The continuation of such attempts at spreading fear and suppressing the freedom of press will eventually backfire on the government itself," one activist told the Citizens' Press Conference, a platform protesters are using to voice concerns over the situation in Hong Kong. "The ultimate victim of these tactics will be the police force's crumbling public image," said the activist, who spoke in English. The comments came after plainclothes police arrested a student leader from Baptist University, Keith Fong, because laser pointers he bought were offensive weapons. On Wednesday night, hundreds of protesters held a rally and shined lasers on the dome of the city's Space Museum in Tsim Sha Tsui, demanding Fong be released, and mocking the police's description of the pointers as "laser guns". Several thousand Hong Kong lawyers, dressed in black, marched in silence on Wednesday to call on the government to safeguard the independence of the city's department of justice. They fear the justice department's prosecutions of arrested protesters are taking on an increasingly political slant. Many of those arrested have been charged with rioting, which carries a 10-year jail term. Protesters have started to use increasingly diverse tactics to evade capture, shifting quickly from place to place and using online platforms such as Telegram to direct thousands of people. They also circulated brightly colored pamphlets online ahead of the airport demonstrations, aiming to help tourists understand events, in which they vowed never to surrender. "Dear travellers, please forgive us for the 'unexpected Hong Kong'. You arrive in a broken, torn-apart city, not the one you have once pictured. Yet the city you imagined is exactly what we are fighting for," the pamphlets said.

More Hong Kong protests planned as US raises travel warning

The anti-government demonstrations in Hong Kong are now eight weeks old and still going strong, but the level of violence is rising.

Nobody expects a replay of 1989’s Tiananmen Square massacre, but the weekend after weekend, the confrontation grows more tense. Last week, China’s defence ministry even warned that it might use troops to quell the unrest, saying the protests were “intolerable” and that the army would mobilise troops to restore public order if requested by the Hong Kong government.

Yang Guang, spokesman for Beijing’s Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, followed the paranoid official line on Monday, blaming “irresponsible people” in the West for stirring up trouble in a bid to “contain China’s development”. But when asked if Beijing would send in troops to stop the protests, he only repeated that the Hong Kong government could ask for help if it needed it.

This is a major crisis in the only part of mainland China that is not ruled directly by the Communist Party, but Beijing clearly does not want to go nuclear if it can avoid it. Which it probably can, because at this point, the whole confrontation has become purely symbolic.

It started out in early June as a real struggle over an important issue. The Hong Kong government introduced a bill that would allow criminal suspects in Hong Kong to be extradited to China and face trial in Communist Party-controlled mainland courts (which have a 99% conviction rate).

Everybody assumed that it was acting on orders from Beijing. The protesters were out in the streets at once. The rule of law still exists in Hong Kong, but nobody would be safe if they could be extradited to the People’s Republic at Beijing’s whim.

Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Carrie Lam, backed down very quickly. She “suspended” the draft extradition bill, and various people close to her reminded the media that it would automatically die when the current session of the legislature ends next July.&nbsp;

But, she did not formally withdraw the bill, presumably because that would involve too grave a loss of face for the regime in Beijing.

Since then, the demonstrations have been purely symbolic. The extradition bill is not going to happen, but the protesters want Lam to kill it officially and publicly. Even if she complied, she could always bring it back in the next session of the legislature (whose members have to be approved by Beijing). So even if they win, they have no guarantees for the future. Why bother?

Hong Kong was not a democracy under British rule before 1997, and it is not one now. But it was, and still is, a place where the rule of law prevails, the media is free, and individual rights are respected. However, this special status within China, which was supposed to last for 50 years after the hand-over, has been under growing pressure from Beijing since the rise of President Xi Jinping.

Xi, who has abolished term limits on the presidency, is relentlessly centralising power in China, presumably in the belief that this is the only way to preserve Communist rule in the long run.

He has turned the heavily Muslim province of Xinjiang into an enormous open-air prison, and he is building an online system of ‘social credit’ that will score citizens on their degree of compliance with the regime’s goals and norms. People with low scores will have a hard time in life. And he is nibbling away at Hong Kong’s civil rights, because they set a bad example for other Chinese.

