Carrie Lam vowed to heal divisions and listen to the city's youth when she became Hong Kong's leader, promises that lie in tatters after tear gas and pepper spray sent them running for cover when they dared raise their voice.&nbsp;

The 62-year-old devout Catholic took over in March 2017 when a committee stacked with Beijing loyalists voted her into office -- the first time a woman had been elevated to the international finance hub's top job.

In her acceptance speech, she vowed to be more responsive to the city's youngsters, a restless demographic at the forefront of recent calls for greater democratic freedoms and measures to combat rising inequality.

"Hong Kong, our home, is suffering from quite a serious divisiveness and has accumulated a lot of frustrations," she said in her acceptance speech. "My priority will be to heal the divide."&nbsp;

Two years on and Hong Kong has been convulsed by its largest mass rally followed by the worst political violence in decades.

The spark that lit these flames was a push by Lam's government to fast track a bill allowing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-why-proposed-changes-to-hong-kongs-extradition-law-are-fuelling-protests-227269">extraditions</a> to mainland China.

But the protests are also the latest explosion of an anger building for years over how the city is run by its pro-Beijing administrators.

When she took office, Lam was already loathed by the city's pro-democracy camp because she had been deputy to her deeply unpopular predecessor, CY Leung, during the failed 2014 Umbrella Movement protests.

She was widely tipped as Beijing's preferred candidate to replace him and easily saw off her rivals.

Low ratings

The rhetoric of Hong Kong's political scene is often unforgiving and Lam has long faced unflattering -- and often misogynistic -- insults.

One of her nicknames -- a pun on her family name -- was "lai-ma" or wet nurse, a jibe over what her opponents said was a fawning loyalty towards her former boss Leung.

After her appointment, she was quickly dubbed "777" by detractors.&nbsp;

That nickname is a reference to the number of votes she secured in the 1,194 strong committee that chooses Hong Kong's leader -- but in Cantonese, the word for seven also sounds very close to a slang term for male genitalia.

Lam has struggled with low approval ratings for much of her term.

The latest poll by the University of Hong Kong -- taken before both this week’s violence and Sunday’s record anti-extradition march -- showed her with an approval rating of 32 per cent and a disapproval rate of 57 per cent.

None of her three post-handover predecessors had ratings that low two years into their tenures -- although Leung had hit a lower point at 17 months.

'Personal sacrifices'

Born into a low-income family, Lam stood out at her Catholic school and later attended Cambridge University on government funding.

She began her career in the colonial civil service and rose up the ranks in the post-handover period, earning herself a reputation for being a fighter and a committed Beijing loyalist.

During the 2014 pro-democracy protests, she was often the face of the government, debating student leaders and insisting their demand to directly elect the city’s leader would not be met.

When she won the top job three years later she said she hoped to leave the political rancour of that period behind.&nbsp;

During a debate with the rivals, she beat for the job she vowed to be responsive to public opinion.&nbsp;

"If mainstream opinion makes me no longer able to continue the job as chief executive, I’ll resign," she declared.

Lam is not known for showing emotion but in an interview filmed Wednesday morning, before the violence erupted, she broke down as she talked about the personal toll of being a leader.

"My love for this place has led me to make a number of sacrifices," she said, tears welling up as she rejected suggestions she had "sold out" her city.

Later that evening -- as battles between police and protesters continued -- &nbsp;her office put out a new video statement and the steely resolve was back.

"It's obvious that these are not peaceful rallies, but openly organised riots," she said.

But as the week progressed, pressure built on her administration, with even political allies and advisors telling her to shelve the bill to calm public anger.

On Saturday afternoon, she did just that, announcing the bill would be suspended and issuing a mea culpa that she had misjudged the public mood.&nbsp;

She did not, however, offer to resign.&nbsp;

Carrie Lam vowed to heal divisions and listen to the city's youth when she became Hong Kong's leader, promises that lie in tatters after tear gas and pepper spray sent them running for cover when they dared raise their voice.

Carrie Lam vowed to heal divisions and listen to the city's youth when she became Hong Kong's leader, promises that lie in tatters after tear gas and pepper spray sent them running for cover when they dared raise their voice. The 62-year-old devout Catholic took over in March 2017 when a committee stacked with Beijing loyalists voted her into office -- the first time a woman had been elevated to the international finance hub's top job. In her acceptance speech, she vowed to be more responsive to the city's youngsters, a restless demographic at the forefront of recent calls for greater democratic freedoms and measures to combat rising inequality. "Hong Kong, our home, is suffering from quite a serious divisiveness and has accumulated a lot of frustrations," she said in her acceptance speech. "My priority will be to heal the divide." Two years on and Hong Kong has been convulsed by its largest mass rally followed by the worst political violence in decades. The spark that lit these flames was a push by Lam's government to fast track a bill allowing extraditions to mainland China. But the protests are also the latest explosion of an anger building for years over how the city is run by its pro-Beijing administrators. When she took office, Lam was already loathed by the city's pro-democracy camp because she had been deputy to her deeply unpopular predecessor, CY Leung, during the failed 2014 Umbrella Movement protests. She was widely tipped as Beijing's preferred candidate to replace him and easily saw off her rivals. Low ratings The rhetoric of Hong Kong's political scene is often unforgiving and Lam has long faced unflattering -- and often misogynistic -- insults. One of her nicknames -- a pun on her family name -- was "lai-ma" or wet nurse, a jibe over what her opponents said was a fawning loyalty towards her former boss Leung. After her appointment, she was quickly dubbed "777" by detractors. That nickname is a reference to the number of votes she secured in the 1,194 strong committee that chooses Hong Kong's leader -- but in Cantonese, the word for seven also sounds very close to a slang term for male genitalia. Lam has struggled with low approval ratings for much of her term. The latest poll by the University of Hong Kong -- taken before both this week’s violence and Sunday’s record anti-extradition march -- showed her with an approval rating of 32 per cent and a disapproval rate of 57 per cent. None of her three post-handover predecessors had ratings that low two years into their tenures -- although Leung had hit a lower point at 17 months. 'Personal sacrifices' Born into a low-income family, Lam stood out at her Catholic school and later attended Cambridge University on government funding. She began her career in the colonial civil service and rose up the ranks in the post-handover period, earning herself a reputation for being a fighter and a committed Beijing loyalist. During the 2014 pro-democracy protests, she was often the face of the government, debating student leaders and insisting their demand to directly elect the city’s leader would not be met. When she won the top job three years later she said she hoped to leave the political rancour of that period behind. During a debate with the rivals, she beat for the job she vowed to be responsive to public opinion. "If mainstream opinion makes me no longer able to continue the job as chief executive, I’ll resign," she declared. Lam is not known for showing emotion but in an interview filmed Wednesday morning, before the violence erupted, she broke down as she talked about the personal toll of being a leader. "My love for this place has led me to make a number of sacrifices," she said, tears welling up as she rejected suggestions she had "sold out" her city. Later that evening -- as battles between police and protesters continued -- her office put out a new video statement and the steely resolve was back. "It's obvious that these are not peaceful rallies, but openly organised riots," she said. But as the week progressed, pressure built on her administration, with even political allies and advisors telling her to shelve the bill to calm public anger. On Saturday afternoon, she did just that, announcing the bill would be suspended and issuing a mea culpa that she had misjudged the public mood. She did not, however, offer to resign.

Carrie Lam: Hong Kong's divisive, pro-Beijing leader

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam in a press conference on Saturday afternoon announced that China extradition bill is suspended. Watch this video to know more.

A big win for Hong Kong's protesters

Hong Kong suspends proposed extradition bill

Following huge&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-is-watching-hong-kong-protests-joe-biden-warns-china-227245">protest </a>against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-why-proposed-changes-to-hong-kongs-extradition-law-are-fuelling-protests-227269">controversial extradition bill</a>, Hong Kong on Saturday decided to suspend the law which proposed on extradition to mainland China.

Addressing a press conference on Saturday, Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam said, "divisive extradition law will be suspended".

"The government has decided to suspend the legislative amendment exercise," Lam told reporters.

"The council will halt its work in relation to the bill until our working communication explanation and listening to opinions is completed," she said. "We have no intention to set a deadline for this work., " she added.

Support for the extradition bill began to crumble on Friday with several pro-Beijing politicians and a senior advisor to Lam saying discussion of the bill should be shelved for the time being.

The international finance hub was rocked by the worst political violence since its 1997 handover to China on Wednesday as tens of thousands of protesters were dispersed by riot police firing tear gas and rubber bullets.

Three days earlier record crowds held a record-breaking rally in which organisers said more than a million people hit the streets calling for the law to be scrapped.

As criticism mounted, Lam found herself under pressure to backtrack, even from within her own political camp and advisors.

She said the extradition law was needed to plug loopholes and stop the international finance hub being a haven for criminals but admitted her administration had underestimated the public backlash.&nbsp;

"I feel deep sorrow and regret that the deficiencies in our work and various other factors have stirred up substantial controversies and disputes in society following the relatively calm periods of the past two years," she said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP) 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Following huge protest against the controversial extradition bill, Hong Kong on Saturday decided to suspend the law which proposed on extradition to mainland China.

