The Chinese government aims to turn Macau, the world's largest casino den, into a regional technological powerhouse.

According to the South China Morning Post, this comes as the Venetian Macao Convention and Exhibition Centre staged a large technology-themed trade show in December 2021, which is anticipated to spur the development of new sectors and rejuvenate the local economy.

According to the event's website, Macau will serve as "the new centre of international technology," connecting the Asia Pacific digital ecosystem to the rest of the world.&nbsp;

The Venetian Macao Convention and Exhibition Centre hosted a large technology-themed trade fair this week, with hundreds of mainland tech investors and executives crossing the border to discuss their visions for the city as the former Portuguese colony grapples with COVID-19 and Beijing's harsh stance on gambling.

The event takes place at a time when Macau's cornerstone business, gambling, is facing uncertainty, as Beijing expresses its discontent with Macau's casinos' position as illicit money drainage channels that threaten China's financial stability and capital account regulations.&nbsp;

Amid potential US penalties over Hong Kong, Chinese institutions are being pressured to move from SWIFT to a domestic financial network.

Since gambling became permitted in the former Portuguese province in the 1850s, Macau has been branded the "Gambling Capital of the World" and the "Monte Carlo of the East."

Before the pandemic, the gambling industry provided almost half of the city's $54 billion GDP and earned 80% of the local government's tax revenue, according to data.

The drop in gaming revenue of 80% last year resulted in a 50% drop in GDP.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Chinese government aims to turn Macau, the world's largest casino den, into a regional technological powerhouse. According to the South China Morning Post, this comes as the Venetian Macao Convention and Exhibition Centre staged a large technology-themed trade show in December 2021, which is anticipated to spur the development of new sectors and rejuvenate the local economy.

The Chinese government aims to turn Macau, the world's largest casino den, into a regional technological powerhouse. According to the South China Morning Post, this comes as the Venetian Macao Convention and Exhibition Centre staged a large technology-themed trade show in December 2021, which is anticipated to spur the development of new sectors and rejuvenate the local economy. According to the event's website, Macau will serve as "the new centre of international technology," connecting the Asia Pacific digital ecosystem to the rest of the world. The Venetian Macao Convention and Exhibition Centre hosted a large technology-themed trade fair this week, with hundreds of mainland tech investors and executives crossing the border to discuss their visions for the city as the former Portuguese colony grapples with COVID-19 and Beijing's harsh stance on gambling. The event takes place at a time when Macau's cornerstone business, gambling, is facing uncertainty, as Beijing expresses its discontent with Macau's casinos' position as illicit money drainage channels that threaten China's financial stability and capital account regulations. Amid potential US penalties over Hong Kong, Chinese institutions are being pressured to move from SWIFT to a domestic financial network. Since gambling became permitted in the former Portuguese province in the 1850s, Macau has been branded the "Gambling Capital of the World" and the "Monte Carlo of the East." Before the pandemic, the gambling industry provided almost half of the city's $54 billion GDP and earned 80% of the local government's tax revenue, according to data. The drop in gaming revenue of 80% last year resulted in a 50% drop in GDP. (With inputs from agencies)

From casino den to technology base: China wants to transform Macau

On Wednesday, shares of Macau casino operators shed as much as a third of their value, losing about $18 billion, as the government kicked off a regulatory overhaul that could see its officials supervising companies in the world's largest gambling hub.

World Business Watch: China to crackdown on gambling destination

The global ban and travel ban have dented business in China's gambling hub Macau which is one of its kind recreational centre in Asia as well.

World Business Watch: COVID-19 hits China's gambling hub, business remains muted in casinos

Macau&nbsp;said on Wednesday it was closing its representative office in Taiwan, following neighbouring Hong Kong which made the same move last month in protest at Taipei's support for pro-democracy activists.

Hong Kong and&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;are "semi-autonomous" Chinese cities, although foreign policy is all but decided by Beijing and the central government has taken an increasingly more direct say in how both former colonies are run in recent years.