The demonstrators in Hong Kong have carried on because they are trying to make a point: that interfering with Hong Kong’s freedoms is more trouble than it’s worth. So long as Hong Kong remains economically important to the People’s Republic, they have a chance of succeeding, but they can never expect a decisive victory.

Seven-and-a-half million people in Hong Kong are never going to force the Beijing regime to do anything. With the right tactics, however, they can probably preserve their own freedoms, and continue to serve as living proof that an ethnic Chinese society does not have to be a tyranny.&nbsp;

 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-hong-kong-protestors-have-made-their-point-to-china-2779218">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

The anti-government demonstrations in Hong Kong are now eight weeks old and still going strong, but the level of violence is rising. Nobody expects a replay of 1989’s Tiananmen Square massacre, but the weekend after weekend, the confrontation grows more tense.

The anti-government demonstrations in Hong Kong are now eight weeks old and still going strong, but the level of violence is rising. Nobody expects a replay of 1989’s Tiananmen Square massacre, but the weekend after weekend, the confrontation grows more tense. Last week, China’s defence ministry even warned that it might use troops to quell the unrest, saying the protests were “intolerable” and that the army would mobilise troops to restore public order if requested by the Hong Kong government. Yang Guang, spokesman for Beijing’s Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, followed the paranoid official line on Monday, blaming “irresponsible people” in the West for stirring up trouble in a bid to “contain China’s development”. But when asked if Beijing would send in troops to stop the protests, he only repeated that the Hong Kong government could ask for help if it needed it. This is a major crisis in the only part of mainland China that is not ruled directly by the Communist Party, but Beijing clearly does not want to go nuclear if it can avoid it. Which it probably can, because at this point, the whole confrontation has become purely symbolic. It started out in early June as a real struggle over an important issue. The Hong Kong government introduced a bill that would allow criminal suspects in Hong Kong to be extradited to China and face trial in Communist Party-controlled mainland courts (which have a 99% conviction rate). Everybody assumed that it was acting on orders from Beijing. The protesters were out in the streets at once. The rule of law still exists in Hong Kong, but nobody would be safe if they could be extradited to the People’s Republic at Beijing’s whim. Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Carrie Lam, backed down very quickly. She “suspended” the draft extradition bill, and various people close to her reminded the media that it would automatically die when the current session of the legislature ends next July. But, she did not formally withdraw the bill, presumably because that would involve too grave a loss of face for the regime in Beijing. Since then, the demonstrations have been purely symbolic. The extradition bill is not going to happen, but the protesters want Lam to kill it officially and publicly. Even if she complied, she could always bring it back in the next session of the legislature (whose members have to be approved by Beijing). So even if they win, they have no guarantees for the future. Why bother? Hong Kong was not a democracy under British rule before 1997, and it is not one now. But it was, and still is, a place where the rule of law prevails, the media is free, and individual rights are respected. However, this special status within China, which was supposed to last for 50 years after the hand-over, has been under growing pressure from Beijing since the rise of President Xi Jinping. Xi, who has abolished term limits on the presidency, is relentlessly centralising power in China, presumably in the belief that this is the only way to preserve Communist rule in the long run. He has turned the heavily Muslim province of Xinjiang into an enormous open-air prison, and he is building an online system of ‘social credit’ that will score citizens on their degree of compliance with the regime’s goals and norms. People with low scores will have a hard time in life. And he is nibbling away at Hong Kong’s civil rights, because they set a bad example for other Chinese. The demonstrators in Hong Kong have carried on because they are trying to make a point: that interfering with Hong Kong’s freedoms is more trouble than it’s worth. So long as Hong Kong remains economically important to the People’s Republic, they have a chance of succeeding, but they can never expect a decisive victory. Seven-and-a-half million people in Hong Kong are never going to force the Beijing regime to do anything. With the right tactics, however, they can probably preserve their own freedoms, and continue to serve as living proof that an ethnic Chinese society does not have to be a tyranny. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Hong Kong protesters have made their point to China