Following huge protest against the controversial extradition bill, Hong Kong on Saturday decided to suspend the law which proposed on extradition to mainland China. Addressing a press conference on Saturday, Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam said, "divisive extradition law will be suspended". "The government has decided to suspend the legislative amendment exercise," Lam told reporters. "The council will halt its work in relation to the bill until our working communication explanation and listening to opinions is completed," she said. "We have no intention to set a deadline for this work., " she added. Support for the extradition bill began to crumble on Friday with several pro-Beijing politicians and a senior advisor to Lam saying discussion of the bill should be shelved for the time being. The international finance hub was rocked by the worst political violence since its 1997 handover to China on Wednesday as tens of thousands of protesters were dispersed by riot police firing tear gas and rubber bullets. Three days earlier record crowds held a record-breaking rally in which organisers said more than a million people hit the streets calling for the law to be scrapped. As criticism mounted, Lam found herself under pressure to backtrack, even from within her own political camp and advisors. She said the extradition law was needed to plug loopholes and stop the international finance hub being a haven for criminals but admitted her administration had underestimated the public backlash. "I feel deep sorrow and regret that the deficiencies in our work and various other factors have stirred up substantial controversies and disputes in society following the relatively calm periods of the past two years," she said. (With inputs from AFP)

Hong Kong leader says divisive extradition law will be 'suspended'

Cracks have appeared in the support base for a proposed Hong Kong law to allow extraditions to China, with local media reporting the city`s government will suspend the bill after widespread anger and violent protests.&nbsp;

The extradition bill, which would cover Hong Kong`s 7 million residents and foreign and Chinese nationals living or travelling in the city, has many concerned it may threaten the rule of law that underpins Hong Kong`s international financial status.

What does the extradition bill involve?

The Hong Kong government first launched the proposals in February, putting forward sweeping changes that would simplify case-by-case extraditions of criminal suspects to countries beyond the 20 with which Hong Kong has existing extradition treaties.

It explicitly allows extraditions from Hong Kong to greater China - including the mainland, Taiwan and Macau - for the first time, closing what Hong Kong government officials have repeatedly described as a "loophole" that they claim has allowed the city to become a haven for criminals from the mainland.

Hong Kong`s leader would start and finally approve extradition following a request from a foreign jurisdiction but only after court hearings, including any possible appeals. However, the bill removes Legislative Council oversight of extradition arrangements.

If the bill becomes law, it will be possible for mainland Chinese courts to request Hong Kong courts to freeze and confiscate assets related to crimes committed on the mainland, beyond an existing provision covering the proceeds of drug offences.

Why is the Hong Kong government pushing it now?

Officials initially seized on the murder last year of a young Hong Kong woman holidaying in Taiwan to justify swift changes. Police say her boyfriend confessed on his return to Hong Kong and he is now in jail on lesser money-laundering charges.

Taiwan authorities have strongly opposed the bill, which they say could leave Taiwanese citizens exposed in Hong Kong and have vowed to refuse taking back the murder suspect if the bill is passed.

A long-forgotten issue, the need for an eventual extradition deal with the mainland was acknowledged by government officials and experts ahead of Hong Kong`s handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997 under the "one country, two systems" model.

The city maintains a separate and independent legal system as part of the broader freedoms the formula guarantees. Little progress has been made in discreet talks since then with justice and security officials on the mainland, where the Communist Party still controls the courts.

How strong is opposition to the bill?

Concern about the amendments has spiralled in recent weeks, taking in pro-business and pro-Beijing elements usually loath to publicly contradict the Hong Kong or Chinese governments. Senior Hong Kong judges have privately expressed alarm, and mainland commercial lawyers based in Hong Kong have echoed their fears, saying the mainland system cannot be trusted to meet even basic standards of judicial fairness. Hong Kong lawyers` groups have issued detailed submissions to the government, hoping to force a postponement.

Authorities have repeatedly stressed that judges will serve as "gatekeepers" or guardians for extradition requests. However, some judges say privately that China`s increasingly close relationship with Hong Kong and the limited scope of extradition hearings will leave them exposed to criticism and political pressure from Beijing.&nbsp;

Schools, lawyers and church groups have joined human rights groups to protest against the measures. Following a brawl in the legislature over the bill, the government moved to fast-track the bill by scrapping established legislative procedures that stoked outrage amongst critics.&nbsp;

Foreign political and diplomatic pressure over human rights concerns is rising, too. As well as recent statements from US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and his British and German counterparts, some 11 European Union envoys met Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam to protest formally.

"It`s a proposal, or a set of proposals, which strike a terrible blow ... against the rule of law, against Hong Kong`s stability and security, against Hong Kong`s position as a great international trading hub," Hong Kong`s last British governor, Chris Patten, said on Thursday.

Some opposition politicians say the issue now represents a turning point for the city`s free status.&nbsp;

Will the government drop the bill?

While Lam and her key officials have been strident in defending the bill both publicly and privately, cracks have began to appear in the support base for the law.

Several pro-Beijing politicians and a senior advisor to Lam said discussion of the bill should be shelved for the time being.

Lam has insisted that broad safeguards mean that anyone at risk of political or religious persecution or who faces torture would not be extradited. Likewise, no one who faces the death penalty would be extradited. China denies accusations of human rights abuses.

Cracks have appeared in the support base for a proposed Hong Kong law to allow extraditions to China, with local media reporting the city`s government will suspend the bill after widespread anger and violent protests.

Cracks have appeared in the support base for a proposed Hong Kong law to allow extraditions to China, with local media reporting the city`s government will suspend the bill after widespread anger and violent protests. The extradition bill, which would cover Hong Kong`s 7 million residents and foreign and Chinese nationals living or travelling in the city, has many concerned it may threaten the rule of law that underpins Hong Kong`s international financial status. What does the extradition bill involve? The Hong Kong government first launched the proposals in February, putting forward sweeping changes that would simplify case-by-case extraditions of criminal suspects to countries beyond the 20 with which Hong Kong has existing extradition treaties. It explicitly allows extraditions from Hong Kong to greater China - including the mainland, Taiwan and Macau - for the first time, closing what Hong Kong government officials have repeatedly described as a "loophole" that they claim has allowed the city to become a haven for criminals from the mainland. Hong Kong`s leader would start and finally approve extradition following a request from a foreign jurisdiction but only after court hearings, including any possible appeals. However, the bill removes Legislative Council oversight of extradition arrangements. If the bill becomes law, it will be possible for mainland Chinese courts to request Hong Kong courts to freeze and confiscate assets related to crimes committed on the mainland, beyond an existing provision covering the proceeds of drug offences. Why is the Hong Kong government pushing it now? Officials initially seized on the murder last year of a young Hong Kong woman holidaying in Taiwan to justify swift changes. Police say her boyfriend confessed on his return to Hong Kong and he is now in jail on lesser money-laundering charges. Taiwan authorities have strongly opposed the bill, which they say could leave Taiwanese citizens exposed in Hong Kong and have vowed to refuse taking back the murder suspect if the bill is passed. A long-forgotten issue, the need for an eventual extradition deal with the mainland was acknowledged by government officials and experts ahead of Hong Kong`s handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997 under the "one country, two systems" model. The city maintains a separate and independent legal system as part of the broader freedoms the formula guarantees. Little progress has been made in discreet talks since then with justice and security officials on the mainland, where the Communist Party still controls the courts. How strong is opposition to the bill? Concern about the amendments has spiralled in recent weeks, taking in pro-business and pro-Beijing elements usually loath to publicly contradict the Hong Kong or Chinese governments. Senior Hong Kong judges have privately expressed alarm, and mainland commercial lawyers based in Hong Kong have echoed their fears, saying the mainland system cannot be trusted to meet even basic standards of judicial fairness. Hong Kong lawyers` groups have issued detailed submissions to the government, hoping to force a postponement. Authorities have repeatedly stressed that judges will serve as "gatekeepers" or guardians for extradition requests. However, some judges say privately that China`s increasingly close relationship with Hong Kong and the limited scope of extradition hearings will leave them exposed to criticism and political pressure from Beijing. Schools, lawyers and church groups have joined human rights groups to protest against the measures. Following a brawl in the legislature over the bill, the government moved to fast-track the bill by scrapping established legislative procedures that stoked outrage amongst critics. Foreign political and diplomatic pressure over human rights concerns is rising, too. As well as recent statements from US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and his British and German counterparts, some 11 European Union envoys met Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam to protest formally. "It`s a proposal, or a set of proposals, which strike a terrible blow ... against the rule of law, against Hong Kong`s stability and security, against Hong Kong`s position as a great international trading hub," Hong Kong`s last British governor, Chris Patten, said on Thursday. Some opposition politicians say the issue now represents a turning point for the city`s free status. Will the government drop the bill? While Lam and her key officials have been strident in defending the bill both publicly and privately, cracks have began to appear in the support base for the law. Several pro-Beijing politicians and a senior advisor to Lam said discussion of the bill should be shelved for the time being. Lam has insisted that broad safeguards mean that anyone at risk of political or religious persecution or who faces torture would not be extradited. Likewise, no one who faces the death penalty would be extradited. China denies accusations of human rights abuses.