Hong Kong Protests Intensify Further As China Issues Fresh Warning To Protesters

Gravitas: China's warning to Hong Kong's protesters: Do not play with fire

Hong Kong is facing its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-warns-hong-kong-protesters-not-to-mistake-restraint-for-weakness-241090">biggest crisis </a>since it returned from British to Chinese rule in 1997, the head of China`s Hong Kong and Macau Affairs office said on Wednesday, as more <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-protest-9th-week-of-protest-in-a-row-protesters-pelt-stones-at-police-station-240708">protests</a> were set to rock the Asian financial hub.

Zhang Xiaoming, one of the most senior Chinese officials overseeing Hong Kong affairs, made the comments during a meeting in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen.

Zhang was holding a forum that included Hong Kong delegates to China`s parliament, the National People`s Congress and China`s main consultative body, the CPPCC, to discuss the political crisis in the territory.

Hong Kong has faced months of sometimes violent protests that began with opposition to a now-suspended extradition law, which would have allowed suspects to be tried in mainland courts controlled by the Communist Party.

But the protests have broadened into a backlash against the Hong Kong government, fuelled by many residents` fears of eroding freedoms under the tightening control of China`s Communist Party leaders in Beijing.

Hong Kong lawyers dressed in black are set to march in silence on Wednesday to call on the government to safeguard the independence of the city`s justice department.

Watch: China's warning to Hong Kong's protesters: Do not play with fire

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Protesters plan to surround Hong Kong`s Revenue Tower on Wednesday, after police late on Tuesday fired tear gas to disperse protesters in Sham Shui Po, one of the city`s poorest districts.

Hong Kong`s lawyers fear the Department of Justice`s prosecutions of arrested protesters is taking on an increasingly political slant after 44 protesters were charged with rioting, an offence which carries a 10-year jail term.

Last week a group of unnamed government prosecutors published an open letter accusing Justice Chief Teresa Cheng of putting politics above legal principles.

Hong Kong`s mini-constitution, known as the Basic Law, states that the city`s Department of Justice "shall control criminal prosecutions, free from any interference".

Hong Kong was guaranteed freedoms not granted in mainland China, including an independent judiciary, under a "one country, two systems" formula, when Britain handed it back to China in 1997. But many residents see the now suspended extradition bill as part of a relentless march toward mainland control.

Protesters are demanding a complete withdrawal of the bill, an independent inquiry into the crisis, an investigation into what they say is excessive use of force by police, and for Hong Kong`s leader Carrie Lam to step down.

In China`s sharpest rebuke yet of the protesters, the government on Tuesday warned them not to "play with fire", saying they were pushing Hong Kong into a "dangerous abyss" and called on Hong Kong citizens to protect their homeland.&nbsp;

Global Times, a Chinese tabloid published by the ruling Communist Party`s People`s Daily, showed a video on its official Twitter feed of thousands of police officers taking part in an anti-riot training drill in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen which borders Hong Kong.&nbsp;

The video showed officers in helmets and shields clashing with people in black shirts and yellow construction hats, similar to the unofficial uniform of protesters in Hong Kong.&nbsp;

Hong Kong is facing its biggest crisis since it returned from British to Chinese rule in 1997, the head of China`s Hong Kong and Macau Affairs office said on Wednesday, as more protests were set to rock the Asian financial hub.

Hong Kong is facing its biggest crisis since it returned from British to Chinese rule in 1997, the head of China`s Hong Kong and Macau Affairs office said on Wednesday, as more protests were set to rock the Asian financial hub. Zhang Xiaoming, one of the most senior Chinese officials overseeing Hong Kong affairs, made the comments during a meeting in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen. Zhang was holding a forum that included Hong Kong delegates to China`s parliament, the National People`s Congress and China`s main consultative body, the CPPCC, to discuss the political crisis in the territory. Hong Kong has faced months of sometimes violent protests that began with opposition to a now-suspended extradition law, which would have allowed suspects to be tried in mainland courts controlled by the Communist Party. But the protests have broadened into a backlash against the Hong Kong government, fuelled by many residents` fears of eroding freedoms under the tightening control of China`s Communist Party leaders in Beijing. Hong Kong lawyers dressed in black are set to march in silence on Wednesday to call on the government to safeguard the independence of the city`s justice department. Watch: China's warning to Hong Kong's protesters: Do not play with fire × Protesters plan to surround Hong Kong`s Revenue Tower on Wednesday, after police late on Tuesday fired tear gas to disperse protesters in Sham Shui Po, one of the city`s poorest districts. Hong Kong`s lawyers fear the Department of Justice`s prosecutions of arrested protesters is taking on an increasingly political slant after 44 protesters were charged with rioting, an offence which carries a 10-year jail term. Last week a group of unnamed government prosecutors published an open letter accusing Justice Chief Teresa Cheng of putting politics above legal principles. Hong Kong`s mini-constitution, known as the Basic Law, states that the city`s Department of Justice "shall control criminal prosecutions, free from any interference". Hong Kong was guaranteed freedoms not granted in mainland China, including an independent judiciary, under a "one country, two systems" formula, when Britain handed it back to China in 1997. But many residents see the now suspended extradition bill as part of a relentless march toward mainland control. Protesters are demanding a complete withdrawal of the bill, an independent inquiry into the crisis, an investigation into what they say is excessive use of force by police, and for Hong Kong`s leader Carrie Lam to step down. In China`s sharpest rebuke yet of the protesters, the government on Tuesday warned them not to "play with fire", saying they were pushing Hong Kong into a "dangerous abyss" and called on Hong Kong citizens to protect their homeland. Global Times, a Chinese tabloid published by the ruling Communist Party`s People`s Daily, showed a video on its official Twitter feed of thousands of police officers taking part in an anti-riot training drill in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen which borders Hong Kong. The video showed officers in helmets and shields clashing with people in black shirts and yellow construction hats, similar to the unofficial uniform of protesters in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong facing biggest crisis since handover: Senior China official

People from all walks of life in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-facing-biggest-crisis-since-handover-senior-china-official-241270&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjv0Pqy3fDjAhWW73MBHQ-RAOEQFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Dg2YYvVQ4vzIOKY2BqMni">Hong Kong</a> have strongly condemned the recent violent acts that are harming the city's image and disrupting its order, and are calling for the return to rationality and peace.

Some radicals in Hong Kong launched a so-called "non-cooperation campaign" on Monday, greatly impacting transportation, public services and people's daily lives.

The residents have denounced the rioters' destabilizing behaviour and lamented the negative impact brought by the unrest.

"The roads are blocked and our citizens can't go to work, which is a significant blow to our economy. In the last two months, many of our retail industries and many business activities have been suspended," said Chan Kin-Keung, president of the executive committee of the Association of Hong Kong Professionals.

"Many people want to contribute to Hong Kong's economy, but they (the radicals) adopted a 'non-cooperation campaign', which stops others from working and stops Hong Kong from developing its economy. We feel pained by this," said Ip Chun-yuen, a lawyer in Hong Kong.

Another also decried the disruption caused by the violence.

"The residents are deeply worried about Hong Kong's future and public security. In the past, they could go anywhere they wanted to go. Now before they go out, they have to check and avoid the places where the rioters are," said Chan Han-pan, a member of the Legislative Council (LegCo) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

According to the Hong Kong International Airport, at least 200 flights were cancelled on Monday following the strike of airline workers under the "non-cooperation campaign".

"It is a blow to the local economy. It is also impacting Hong Kong people's ability to go out and work," said a passenger at the airport. 
Tung Chee-Hwa, vice chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, called on Hong Kong residents on Monday to say no to those attempting to destroy Hong Kong with violence.

On the same day, many residents and organizations gathered at the Hong Kong Police Headquarters and expressed their firm support for the Hong Kong police and their law enforcement operations.