Explainer: Why proposed changes to Hong Kong's extradition law fuelling protests

The Hong Kong government's move to allow extraditions to mainland China had&nbsp;sparked the biggest demonstrations since the former British colony was handed back to China in 1997.

Under the handover deal, Hong Kong benefits from a "One Country, Two Systems" policy that allows it to retain certain key liberties, such as freedom of speech and an independent judiciary, until 2047.

A push for democratic reforms saw unprecedented street protests in 2014, with demands for change reignited in February this year, leading to the worst political violence in the financial hub since 1997.

Here is an overview.

- 2003: National security law -

Some half a million people marched against a controversial attempt by the government to introduce a national security law that critics feared would hammer free speech.&nbsp;

The bill, which came after a deadly outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome, was the first mass demonstration movement the city's pro-Beijing leaders had faced since the 1997 handover.

It was eventually shelved and set in process the resignation of then chief executive Tung Chee-hwa.

- 2012: Education protests -

Tens of thousands of predominantly young demonstrators, many of them school children, surrounded the city government's complex for 10 days.&nbsp;

The target of their ire was a government order for schools to teach "Moral and National Education" classes that praised China's communist and nationalist history while criticising republicanism and democracy movements.&nbsp;

The government abandoned the curriculum and some of the protest leaders, such as then 15-year-old Joshua Wong, went on to become leading democracy advocates.

- 2014: Umbrella Movement -

For two months in late 2014 tens of thousands of protesters paralysed parts of the city with mass student-led demonstrations and sit-ins to demand democratic reforms such as the right to elect the city's leader.

There were clashes and scenes of violence, until then rare in the semi-autonomous territory, as police used pepper spray and tear gas to break up the demonstrations.

It becomes known as the Umbrella Movement after some demonstrators used umbrellas to protect themselves.

Police dismantled the main pro-democracy site in December, hauling off a hard core of protesters who vowed that their struggle would live on.&nbsp;

But the movement failed to win any concessions and many of its leaders are now in prison.&nbsp;

- 2019: Extradition anger -

In February 2019 Hong Kong's government announced plans for a bill that would allow, for the first time, extraditions to mainland China.

The move was prompted by a murder but the opposition and lawyers fear such a law would tighten Beijing's grip on civil society and allow it to pursue its political enemies in Hong Kong.

Tens of thousands of people hit Hong Kong's streets in protest on April 28 in one of the biggest demonstrations since the Umbrella Movement.

It came just days after four prominent democratic leaders were jailed for their role in organising the 2014 protests.

Hong Kong's government made concessions on May 30, saying the extradition law would only apply to cases involving a potential jail term of at least seven years.

Britain and Canada raised concerns that expatriates living and working in Hong Kong, an international business hub, could also face extradition.

- Protests grow -

On June 4, tens of thousands of Hong Kongers, fearful for their own liberties, commemorated 30 years since China's bloody Tiananmen crackdown on pro-democracy protests.&nbsp;

Such commemorations are not allowed in mainland China.

Two days later, thousands of Hong Kong lawyers marched in silence against the draft extradition law.

On June 9, more than one million people, according to organisers, took to the streets for seven hours in the biggest demonstration by far since the return to Chinese rule.&nbsp;

The police, who made 19 arrests, put the turnout at 240,000.

On June 12, a scheduled second reading of the controversial bill was delayed after huge crowds rally, blocking major roads and attempting to storm parliament.

Police used tear gas, pepper spray, rubber bullets and bean bag rounds -- small fabric bags filled with lead pellets -- on the demonstrators, most of them young people and students.

They were the worst clashes since the 1997 handover, leaving nearly 80 people injured, two in a serious condition.

More than 100 businesses and shops had shut down in support of the movement.

Beijing described the protests as "riots", and said it supports the local government's response.

The Hong Kong government's move to allow extraditions to mainland China had sparked the biggest demonstrations since the former British colony was handed back to China in 1997.

The Hong Kong government's move to allow extraditions to mainland China had sparked the biggest demonstrations since the former British colony was handed back to China in 1997. Under the handover deal, Hong Kong benefits from a "One Country, Two Systems" policy that allows it to retain certain key liberties, such as freedom of speech and an independent judiciary, until 2047. A push for democratic reforms saw unprecedented street protests in 2014, with demands for change reignited in February this year, leading to the worst political violence in the financial hub since 1997. Here is an overview. - 2003: National security law - Some half a million people marched against a controversial attempt by the government to introduce a national security law that critics feared would hammer free speech. The bill, which came after a deadly outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome, was the first mass demonstration movement the city's pro-Beijing leaders had faced since the 1997 handover. It was eventually shelved and set in process the resignation of then chief executive Tung Chee-hwa. - 2012: Education protests - Tens of thousands of predominantly young demonstrators, many of them school children, surrounded the city government's complex for 10 days. The target of their ire was a government order for schools to teach "Moral and National Education" classes that praised China's communist and nationalist history while criticising republicanism and democracy movements. The government abandoned the curriculum and some of the protest leaders, such as then 15-year-old Joshua Wong, went on to become leading democracy advocates. - 2014: Umbrella Movement - For two months in late 2014 tens of thousands of protesters paralysed parts of the city with mass student-led demonstrations and sit-ins to demand democratic reforms such as the right to elect the city's leader. There were clashes and scenes of violence, until then rare in the semi-autonomous territory, as police used pepper spray and tear gas to break up the demonstrations. It becomes known as the Umbrella Movement after some demonstrators used umbrellas to protect themselves. Police dismantled the main pro-democracy site in December, hauling off a hard core of protesters who vowed that their struggle would live on. But the movement failed to win any concessions and many of its leaders are now in prison. - 2019: Extradition anger - In February 2019 Hong Kong's government announced plans for a bill that would allow, for the first time, extraditions to mainland China. The move was prompted by a murder but the opposition and lawyers fear such a law would tighten Beijing's grip on civil society and allow it to pursue its political enemies in Hong Kong. Tens of thousands of people hit Hong Kong's streets in protest on April 28 in one of the biggest demonstrations since the Umbrella Movement. It came just days after four prominent democratic leaders were jailed for their role in organising the 2014 protests. Hong Kong's government made concessions on May 30, saying the extradition law would only apply to cases involving a potential jail term of at least seven years. Britain and Canada raised concerns that expatriates living and working in Hong Kong, an international business hub, could also face extradition. - Protests grow - On June 4, tens of thousands of Hong Kongers, fearful for their own liberties, commemorated 30 years since China's bloody Tiananmen crackdown on pro-democracy protests. Such commemorations are not allowed in mainland China. Two days later, thousands of Hong Kong lawyers marched in silence against the draft extradition law. On June 9, more than one million people, according to organisers, took to the streets for seven hours in the biggest demonstration by far since the return to Chinese rule. The police, who made 19 arrests, put the turnout at 240,000. On June 12, a scheduled second reading of the controversial bill was delayed after huge crowds rally, blocking major roads and attempting to storm parliament. Police used tear gas, pepper spray, rubber bullets and bean bag rounds -- small fabric bags filled with lead pellets -- on the demonstrators, most of them young people and students. They were the worst clashes since the 1997 handover, leaving nearly 80 people injured, two in a serious condition. More than 100 businesses and shops had shut down in support of the movement. Beijing described the protests as "riots", and said it supports the local government's response.

High points of Hong Kong's huge protests

Violence Erupts In Hong Kong: China Backs The Hong Kong Government, Calls Protests 'Riots'. After Government's Decision To Pass The Controversial Extradition Bill, Hong Kong Is Facing Persistent Protests And Violence. A Million Protesters Are On The Roads. But China Backs The Hong Kong Government, Arrests Workers Of The Popular Messaging App Telegram. What's The Situation On The Ground In Hong Kong? And What's The Reason For China's Stance?

Gravitas: Violence erupts in Hong Kong again: Protests put China on the defensive

Hong Kong social media lit up on Friday when protesters noticed Google's translation software was briefly churning out a rather odd suggestion during a week that has seen the worst political violence to hit the city in decades.

Eagle-eyed Google users discovered that when people entered the phrase "I am sad to see Hong Kong become part of China" the suggested translation in both Simplified and Traditional Chinese converted the word "sad" to "happy".

"Oh my god, I can't believe my eyes," one Facebook user commented under one of the many screen grabs of the false translation that went viral on Friday.&nbsp;

"The app intentionally mistranslates the English to 'so happy/content' instead of 'so sad'," added student Rachel Wong on Twitter. "I hope Google fixes this."

When AFP entered the sentence "I am sad to see Hong Kong become part of China" on Friday morning it did show the wrong translation, replacing sad with happy.&nbsp;

Searches involving some other combinations of countries or territories also reproduced the error.

An hour later, a correct translation was showing.

The company's hugely popular software tool uses complex algorithms and deep learning, as well as allowing users to make suggested translations to&nbsp; 
improve accuracy.

"Google Translate is an automatic translator, using patterns from millions of existing translations to help decide on the best translation for you," a spokesman for Google told.&nbsp;

"These automatic systems can sometimes make unintentional mistakes like translating a negative to a positive."

The international finance hub has been rocked this week by political violence as protesters opposed to a proposed China extradition law clashed with police.