"A stable society is the only foundation for development. Only when the police operate effectively can we maintain order, develop our economy, bring our people a good life and free them of fear," said Ho Chun-yin, a LegCo member.

Latest data shows that the protests have put huge downward pressure on Hong Kong's economy. This has prompted many residents to call for a society with the order to safeguard prosperity, stability and the hard-won good life of the residents of Hong Kong.

"We want to maintain today's peaceful and stable life. I hope every Hong Kong resident can step forward peacefully," said Chan Lang-yen, a resident.

"We must communicate with sense. Because violence is not permitted in such a society like Hong Kong, which has the rule of law. We should keep an open mind and work together to continue building Hong Kong into the beautiful home that we have always known," said Noel Shih, a member of the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong.

According to the Hong Kong police, they arrested 148 people during Monday's operations. The suspects were arrested for various offences including unlawful assembly, assaulting police and possession of offensive weapons. Seven police officers were injured during the operations.

People from all walks of life in Hong Kong have strongly condemned the recent violent acts that are harming the city's image and disrupting its order, and are calling for the return to rationality and peace.

People from all walks of life in Hong Kong have strongly condemned the recent violent acts that are harming the city's image and disrupting its order, and are calling for the return to rationality and peace. Some radicals in Hong Kong launched a so-called "non-cooperation campaign" on Monday, greatly impacting transportation, public services and people's daily lives. The residents have denounced the rioters' destabilizing behaviour and lamented the negative impact brought by the unrest. "The roads are blocked and our citizens can't go to work, which is a significant blow to our economy. In the last two months, many of our retail industries and many business activities have been suspended," said Chan Kin-Keung, president of the executive committee of the Association of Hong Kong Professionals. "Many people want to contribute to Hong Kong's economy, but they (the radicals) adopted a 'non-cooperation campaign', which stops others from working and stops Hong Kong from developing its economy. We feel pained by this," said Ip Chun-yuen, a lawyer in Hong Kong. Another also decried the disruption caused by the violence. "The residents are deeply worried about Hong Kong's future and public security. In the past, they could go anywhere they wanted to go. Now before they go out, they have to check and avoid the places where the rioters are," said Chan Han-pan, a member of the Legislative Council (LegCo) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). According to the Hong Kong International Airport, at least 200 flights were cancelled on Monday following the strike of airline workers under the "non-cooperation campaign". "It is a blow to the local economy. It is also impacting Hong Kong people's ability to go out and work," said a passenger at the airport. Tung Chee-Hwa, vice chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, called on Hong Kong residents on Monday to say no to those attempting to destroy Hong Kong with violence. On the same day, many residents and organizations gathered at the Hong Kong Police Headquarters and expressed their firm support for the Hong Kong police and their law enforcement operations. "A stable society is the only foundation for development. Only when the police operate effectively can we maintain order, develop our economy, bring our people a good life and free them of fear," said Ho Chun-yin, a LegCo member. Latest data shows that the protests have put huge downward pressure on Hong Kong's economy. This has prompted many residents to call for a society with the order to safeguard prosperity, stability and the hard-won good life of the residents of Hong Kong. "We want to maintain today's peaceful and stable life. I hope every Hong Kong resident can step forward peacefully," said Chan Lang-yen, a resident. "We must communicate with sense. Because violence is not permitted in such a society like Hong Kong, which has the rule of law. We should keep an open mind and work together to continue building Hong Kong into the beautiful home that we have always known," said Noel Shih, a member of the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong. According to the Hong Kong police, they arrested 148 people during Monday's operations. The suspects were arrested for various offences including unlawful assembly, assaulting police and possession of offensive weapons. Seven police officers were injured during the operations.

Hong Kong residents stand in support of the authorities, codemn riots

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

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 7th, 2019

Police have fired tear gas in Hong Kong as they face off with protesters at multiple locations in the city. Outside the legislative complex, tear gas engulfed protesters, many of whom were holding umbrellas and wearing helmets and gas masks.