On Thursday, the popular encrypted messaging app telegram, which is being used by protesters to coordinate, announced it had suffered a major cyber-attack that originated from China.

Hong Kong social media lit up on Friday when protesters noticed Google's translation software was briefly churning out a rather odd suggestion during a week that has seen the worst political violence to hit the city in decades.

Hong Kong social media lit up on Friday when protesters noticed Google's translation software was briefly churning out a rather odd suggestion during a week that has seen the worst political violence to hit the city in decades. Eagle-eyed Google users discovered that when people entered the phrase "I am sad to see Hong Kong become part of China" the suggested translation in both Simplified and Traditional Chinese converted the word "sad" to "happy". "Oh my god, I can't believe my eyes," one Facebook user commented under one of the many screen grabs of the false translation that went viral on Friday. "The app intentionally mistranslates the English to 'so happy/content' instead of 'so sad'," added student Rachel Wong on Twitter. "I hope Google fixes this." When AFP entered the sentence "I am sad to see Hong Kong become part of China" on Friday morning it did show the wrong translation, replacing sad with happy. Searches involving some other combinations of countries or territories also reproduced the error. An hour later, a correct translation was showing. The company's hugely popular software tool uses complex algorithms and deep learning, as well as allowing users to make suggested translations to improve accuracy. "Google Translate is an automatic translator, using patterns from millions of existing translations to help decide on the best translation for you," a spokesman for Google told. "These automatic systems can sometimes make unintentional mistakes like translating a negative to a positive." The international finance hub has been rocked this week by political violence as protesters opposed to a proposed China extradition law clashed with police. On Thursday, the popular encrypted messaging app telegram, which is being used by protesters to coordinate, announced it had suffered a major cyber-attack that originated from China.

Hong Kongers alarmed by Google translation gaffe

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 - June 13th, 2019

Protests Over The Controversial Extradition Bill Bring Hong Kong To A Standstill. What Does It Mean When Lawmakers Couldn't Reach The Parliament To Vote On A Controversial Bill? That's The Extent Of Chaos In Hong Kong. The Government Says That The Extradition Bill Will Prevent Hong Kong From Becoming A Safe Haven For Criminals. But The Backlash From People Has Intensified.

Gravitas: Hong Kong Descends Into Violent Chaos

Police fire tear gas from above as protesters gather in Hong Kong Protesters in Hong Kong can be seen retreating from Harcourt Road while police stand guard on a distant overpass while firing tear gas into the crowd today (June 12). The filmer said the police were discharging tear gas "every two to five minutes."

Police fire tear gas from above as protesters gather in Hong Kong

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eye-on-china-us-government-seeks-more-funding-from-congress-to-bolster-bay-of-bengal-military-security-226703">Eye on China: US government seeks more funding from Congress to bolster Bay of Bengal military security</a>

With an eye on countering increasing Chinese influence in key&nbsp;South Asian countries, the Trump administration has sought $30 million for what it has described as "Bay of Bengal" security initiative to provide foreign military financing to Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and the Maldives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-defence-budget-unchanged-says-minister-documents-show-45-increase-226697">Pakistan's defence budget 'unchanged', says minister; documents show 4.5% increase</a>

The Pakistan government claimed that its defence budget was kept unchanged at Rs 1,152,535 million&nbsp;for next fiscal (2019-20), but the official documents showed that there was nominal increase of 4.5 per cent in the defence expenditure as compared to the last year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-need-to-overcome-mistakes-to-beat-india-says-sarfaraz-after-australia-defeat-226683">We need to overcome mistakes to beat India, says Sarfaraz after Australia defeat</a>

Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed said his side's needs to raise their fielding standards ahead of a crucial World Cup match against arch-rivals India at Old Trafford on Sunday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-state-media-blames-hong-kong-protests-on-lawlessness-226680">China state media blames Hong Kong protests on 'lawlessness'</a>

Protests in Hong Kong&nbsp;over planned new extradition laws with China are "hammering" the city`s reputation, with outbreaks of "lawlessness" undermining rule of law, Chinese state media said in editorials published on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modi-hai-to-mumkin-hai-says-pompeo-ahead-of-india-visit-226682">Modi 'hai to mumkin hai', says Pompeo ahead of India visit</a>

Citing the popular election slogan "Modi hai to mumkin hai", US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has sought to take the bilateral relationship with India to the next level and said the Trump and Modi administrations have a "unique opportunity" to make it happen.

Eye on China: US government seeks more funding from Congress to bolster Bay of Bengal military security With an eye on countering increasing Chinese influence in key South Asian countries, the Trump administration has sought $30 million for what it has described as "Bay of Bengal" security initiative to provide foreign military financing to Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and the Maldives.

Eye on China: US government seeks more funding from Congress to bolster Bay of Bengal military security With an eye on countering increasing Chinese influence in key South Asian countries, the Trump administration has sought $30 million for what it has described as "Bay of Bengal" security initiative to provide foreign military financing to Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and the Maldives. Pakistan's defence budget 'unchanged', says minister; documents show 4.5% increase The Pakistan government claimed that its defence budget was kept unchanged at Rs 1,152,535 million for next fiscal (2019-20), but the official documents showed that there was nominal increase of 4.5 per cent in the defence expenditure as compared to the last year. We need to overcome mistakes to beat India, says Sarfaraz after Australia defeat Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed said his side's needs to raise their fielding standards ahead of a crucial World Cup match against arch-rivals India at Old Trafford on Sunday. China state media blames Hong Kong protests on 'lawlessness' Protests in Hong Kong over planned new extradition laws with China are "hammering" the city`s reputation, with outbreaks of "lawlessness" undermining rule of law, Chinese state media said in editorials published on Thursday. Modi 'hai to mumkin hai', says Pompeo ahead of India visit Citing the popular election slogan "Modi hai to mumkin hai", US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has sought to take the bilateral relationship with India to the next level and said the Trump and Modi administrations have a "unique opportunity" to make it happen.

News brief: Big stories of the day

President Donald Trump said Wednesday he understands <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-state-media-blames-hong-kong-protests-on-lawlessness-226680">Hong Kong protesters</a> who have risen up against plans to allow extraditions to China, but hopes they can "work it out" with Beijing.

"I hope they're going to be able to work it out with China," Trump told reporters at the White House, as Hong Kong was rocked by the worst political violence since its handover to China.

"I understand the reason for the demonstration," he said. "I hope it all works out for China and for Hong Kong."

Trump's cautious response to what he said were "massive" demonstrations came as Washington and Beijing try to pick up the pieces of their collapsed talks on resolving a trade war.

"We're doing very well with respect to China," Trump said, referring to huge trade tariffs imposed on Chinese imports.

Trump reiterated that he expects to meet President Xi Jinping at a G20 summit later this month.

"I have a feeling that we're going to make a deal with China," he said. 
&nbsp;

President Donald Trump said Wednesday he understands Hong Kong protesters who have risen up against plans to allow extraditions to China, but hopes they can "work it out" with Beijing.

President Donald Trump said Wednesday he understands Hong Kong protesters who have risen up against plans to allow extraditions to China, but hopes they can "work it out" with Beijing. "I hope they're going to be able to work it out with China," Trump told reporters at the White House, as Hong Kong was rocked by the worst political violence since its handover to China. "I understand the reason for the demonstration," he said. "I hope it all works out for China and for Hong Kong." Trump's cautious response to what he said were "massive" demonstrations came as Washington and Beijing try to pick up the pieces of their collapsed talks on resolving a trade war. "We're doing very well with respect to China," Trump said, referring to huge trade tariffs imposed on Chinese imports. Trump reiterated that he expects to meet President Xi Jinping at a G20 summit later this month. "I have a feeling that we're going to make a deal with China," he said.

Hope protesters in Hong Kong can work it out with China, says Trump

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-extradition-clashes-hong-kong-chief-executive-calls-protests-organised-riots-226609">Protests in Hong Kong </a>over planned new extradition laws with China are "hammering" the city`s reputation, with outbreaks of "lawlessness" undermining rule of law, Chinese state media said in editorials published on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-use-tear-gas-as-protesters-try-to-storm-parliament-226502">Hong Kong riot police</a> and protesters braced for possible further clashes on Thursday after a day of violence over the extradition bill that would allow people to be sent to mainland China for trial.

Police fired rubber bullets, tear gas and pepper spray in a series of skirmishes to clear demonstrators from around the city`s legislature. It was some of the worst violence in Hong Kong since Britain handed it back to Chinese rule in 1997.&nbsp;

The Hong Kong Hospital Authority said 72 people had been hospitalised by 10 p.m. on Wednesday.

The English-language China Daily said the new amendments were in line with international conventions but "the opposition camp and its foreign masters seem willing to oppose it for their own purposes at the expense of the city`s rule of law, public safety and justice."

"It is lawlessness that will hurt Hong Kong, not the proposed amendments to its fugitive law," it said.

Watch: Hong Kong Descends Into Violent Chaos

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hong-kong-descends-into-violent-chaos-226670/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The state-owned tabloid The Global Times blamed "radical opposition forces" and "the Western forces behind them" for hyping up and politicizing the amendments.

"Playing with uncontrolled street politics is to push Hong Kong to backwardness and disturbance," it said. "This is not a wise direction for Hong Kong."

Hong Kong has been rocked by three nights of violence since a protest on Sunday drew what organisers said was more than a million people.

Protests in Hong Kong over planned new extradition laws with China are "hammering" the city`s reputation, with outbreaks of "lawlessness" undermining rule of law, Chinese state media said in editorials published on Thursday.

Protests in Hong Kong over planned new extradition laws with China are "hammering" the city`s reputation, with outbreaks of "lawlessness" undermining rule of law, Chinese state media said in editorials published on Thursday. Hong Kong riot police and protesters braced for possible further clashes on Thursday after a day of violence over the extradition bill that would allow people to be sent to mainland China for trial. Police fired rubber bullets, tear gas and pepper spray in a series of skirmishes to clear demonstrators from around the city`s legislature. It was some of the worst violence in Hong Kong since Britain handed it back to Chinese rule in 1997. The Hong Kong Hospital Authority said 72 people had been hospitalised by 10 p.m. on Wednesday. The English-language China Daily said the new amendments were in line with international conventions but "the opposition camp and its foreign masters seem willing to oppose it for their own purposes at the expense of the city`s rule of law, public safety and justice." "It is lawlessness that will hurt Hong Kong, not the proposed amendments to its fugitive law," it said. Watch: Hong Kong Descends Into Violent Chaos × The state-owned tabloid The Global Times blamed "radical opposition forces" and "the Western forces behind them" for hyping up and politicizing the amendments. "Playing with uncontrolled street politics is to push Hong Kong to backwardness and disturbance," it said. "This is not a wise direction for Hong Kong." Hong Kong has been rocked by three nights of violence since a protest on Sunday drew what organisers said was more than a million people.

China state media blames Hong Kong protests on 'lawlessness'

Tens of thousands of protesters <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-block-roads-in-hong-kong-in-anti-china-demonstration-against-extradition-bill-226366">paralysed central Hong Kong</a> on Wednesday, blocking major roads in a defiant show of strength against government plans to allow extraditions to China.

Black-clad demonstrators, most of them young people and students, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-is-hong-kongs-china-extradition-plan-so-controversial-226044">surrounded government offices</a>, bringing traffic to a standstill as they called on authorities to scrap the Beijing-backed plan.

Rows of riot police were far outnumbered by protesters - many of whom wore face masks, helmets or goggles - just hours ahead of a scheduled debate in the city's legislature.

By late morning, with crowds continuing to swell, officials in the Legislative Council (Legco) said they would delay the second reading of the bill "to a later date".

In scenes echoing the Occupy movement in 2014 that shut down swathes of the city for months, people flooded major roads and junctions in the heart of the city, dragging barricades onto highways and tying them together. Some plucked loose bricks from pavements.

Police used water cannons and pepper spray on protesters outside the Legco building and held up signs warning demonstrators they were prepared to use force.

Organisers of a gigantic march on Sunday said more than a million people turned out to voice their objections to the proposed law, which would allow Hong Kong to send suspects to other jurisdictions around the world - including China.

But the record numbers have failed to sway pro-Beijing chief executive Carrie Lam, who has rejected calls to withdraw the bill.

Many opponents are fearful the law would entangle people in the mainland's opaque courts, leaving them vulnerable to a justice system seen as acting at the behest of the Chinese Communist Party.

More than 100 Hong Kong businesses said they would close Wednesday in a sign of solidarity with the protesters, and the city's major student unions announced they would boycott classes to attend the rallies.

A string of other prominent unions in the transport, social work and teaching sectors either followed suit or encouraged members to attend while a bus drivers' union said it would encourage members to drive deliberately slowly to support protests.

"It’s the government who has forced people to escalate their actions, so I think it's inevitable for the fight this time to get heated," said protestor Lau Ka-chun, 21.

Overnight, a group of around 2,000 protesters held a vigil outside the government offices, with some singing hymns.

Hardline protesters had on Sunday made similar plans to spend the night but were prevented by police, who fought running battles with small groups of demonstrators.

Throughout Tuesday evening, police flooded the area around the government offices, stopping and searching many young people as they arrived in the area.

Lawmakers were to debate the bill on Wednesday morning in the city's legislature, which is dominated by Beijing loyalists. A final vote is expected on June 20.

"The only responsible thing to do now is for Carrie Lam to withdraw the evil bill, or at least to shelve it in order to solve the crisis," said pro-democracy lawmaker Fernando Cheung.

"Because the situation is very tense, if she forces it through and asks the police to use violence, I’m afraid Hong Kong’s children will be hurt, will bleed."&nbsp;

Hong Kong's leaders say it is needed to plug loopholes and to stop the city being a sanctuary for fugitives, and that safeguards are in place to ensure that political critics of Beijing will not be targeted.

But many Hong Kongers have little faith in the government's assurances after years of heightened fears that a resurgent Beijing is trying to quash the city's unique freedoms and culture.

A 50-year agreement between Hong Kong's former colonial ruler, Britain, and China theoretically &nbsp;means the city is guaranteed freedoms of speech and assembly unseen on the Chinese mainland.

The pastor of a usually pro-government mega-church issued a statement saying he could not support the bill while the Catholic diocese urged Lam -- a devout Catholic -- to delay the bill.

Western governments have also voiced alarm, with the US this week warning the bill would put people at risk of "China's capricious judicial system".

Beijing hit back on Tuesday, with a foreign ministry official saying China "resolutely opposes interference in Hong Kong affairs".

Tens of thousands of protesters paralysed central Hong Kong on Wednesday, blocking major roads in a defiant show of strength against government plans to allow extraditions to China.

Tens of thousands of protesters paralysed central Hong Kong on Wednesday, blocking major roads in a defiant show of strength against government plans to allow extraditions to China. Black-clad demonstrators, most of them young people and students, surrounded government offices, bringing traffic to a standstill as they called on authorities to scrap the Beijing-backed plan. Rows of riot police were far outnumbered by protesters - many of whom wore face masks, helmets or goggles - just hours ahead of a scheduled debate in the city's legislature. By late morning, with crowds continuing to swell, officials in the Legislative Council (Legco) said they would delay the second reading of the bill "to a later date". In scenes echoing the Occupy movement in 2014 that shut down swathes of the city for months, people flooded major roads and junctions in the heart of the city, dragging barricades onto highways and tying them together. Some plucked loose bricks from pavements. Police used water cannons and pepper spray on protesters outside the Legco building and held up signs warning demonstrators they were prepared to use force. Organisers of a gigantic march on Sunday said more than a million people turned out to voice their objections to the proposed law, which would allow Hong Kong to send suspects to other jurisdictions around the world - including China. But the record numbers have failed to sway pro-Beijing chief executive Carrie Lam, who has rejected calls to withdraw the bill. Many opponents are fearful the law would entangle people in the mainland's opaque courts, leaving them vulnerable to a justice system seen as acting at the behest of the Chinese Communist Party. More than 100 Hong Kong businesses said they would close Wednesday in a sign of solidarity with the protesters, and the city's major student unions announced they would boycott classes to attend the rallies. A string of other prominent unions in the transport, social work and teaching sectors either followed suit or encouraged members to attend while a bus drivers' union said it would encourage members to drive deliberately slowly to support protests. "It’s the government who has forced people to escalate their actions, so I think it's inevitable for the fight this time to get heated," said protestor Lau Ka-chun, 21. Overnight, a group of around 2,000 protesters held a vigil outside the government offices, with some singing hymns. Hardline protesters had on Sunday made similar plans to spend the night but were prevented by police, who fought running battles with small groups of demonstrators. Throughout Tuesday evening, police flooded the area around the government offices, stopping and searching many young people as they arrived in the area. Lawmakers were to debate the bill on Wednesday morning in the city's legislature, which is dominated by Beijing loyalists. A final vote is expected on June 20. "The only responsible thing to do now is for Carrie Lam to withdraw the evil bill, or at least to shelve it in order to solve the crisis," said pro-democracy lawmaker Fernando Cheung. "Because the situation is very tense, if she forces it through and asks the police to use violence, I’m afraid Hong Kong’s children will be hurt, will bleed." Hong Kong's leaders say it is needed to plug loopholes and to stop the city being a sanctuary for fugitives, and that safeguards are in place to ensure that political critics of Beijing will not be targeted. But many Hong Kongers have little faith in the government's assurances after years of heightened fears that a resurgent Beijing is trying to quash the city's unique freedoms and culture. A 50-year agreement between Hong Kong's former colonial ruler, Britain, and China theoretically means the city is guaranteed freedoms of speech and assembly unseen on the Chinese mainland. The pastor of a usually pro-government mega-church issued a statement saying he could not support the bill while the Catholic diocese urged Lam -- a devout Catholic -- to delay the bill. Western governments have also voiced alarm, with the US this week warning the bill would put people at risk of "China's capricious judicial system". Beijing hit back on Tuesday, with a foreign ministry official saying China "resolutely opposes interference in Hong Kong affairs".