Police fire tear gas at multiple protests in HKong

China's ruling Communist Party once again underlined its wholesale support for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/people-impertinently-proposing-to-reclaim-hong-kong-chief-executive-carrie-lam-240740">Hong Kong's embattled leader </a>&nbsp;Carrie Lam on Tuesday as it struggles to contain increasingly violent anti-government unrest.

The two-month crisis has become the biggest threat to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-flights-cancelled-as-hong-kong-protesters-launch-city-wide-strike-240696">Beijing's rule of the semi-autonomous</a> southern Chinese city since its handover from the British in 1997.

One of the protesters' key demands is for Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam to stand down.

But, a day after a series of rallies that included bloody clashes between protesters and pro-government men brandishing poles, the Communist Party's mouthpiece published a front-page commentary in Beijing defending Lam.

"All kinds of evildoing go beyond peaceful demonstrations. No civilisation or society governed by law will tolerate this," said the commentary in the People's Daily.

"The (party's) central committee has full confidence in chief executive Carrie Lam and fully affirms her work."

Officials from China's cabinet-level State Council were also due to hold a press conference on Tuesday afternoon in Beijing about the unrest.&nbsp;

Such media briefings are normally very rare but Tuesday's will be the second in as many weeks.

The demonstrations were triggered by opposition to a planned law that would have allowed extraditions of criminals to mainland China.

They evolved into a wider movement for democratic reform and a halt to eroding freedoms, with protesters' anger fuelled by Lam's refusal to publicly acknowledge their grievances.

In a press conference, Lam on Monday warned the city was nearing a "very dangerous situation" as she framed the protests as a challenge to China's sovereignty.

China's ruling Communist Party once again underlined its wholesale support for Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday as it struggles to contain increasingly violent anti-government unrest.

China's ruling Communist Party once again underlined its wholesale support for Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday as it struggles to contain increasingly violent anti-government unrest. The two-month crisis has become the biggest threat to Beijing's rule of the semi-autonomous southern Chinese city since its handover from the British in 1997. One of the protesters' key demands is for Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam to stand down. But, a day after a series of rallies that included bloody clashes between protesters and pro-government men brandishing poles, the Communist Party's mouthpiece published a front-page commentary in Beijing defending Lam. "All kinds of evildoing go beyond peaceful demonstrations. No civilisation or society governed by law will tolerate this," said the commentary in the People's Daily. "The (party's) central committee has full confidence in chief executive Carrie Lam and fully affirms her work." Officials from China's cabinet-level State Council were also due to hold a press conference on Tuesday afternoon in Beijing about the unrest. Such media briefings are normally very rare but Tuesday's will be the second in as many weeks. The demonstrations were triggered by opposition to a planned law that would have allowed extraditions of criminals to mainland China. They evolved into a wider movement for democratic reform and a halt to eroding freedoms, with protesters' anger fuelled by Lam's refusal to publicly acknowledge their grievances. In a press conference, Lam on Monday warned the city was nearing a "very dangerous situation" as she framed the protests as a challenge to China's sovereignty.

Communist Party has full confidence in Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam: China

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/communist-party-has-full-confidence-in-hong-kong-leader-carrie-lam-china-240981">China's central government</a> on Tuesday warned <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-flights-cancelled-as-hong-kong-protesters-launch-city-wide-strike-240696">Hong Kong protesters</a> that they should not underestimate "the immense strength of the central government".

At a press briefing in Beijing, Yang Guang, spokesman for the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, also said "those who play with fire will perish by it".&nbsp;

The remark has come a day after a series of rallies&nbsp;that included bloody clashes between protesters and pro-government men brandishing poles.

The demonstrations were triggered by opposition to a planned law that would have allowed extraditions of criminals to mainland China.

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They evolved into a wider movement for democratic reform and a halt to eroding freedoms, with protesters' anger fuelled by Lam's refusal to publicly acknowledge their grievances.

The semi-autonomous southern Chinese city has been wracked by two months of protests and clashes between police and increasingly hardcore demonstrators in the biggest threat to Beijing's rule since its 1997 handover from Britain.