Hong Kong authorities delay debate on extradition bill after mass protests

Chaotic scenes erupted in Hong Kong on Wednesday as tens of thousands of demonstrators stormed key roads next to government offices to protest against a proposed extradition bill that would allow people to be sent to mainland China for trial.

Hong Kong anti-extradition protesters move barricades ahead of debate

Thousands of protesters blocked entry to Hong Kong's government headquarters Wednesday, delaying a legislative session on a proposed extradition bill that has heightened fears over greater Chinese control and erosion of civil liberties in the semi-autonomous territory.

Hong Kong government asks protesters to leave

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-block-roads-in-hong-kong-in-anti-china-demonstration-against-extradition-bill-226366">Protesters block roads in Hong Kong in anti-China demonstration against extradition bill</a>

Protesters have blocked two main highways in central&nbsp;Hong Kong in ralliesagainst a divisive government plan to allow extraditions to China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/envoy-says-sudan-talks-to-resume-as-strike-suspended-226368">Envoy says Sudan talks to resume as strike suspended</a>

Sudan`s military and&nbsp;opposition groups&nbsp;have agreed to resume talks on the formation of a transitional council, an Ethiopian envoy said on Tuesday, as an opposition alliance said it was suspending its campaign of civil disobedience and strikes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-vayu-thunderstorm-lightning-alert-issued-for-various-districts-of-gujarat-orange-warning-for-goa-226379">Cyclone Vayu: Thunderstorm, lightning alert issued for various districts of Gujarat;'orange' warning for Goa</a>

The Indian Meteorological Department has issued warnings of thunderstorm and lightning accompanied by gusty wind (40-50 kmph) at isolated places in the districts of North Gujarat region including Banaskantha and Sabarkantha for Wednesday and Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/life-imprisonment-for-mumbai-man-who-created-hijack-scare-on-jet-plane-226369">Life imprisonment for Mumbai man who created hijack scare on Jet plane</a>

In the first conviction under the amended anti-hijacking law, a special NIA court Tuesday awarded life term to a Mumbai-based businessman and also imposed a hefty Rs 5 crore fine for triggering a hijack scare on a Jet Airways plane in 2017.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistani-fans-love-cricket-they-wont-boo-steven-smith-captain-sarfaraz-ahmed-226376">Pakistani fans love cricket, they won't boo Steven Smith: Captain Sarfaraz Ahmed</a>

Sarfaraz Ahmed insists Pakistan fans won't boo shamed Australia star&nbsp;Steven Smith during their World Cup&nbsp;match in Taunton on Wednesday. Pakistan fans are expected to make up a large chunk of the crowd in the west country and there are fears they might follow the example of the India supporters who jeered Smith at the Oval on Sunday.

Protesters block roads in Hong Kong in anti-China demonstration against extradition bill Protesters have blocked two main highways in central Hong Kong in ralliesagainst a divisive government plan to allow extraditions to China.

Protesters block roads in Hong Kong in anti-China demonstration against extradition bill Protesters have blocked two main highways in central Hong Kong in ralliesagainst a divisive government plan to allow extraditions to China. Envoy says Sudan talks to resume as strike suspended Sudan`s military and opposition groups have agreed to resume talks on the formation of a transitional council, an Ethiopian envoy said on Tuesday, as an opposition alliance said it was suspending its campaign of civil disobedience and strikes. Cyclone Vayu: Thunderstorm, lightning alert issued for various districts of Gujarat;'orange' warning for Goa The Indian Meteorological Department has issued warnings of thunderstorm and lightning accompanied by gusty wind (40-50 kmph) at isolated places in the districts of North Gujarat region including Banaskantha and Sabarkantha for Wednesday and Thursday. Life imprisonment for Mumbai man who created hijack scare on Jet plane In the first conviction under the amended anti-hijacking law, a special NIA court Tuesday awarded life term to a Mumbai-based businessman and also imposed a hefty Rs 5 crore fine for triggering a hijack scare on a Jet Airways plane in 2017. Pakistani fans love cricket, they won't boo Steven Smith: Captain Sarfaraz Ahmed Sarfaraz Ahmed insists Pakistan fans won't boo shamed Australia star Steven Smith during their World Cup match in Taunton on Wednesday. Pakistan fans are expected to make up a large chunk of the crowd in the west country and there are fears they might follow the example of the India supporters who jeered Smith at the Oval on Sunday.

Hong Kong was rocked Wednesday by the worst <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-use-tear-gas-as-protesters-try-to-storm-parliament-226502">political unrest </a>since its handover to China, as police fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse protesters who tried to storm parliament and blocked roads in the financial hub.

The violent protests were the latest expression of widespread public anger over the government's controversial Beijing-backed plan to allow extraditions to China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-authorities-delay-debate-on-extradition-bill-after-mass-protests-226410">Clashes broke out</a> hours after tens of thousands of people seized key arteries in the morning rush hour and surrounded the city's parliament, forcing lawmakers to postpone a debate on the proposed law.

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam, who is championing the law's passage, described the protests as "organised riots" and called for calm to be restored.

"The rioting actions that damage peaceful society, ignoring law and discipline is unacceptable for any civilised societies," she said in a video statement.

Police earlier used tear gas, rubber bullets and batons to battle crowds of black-clad demonstrators -- most of them young people and students -- demanding authorities scrap the Beijing-backed law.

The scenes echoed the pro-democracy "Umbrella Movement" of 2014 where protesters calling for greater democratic rights shut down swathes of the city for two months and battled police, but won no concessions from Beijing.&nbsp;

Watch: Hong Kong's largest protest since 1997

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hong-kongs-largest-protest-since-1997-226084/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

This time police appeared determined not to let protesters hold any ground while the young demonstrators responded in kind, hurling projectiles including metal poles, bottles and bricks.

Tear gas sent the crowds scattering, but riot police continued to fight cat and mouse battles with their opponents into the evening, pushing them down towards the city's commercial centre and bringing it to a standstill.

Authorities said 22 people were injured, with wounded police and protesters seen being carried away.&nbsp;

Unprecedented scenes

Hong Kong has been convulsed by political unrest in recent years as fears surge that Beijing is trying to stamp on the city's unique freedoms and culture.

But Wednesday's violence was an unprecedented escalation of the conflict.

"In terms of the level of violence, today has been the most serious since the 1997 handover," political analyst Dixon Sing told AFP, citing the sustained use of tear gas, rubber bullets and bean bag rounds, as well as the willingness of protesters to take on the police.&nbsp;

"Today's events reflect a huge gap in the confidence Hong Kong people have towards the government. They increasingly believe the Hong Kong government are a bunch of puppets serving the interests of Beijing," he added.

The proposed law would allow Hong Kong to send suspects to other jurisdictions around the world -- including China.

Hong Kong's leaders say it is needed to plug loopholes and to stop the city being a sanctuary for fugitives. They say safeguards are in place to ensure that political critics of Beijing will not be targeted.

But it is deeply unpopular, with fears people will become entangled in the mainland's opaque courts, leaving them vulnerable to a justice system seen as acting at the behest of the Chinese Communist Party.

Opposition to the bill has united an unusually wide cross-section of the city in recent weeks, from influential businessmen and lawyers, to religious groups, student unions and workers.

On Sunday record crowds of around one million marched against the law.&nbsp;

That rally, however, failed to move pro-Beijing Lam, who has rejected calls to withdraw the bill and vowed to fast track it through the legislature.

"The protest today took place solely because Carrie Lam ignored the voice of 1.03 million people, and refused to withdraw the Extradition Bill," the Civil Human Rights Front protest group said late Wednesday, accusing the police of being overly aggressive and halting people's ability to protest.&nbsp;

Police chief Stephen Lo defended his officers, saying they had shown restraint until "mobsters" tried to storm parliament.&nbsp;

"These violent protesters kept charging at our line of defence, and used very dangerous weapons, including... throwing metal barricades at us and throwing bricks," he said.

But Amnesty International said police "took advantage of the violent acts of a small minority as a pretext to use excessive force against the vast majority of peaceful protesters."&nbsp;

Hong Kong's stock market sank nearly 1.8 per cent on Wednesday in the city-wide turmoil while the parliament cancelled the scheduled debate. But authorities are determined to have the law on the books as soon as possible.&nbsp;

Protesters have vowed to keep hitting the streets until the bill is shelved.&nbsp;

"The only responsible thing to do now is for Carrie Lam to withdraw the evil bill, or at least to shelve it in order to solve the crisis," said pro-democracy lawmaker Fernando Cheung.

"I will keep fighting," protester Kevin Leung, 20, told AFP late Wednesday. "Until our goal is achieved, we will keep going."

Many western nations have criticised the bill, while Beijing has voiced support.

Under the handover agreement with Britain, China allowed Hong Kong to retain the freedoms and an independent judiciary that were integral to its economic success for 50 years.&nbsp;

But there are fears China is reneging on that deal, a slide that critics say has worsened since President Xi Jinping's ushered in an era of more authoritarian rule on the mainland.&nbsp;

Hong Kong was rocked Wednesday by the worst political unrest since its handover to China, as police fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse protesters who tried to storm parliament and blocked roads in the financial hub.

Hong Kong was rocked Wednesday by the worst political unrest since its handover to China, as police fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse protesters who tried to storm parliament and blocked roads in the financial hub. The violent protests were the latest expression of widespread public anger over the government's controversial Beijing-backed plan to allow extraditions to China. Clashes broke out hours after tens of thousands of people seized key arteries in the morning rush hour and surrounded the city's parliament, forcing lawmakers to postpone a debate on the proposed law. Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam, who is championing the law's passage, described the protests as "organised riots" and called for calm to be restored. "The rioting actions that damage peaceful society, ignoring law and discipline is unacceptable for any civilised societies," she said in a video statement. Police earlier used tear gas, rubber bullets and batons to battle crowds of black-clad demonstrators -- most of them young people and students -- demanding authorities scrap the Beijing-backed law. The scenes echoed the pro-democracy "Umbrella Movement" of 2014 where protesters calling for greater democratic rights shut down swathes of the city for two months and battled police, but won no concessions from Beijing. Watch: Hong Kong's largest protest since 1997 × This time police appeared determined not to let protesters hold any ground while the young demonstrators responded in kind, hurling projectiles including metal poles, bottles and bricks. Tear gas sent the crowds scattering, but riot police continued to fight cat and mouse battles with their opponents into the evening, pushing them down towards the city's commercial centre and bringing it to a standstill. Authorities said 22 people were injured, with wounded police and protesters seen being carried away. Unprecedented scenes Hong Kong has been convulsed by political unrest in recent years as fears surge that Beijing is trying to stamp on the city's unique freedoms and culture. But Wednesday's violence was an unprecedented escalation of the conflict. "In terms of the level of violence, today has been the most serious since the 1997 handover," political analyst Dixon Sing told AFP, citing the sustained use of tear gas, rubber bullets and bean bag rounds, as well as the willingness of protesters to take on the police. "Today's events reflect a huge gap in the confidence Hong Kong people have towards the government. They increasingly believe the Hong Kong government are a bunch of puppets serving the interests of Beijing," he added. The proposed law would allow Hong Kong to send suspects to other jurisdictions around the world -- including China. Hong Kong's leaders say it is needed to plug loopholes and to stop the city being a sanctuary for fugitives. They say safeguards are in place to ensure that political critics of Beijing will not be targeted. But it is deeply unpopular, with fears people will become entangled in the mainland's opaque courts, leaving them vulnerable to a justice system seen as acting at the behest of the Chinese Communist Party. Opposition to the bill has united an unusually wide cross-section of the city in recent weeks, from influential businessmen and lawyers, to religious groups, student unions and workers. On Sunday record crowds of around one million marched against the law. That rally, however, failed to move pro-Beijing Lam, who has rejected calls to withdraw the bill and vowed to fast track it through the legislature. "The protest today took place solely because Carrie Lam ignored the voice of 1.03 million people, and refused to withdraw the Extradition Bill," the Civil Human Rights Front protest group said late Wednesday, accusing the police of being overly aggressive and halting people's ability to protest. Police chief Stephen Lo defended his officers, saying they had shown restraint until "mobsters" tried to storm parliament. "These violent protesters kept charging at our line of defence, and used very dangerous weapons, including... throwing metal barricades at us and throwing bricks," he said. But Amnesty International said police "took advantage of the violent acts of a small minority as a pretext to use excessive force against the vast majority of peaceful protesters." Hong Kong's stock market sank nearly 1.8 per cent on Wednesday in the city-wide turmoil while the parliament cancelled the scheduled debate. But authorities are determined to have the law on the books as soon as possible. Protesters have vowed to keep hitting the streets until the bill is shelved. "The only responsible thing to do now is for Carrie Lam to withdraw the evil bill, or at least to shelve it in order to solve the crisis," said pro-democracy lawmaker Fernando Cheung. "I will keep fighting," protester Kevin Leung, 20, told AFP late Wednesday. "Until our goal is achieved, we will keep going." Many western nations have criticised the bill, while Beijing has voiced support. Under the handover agreement with Britain, China allowed Hong Kong to retain the freedoms and an independent judiciary that were integral to its economic success for 50 years. But there are fears China is reneging on that deal, a slide that critics say has worsened since President Xi Jinping's ushered in an era of more authoritarian rule on the mainland.

China extradition clashes: Hong Kong Chief Executive calls protests 'organised riots'

Protesters have blocked two main highways in central <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-braces-for-new-mass-protests-against-planned-extraditions-to-china-226334">Hong Kong in rallies</a> against a divisive government plan to allow extraditions to China.

Thousands of people occupied the two roads, bringing traffic to a standstill and mimicking tactics used in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/changes-in-fugitive-offenders-ordinance-could-undermine-hong-kongs-autonomy-us-226098">2014 in the Occupy movement</a> where key intersections were blocked for months.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hong-kongs-largest-protest-since-1997-226084/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Chaotic scenes erupted in Hong Kong early on Wednesday as thousands of demonstrators stormed a key road next to government offices to protest against a proposed extradition bill that would allow people to be sent to mainland China for trial.

Television pictures showed thousands of protesters rallying in and around Lung Wo Road, an important east-west artery near the offices of Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam, as hundreds of riot police warned them to stop advancing.

Some protesters erected barricades to block traffic in the heart of the Asian financial centre, with many defying police calls to retreat, in scenes reminiscent of pro-democracy protests that rocked the city in late 2014.

Embattled leader Lam said she would press ahead with the controversial legislation despite deep concerns across the Asian financial hub that triggered on Sunday its biggest political demonstration since its handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997.

Demonstrators from across a wide spectrum of Hong Kong society began joining the overnight protesters earlier on Wednesday as businesses across the city prepared to go on strike.

The bill, which has generated unusually broad opposition at home and abroad, is due for a second round of debate on Wednesday in Hong Kong's 70-seat Legislative Council. The legislature is controlled by a pro-Beijing majority.

Lam has sought to soothe public concerns and said her administration was creating additional amendments to the bill, including safeguarding human rights.

(With inputs from Reuters, AFP)

&nbsp;

Protesters have blocked two main highways in central Hong Kong in rallies against a divisive government plan to allow extraditions to China. Thousands of people occupied the two roads, bringing traffic to a standstill and mimicking tactics used in 2014 in the Occupy movement where key intersections were blocked for months.

Protesters have blocked two main highways in central Hong Kong in rallies against a divisive government plan to allow extraditions to China. Thousands of people occupied the two roads, bringing traffic to a standstill and mimicking tactics used in 2014 in the Occupy movement where key intersections were blocked for months. Chaotic scenes erupted in Hong Kong early on Wednesday as thousands of demonstrators stormed a key road next to government offices to protest against a proposed extradition bill that would allow people to be sent to mainland China for trial. Television pictures showed thousands of protesters rallying in and around Lung Wo Road, an important east-west artery near the offices of Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam, as hundreds of riot police warned them to stop advancing. Some protesters erected barricades to block traffic in the heart of the Asian financial centre, with many defying police calls to retreat, in scenes reminiscent of pro-democracy protests that rocked the city in late 2014. Embattled leader Lam said she would press ahead with the controversial legislation despite deep concerns across the Asian financial hub that triggered on Sunday its biggest political demonstration since its handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997. Demonstrators from across a wide spectrum of Hong Kong society began joining the overnight protesters earlier on Wednesday as businesses across the city prepared to go on strike. The bill, which has generated unusually broad opposition at home and abroad, is due for a second round of debate on Wednesday in Hong Kong's 70-seat Legislative Council. The legislature is controlled by a pro-Beijing majority. Lam has sought to soothe public concerns and said her administration was creating additional amendments to the bill, including safeguarding human rights. (With inputs from Reuters, AFP)

Protesters block roads in Hong Kong in anti-China demonstration against extradition bill

Thousands of protesters marched through Hong Kong to voice their opposition on legislation that would allow people to be extradited to mainland China. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong: New bill allows extradition to China

Hong Kong braced for strikes, transport go-slows and another <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-businesses-pledge-closures-as-extradition-anger-builds-226173">mass demonstration</a> in protest against a proposed extradition law that would allow people to be sent to China for trial, as the Chinese-ruled city's leader vowed defiance.

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam said she would push ahead with the bill despite deep concerns across vast swaths of the Asian financial hub that triggered its biggest political demonstration since its handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997.

In a rare move, prominent business leaders warned that pushing through the extradition law<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/changes-in-fugitive-offenders-ordinance-could-undermine-hong-kongs-autonomy-us-226098"> could undermine investor confidence</a> in Hong Kong and erode its competitive advantages.

The extradition bill, which has generated unusually broad opposition at home and abroad, is due for a second round of debate on Wednesday in the city's 70-seat Legislative Council. The legislature is controlled by a pro-Beijing majority.

An online petition has called for 50,000 people to surround the legislature building at 10 p.m. (1400 GMT) on Tuesday and remain until Wednesday.

Britain handed Hong Kong back to China under a "one-country, two-systems" formula, with guarantees that its autonomy and freedoms, including an independent justice system, would be protected.

But many accuse China of extensive meddling, denying democratic reforms, interfering with local elections and the disappearance of five Hong Kong-based booksellers, starting in 2015, who specialised in works critical of Chinese leaders.