In a press conference, Lam on Monday warned the city was nearing a "very dangerous situation" as she framed the protests as a challenge to China's sovereignty.

Under the terms of the 1997 handover deal with Britain, Hong Kong has rights and liberties unseen on the Chinese mainland, including an independent judiciary and freedom of speech.&nbsp;

But many say those rights are being curtailed.

Protesters are demanding the resignation of city leader Carrie Lam, an independent inquiry into police tactics, an amnesty for those arrested, a permanent withdrawal of a reviled extradition bill, and the right to elect their leaders.

China's central government on Tuesday warned Hong Kong protesters that they should not underestimate "the immense strength of the central government". At a press briefing in Beijing, Yang Guang, spokesman for the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, also said "those who play with fire will perish by it".

China's central government on Tuesday warned Hong Kong protesters that they should not underestimate "the immense strength of the central government". At a press briefing in Beijing, Yang Guang, spokesman for the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, also said "those who play with fire will perish by it". The remark has come a day after a series of rallies that included bloody clashes between protesters and pro-government men brandishing poles. The demonstrations were triggered by opposition to a planned law that would have allowed extraditions of criminals to mainland China. × They evolved into a wider movement for democratic reform and a halt to eroding freedoms, with protesters' anger fuelled by Lam's refusal to publicly acknowledge their grievances. The semi-autonomous southern Chinese city has been wracked by two months of protests and clashes between police and increasingly hardcore demonstrators in the biggest threat to Beijing's rule since its 1997 handover from Britain. In a press conference, Lam on Monday warned the city was nearing a "very dangerous situation" as she framed the protests as a challenge to China's sovereignty. Under the terms of the 1997 handover deal with Britain, Hong Kong has rights and liberties unseen on the Chinese mainland, including an independent judiciary and freedom of speech. But many say those rights are being curtailed. Protesters are demanding the resignation of city leader Carrie Lam, an independent inquiry into police tactics, an amnesty for those arrested, a permanent withdrawal of a reviled extradition bill, and the right to elect their leaders.

Central government has immense strength, those who play with fire will perish: China to Hong Kong protesters

About 14,000 protesters also have joined the city-wide strikes. These Anti-government protesters blocked the trains & commuters. Protesters defy the warnings of Beijing.

Hong Kong protest wakes up to Monday, pro-democracy protest gets drastic

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-flights-cancelled-as-hong-kong-protesters-launch-city-wide-strike-240696">Over 100 flights cancelled as Hong Kong protesters launch city-wide strike</a>

More than 100 flights were cancelled in Hong Kong on Monday morning with airport authorities warning passengers of potential disruption, as pro-democracy protesters kick off a city-wide strike.&nbsp;

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Hundreds of passengers were left stranded at the Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) railway station on Sunday after the Central railway made an announcement of trains cancelled and diverted due to heavy rainfall and waterlogging in Mumbai.

Over 100 flights cancelled as Hong Kong protesters launch city-wide strike More than 100 flights were cancelled in Hong Kong on Monday morning with airport authorities warning passengers of potential disruption, as pro-democracy protesters kick off a city-wide strike.

Over 100 flights cancelled as Hong Kong protesters launch city-wide strike More than 100 flights were cancelled in Hong Kong on Monday morning with airport authorities warning passengers of potential disruption, as pro-democracy protesters kick off a city-wide strike. Mental illness problem if you look at both cases: Trump on US shootings President Donald Trump said Sunday that "hate has no place" in the United States after two mass shootings left 29 dead and sparked accusations that his rhetoric was part of the problem. Section 144 imposed in J&K; internet services suspended Mobile internet services have been suspended in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) and all educational institutes have been shut in Srinagar until further orders with the government imposing section 144 in the state. El Paso shooting suspect charged with 'capital murder': Police The suspected shooter in the El Paso massacre that left 20 people dead has been charged with murder offences that can carry the death penalty, police said Sunday. Hundreds stranded at LTT railway station after heavy rains in Mumbai Hundreds of passengers were left stranded at the Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) railway station on Sunday after the Central railway made an announcement of trains cancelled and diverted due to heavy rainfall and waterlogging in Mumbai.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 5th, 2019

More than 100 flights were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/second-night-of-tear-gas-as-hong-kong-protesters-defy-warnings-china-says-it-will-not-sit-idly-by-240666">cancelled in Hong Kong</a> on Monday morning with airport authorities warning passengers of potential disruption, as pro-democracy protesters kick off a city-wide strike.&nbsp;

At least 105 flights were listed as cancelled on the airport's departure page on Monday morning.