Sunday's protests plunged Hong Kong into political crisis, just as months of pro-democracy "Occupy" demonstrations did in 2014, heaping pressure on Lam's administration and her official backers in Beijing.

She warned against any "radical actions", following clashes in the early hours of Monday between some protesters and police after Sunday's otherwise peaceful march.

Police erected metal barriers to secure the council building as a small number of protesters started to gather on Tuesday evening despite torrential rain and thunderstorm warnings. Police conducted random ID checks at train stations.

Pro-democracy lawmaker Claudia Mo urged people to join the rally and encouraged businesses to strike "for a day, or two, or probably for one whole week".

Nearly 2,000 mostly small retail shops, including restaurants, grocery, book and coffee shops, have announced plans to strike, according to an online survey, a rare move in the staunchly capitalist economy.

Eaton HK Hotel, which is owned by Langham Hospitality Investments and operated by Great Eagle Holdings, said it respected workers' "political stances" and would allow them to rally.

The student union of several higher education institutions and the Hong Kong Professional Teachers' Union urged people to strike on Wednesday. Nearly 4,000 teachers said they would rally.

Human rights groups have repeatedly cited the alleged use of torture, arbitrary detentions, forced confessions and problems accessing lawyers in China, where the courts are controlled by the Communist Party, as reasons why the Hong Kong bill should not proceed.

"When the fugitive extradition bill is passed, Hong Kong will become a 'useless Hong Kong'" said Jimmy Sham, convenor of Civil Human Rights Front. "We will be deep in a place where foreign investors are afraid to invest and tourists are afraid to go. Once the 'Pearl of the Orient' (it) will become nothing."

The Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong called on the government not to pass the bill "hurriedly" and urged all Christians to pray for the former colony.

A staff union affiliated to a pro-democracy labour group under the New World First Bus Company called on its members to drive at the speed of 20-25 kmh (12-15 mph) to show their opposition to the proposed law.

A Facebook post called on people to enjoy a picnic next to government offices on Wednesday, describing the area as "among the best picnic sites". The post has attracted close to 10,000 responses from people promising to attend.

Beijing-based consultancy Gavecal said some bankers in Hong Kong were reporting that many mainland clients were shifting their accounts to Singapore, fearing they could come under scrutiny in the financial hub.

'Missteps could be costly'

Many residents of the financial centre, both expatriate and local, are increasingly unnerved by Beijing's tightening grip over the city.

China's foreign ministry said on Tuesday that Hong Kong matters are purely a Chinese internal affair and China demands the United States stops interfering in Hong Kong's affairs.

The comments came after Washington said on Monday it was gravely concerned about the proposed law and warned that such a move could jeopardise the special status Washington affords Hong Kong.

Prominent business figures urged the government to tread cautiously to protect Hong Kong's competitiveness.

"The integrity and independence of (Hong Kong's) legal system are absolutely central to Hong Kong's future," said Fred Hu, founder and chairman of China-based private equity firm, Primavera Capital Group.

Activist investor David Webb, in a post on Lam's Facebook page, urged her to send the bill to the Law Reform Commission for further study.

"If you press ahead and bulldoze the bill through LegCo, then you will probably get the legislation passed, but at huge political cost and damage to the international credibility of HK for due process when reforming its legislation," Webb said.

Hong Kong braced for strikes, transport go-slows and another mass demonstration in protest against a proposed extradition law that would allow people to be sent to China for trial, as the Chinese-ruled city's leader vowed defiance.

Hong Kong braced for strikes, transport go-slows and another mass demonstration in protest against a proposed extradition law that would allow people to be sent to China for trial, as the Chinese-ruled city's leader vowed defiance. Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam said she would push ahead with the bill despite deep concerns across vast swaths of the Asian financial hub that triggered its biggest political demonstration since its handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997. In a rare move, prominent business leaders warned that pushing through the extradition law could undermine investor confidence in Hong Kong and erode its competitive advantages. The extradition bill, which has generated unusually broad opposition at home and abroad, is due for a second round of debate on Wednesday in the city's 70-seat Legislative Council. The legislature is controlled by a pro-Beijing majority. An online petition has called for 50,000 people to surround the legislature building at 10 p.m. (1400 GMT) on Tuesday and remain until Wednesday. Britain handed Hong Kong back to China under a "one-country, two-systems" formula, with guarantees that its autonomy and freedoms, including an independent justice system, would be protected. But many accuse China of extensive meddling, denying democratic reforms, interfering with local elections and the disappearance of five Hong Kong-based booksellers, starting in 2015, who specialised in works critical of Chinese leaders. Sunday's protests plunged Hong Kong into political crisis, just as months of pro-democracy "Occupy" demonstrations did in 2014, heaping pressure on Lam's administration and her official backers in Beijing. She warned against any "radical actions", following clashes in the early hours of Monday between some protesters and police after Sunday's otherwise peaceful march. Police erected metal barriers to secure the council building as a small number of protesters started to gather on Tuesday evening despite torrential rain and thunderstorm warnings. Police conducted random ID checks at train stations. Pro-democracy lawmaker Claudia Mo urged people to join the rally and encouraged businesses to strike "for a day, or two, or probably for one whole week". Nearly 2,000 mostly small retail shops, including restaurants, grocery, book and coffee shops, have announced plans to strike, according to an online survey, a rare move in the staunchly capitalist economy. Eaton HK Hotel, which is owned by Langham Hospitality Investments and operated by Great Eagle Holdings, said it respected workers' "political stances" and would allow them to rally. The student union of several higher education institutions and the Hong Kong Professional Teachers' Union urged people to strike on Wednesday. Nearly 4,000 teachers said they would rally. Human rights groups have repeatedly cited the alleged use of torture, arbitrary detentions, forced confessions and problems accessing lawyers in China, where the courts are controlled by the Communist Party, as reasons why the Hong Kong bill should not proceed. "When the fugitive extradition bill is passed, Hong Kong will become a 'useless Hong Kong'" said Jimmy Sham, convenor of Civil Human Rights Front. "We will be deep in a place where foreign investors are afraid to invest and tourists are afraid to go. Once the 'Pearl of the Orient' (it) will become nothing." The Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong called on the government not to pass the bill "hurriedly" and urged all Christians to pray for the former colony. A staff union affiliated to a pro-democracy labour group under the New World First Bus Company called on its members to drive at the speed of 20-25 kmh (12-15 mph) to show their opposition to the proposed law. A Facebook post called on people to enjoy a picnic next to government offices on Wednesday, describing the area as "among the best picnic sites". The post has attracted close to 10,000 responses from people promising to attend. Beijing-based consultancy Gavecal said some bankers in Hong Kong were reporting that many mainland clients were shifting their accounts to Singapore, fearing they could come under scrutiny in the financial hub. 'Missteps could be costly' Many residents of the financial centre, both expatriate and local, are increasingly unnerved by Beijing's tightening grip over the city. China's foreign ministry said on Tuesday that Hong Kong matters are purely a Chinese internal affair and China demands the United States stops interfering in Hong Kong's affairs. The comments came after Washington said on Monday it was gravely concerned about the proposed law and warned that such a move could jeopardise the special status Washington affords Hong Kong. Prominent business figures urged the government to tread cautiously to protect Hong Kong's competitiveness. "The integrity and independence of (Hong Kong's) legal system are absolutely central to Hong Kong's future," said Fred Hu, founder and chairman of China-based private equity firm, Primavera Capital Group. Activist investor David Webb, in a post on Lam's Facebook page, urged her to send the bill to the Law Reform Commission for further study. "If you press ahead and bulldoze the bill through LegCo, then you will probably get the legislation passed, but at huge political cost and damage to the international credibility of HK for due process when reforming its legislation," Webb said.

Hong Kong braces for new mass protests against planned extraditions to China

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

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

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

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

Protests Intensify In Hong Kong Against New Extradition Bill

Gravitas: Hong Kong's largest protest since 1997

hong-kong

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

hong kong

Carrie Lam: Hong Kong's divisive, pro-Beijing leader

A big win for Hong Kong's protesters

Hong Kong suspends proposed extradition bill

Hong Kong leader says divisive extradition law will be 'suspended'

Explainer: Why proposed changes to Hong Kong's extradition law fuelling protests

High points of Hong Kong's huge protests

Gravitas: Violence erupts in Hong Kong again: Protests put China on the defensive

Hong Kongers alarmed by Google translation gaffe

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - June 13th, 2019

Gravitas: Hong Kong Descends Into Violent Chaos

Police fire tear gas from above as protesters gather in Hong Kong

News brief: Big stories of the day

Hope protesters in Hong Kong can work it out with China, says Trump

China state media blames Hong Kong protests on 'lawlessness'

Hong Kong authorities delay debate on extradition bill after mass protests

Hong Kong anti-extradition protesters move barricades ahead of debate

Hong Kong government asks protesters to leave

News brief: Big stories of the day

China extradition clashes: Hong Kong Chief Executive calls protests 'organised riots'

Protesters block roads in Hong Kong in anti-China demonstration against extradition bill

Hong Kong: New bill allows extradition to China

Hong Kong braces for new mass protests against planned extraditions to China

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

Gravitas: Hong Kong's largest protest since 1997