Peak-hour morning train travel and international flights in Hong Kong were thrown into chaos as pro-democracy protesters launched an attempted city-wide strike to ramp up pressure on the financial hub's embattled leaders.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/9th-straight-weekend-of-pro-democracy-protests-in-hong-kong-240656/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Activists descended on key subway stations during the morning rush hour, deliberately keeping open doors to stop trains departing, causing long queues and triggering occasional scuffles between angry commuters and protesters.&nbsp;

When contacted, an airport spokesman did not give any reason for the cancellations but said passengers should check to see if their flight was departing.&nbsp;

"The Airport Authority advises passengers to check with their airlines for the latest flight information, and to proceed to the airport only when their seats and flight time have been confirmed," the airport said in a statement.&nbsp;

The office of city leader Carrie Lam -- who has kept a low public profile as the protests have escalated -- announced she would hold a press conference later Monday morning.&nbsp;

Over the weekend riot police fired tear gas at protesters in multiple districts throughout Saturday and Sunday night.

The largely leaderless protest movement uses social messaging apps to coordinate.

At a press conference on Saturday, strike organisers -- many hiding their identities behind masks -- said 14,000 people from more than 20 sectors had committed to civic action on Monday.

People from all walks of life indicated plans online to either strike or phone in sick on Monday -- from civil servants and social workers, to flight attendants, pilots, bus drivers and even employees of the city's Disneyland.

More than 100 flights were cancelled in Hong Kong on Monday morning with airport authorities warning passengers of potential disruption, as pro-democracy protesters kick off a city-wide strike.

More than 100 flights were cancelled in Hong Kong on Monday morning with airport authorities warning passengers of potential disruption, as pro-democracy protesters kick off a city-wide strike. At least 105 flights were listed as cancelled on the airport's departure page on Monday morning. Peak-hour morning train travel and international flights in Hong Kong were thrown into chaos as pro-democracy protesters launched an attempted city-wide strike to ramp up pressure on the financial hub's embattled leaders. Activists descended on key subway stations during the morning rush hour, deliberately keeping open doors to stop trains departing, causing long queues and triggering occasional scuffles between angry commuters and protesters. When contacted, an airport spokesman did not give any reason for the cancellations but said passengers should check to see if their flight was departing. "The Airport Authority advises passengers to check with their airlines for the latest flight information, and to proceed to the airport only when their seats and flight time have been confirmed," the airport said in a statement. The office of city leader Carrie Lam -- who has kept a low public profile as the protests have escalated -- announced she would hold a press conference later Monday morning. Over the weekend riot police fired tear gas at protesters in multiple districts throughout Saturday and Sunday night. The largely leaderless protest movement uses social messaging apps to coordinate. At a press conference on Saturday, strike organisers -- many hiding their identities behind masks -- said 14,000 people from more than 20 sectors had committed to civic action on Monday. People from all walks of life indicated plans online to either strike or phone in sick on Monday -- from civil servants and social workers, to flight attendants, pilots, bus drivers and even employees of the city's Disneyland.

Over 100 flights cancelled as Hong Kong protesters launch city-wide strike

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

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

Hong Kong: 9th straight weekend of protests

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

9th straight weekend of pro democracy protests in Hong Kong

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WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 7th, 2019

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WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 5th, 2019

Over 100 flights cancelled as Hong Kong protesters launch city-wide strike

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

Hong Kong: 9th straight weekend of protests

9th straight weekend of pro democracy protests in Hong Kong