In a short statement,&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;announced its Economic and Cultural Delegation in Taiwan will temporarily suspend operations from June 19.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-suspends-operations-at-representative-office-in-taiwan-as-tensions-rise-385847">Hong Kong suspends operations at representative office in Taiwan as tensions rise</a>&nbsp;

In response, Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council expressed "deep regret over the&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;government's unilateral decision," saying it would continue to keep its trade office in the Chinese gambling enclave open.

Macau&nbsp;gave no reason for the closure. But the wording was almost identical to last month's statement by Hong Kong.

That announcement was then followed by Hong Kong's government confirming the closure was indeed political.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-blames-gross-interference-for-taiwan-office-closure-386536">Hong Kong blames 'gross interference' for Taiwan office closure</a>

Taiwan, Hong Kong said, had "grossly interfered" in the city's affairs on repeated occasions and "created irretrievable damage" to relations.

Hong Kong and&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;abide by authoritarian China's view that democratic, self-ruled Taiwan is part of its territory and must be seized one day, by force if necessary.

That makes any official contact with Taipei tricky, even though Taiwan is a major trading partner.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-launches-protest-after-japanese-pm-suga-refers-to-taiwan-as-a-country-390764">China launches protest after Japanese PM Suga refers to Taiwan as a country</a>

China had encouraged trade offices when relations were warmer.

But since the 2016 election of Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen, Beijing cut official contacts and ramped up economic, military and diplomatic pressure.

Beijing loathes Tsai because she regards Taiwan as a de facto sovereign nation and not part of "one China".

Her government is also a vocal supporter of democratic principles and has quietly helped open its doors to some Hong Kongers trying to escape Beijing's crackdown on dissent after huge democracy protests rocked the financial hub in 2019.

Macau said on Wednesday it was closing its representative office in Taiwan, following neighbouring Hong Kong which made the same move last month in protest at Taipei's support for pro-democracy activists.

Macau said on Wednesday it was closing its representative office in Taiwan, following neighbouring Hong Kong which made the same move last month in protest at Taipei's support for pro-democracy activists. Hong Kong and Macau are "semi-autonomous" Chinese cities, although foreign policy is all but decided by Beijing and the central government has taken an increasingly more direct say in how both former colonies are run in recent years. In a short statement, Macau announced its Economic and Cultural Delegation in Taiwan will temporarily suspend operations from June 19. Also read | Hong Kong suspends operations at representative office in Taiwan as tensions rise In response, Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council expressed "deep regret over the Macau government's unilateral decision," saying it would continue to keep its trade office in the Chinese gambling enclave open. Macau gave no reason for the closure. But the wording was almost identical to last month's statement by Hong Kong. That announcement was then followed by Hong Kong's government confirming the closure was indeed political. Also read | Hong Kong blames 'gross interference' for Taiwan office closure Taiwan, Hong Kong said, had "grossly interfered" in the city's affairs on repeated occasions and "created irretrievable damage" to relations. Hong Kong and Macau abide by authoritarian China's view that democratic, self-ruled Taiwan is part of its territory and must be seized one day, by force if necessary. That makes any official contact with Taipei tricky, even though Taiwan is a major trading partner. Also read | China launches protest after Japanese PM Suga refers to Taiwan as a country China had encouraged trade offices when relations were warmer. But since the 2016 election of Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen, Beijing cut official contacts and ramped up economic, military and diplomatic pressure. Beijing loathes Tsai because she regards Taiwan as a de facto sovereign nation and not part of "one China". Her government is also a vocal supporter of democratic principles and has quietly helped open its doors to some Hong Kongers trying to escape Beijing's crackdown on dissent after huge democracy protests rocked the financial hub in 2019.

Macau follows Hong Kong in shuttering Taiwan office

China announced details of a long-anticipated pilot scheme on Monday linking up investment of wealth management products in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;and Macau with neighbouring cities, to further integrate the semi-autonomous economies with the mainland.

"Wealth Management Connect" will allow residents of the two offshore centres and those in nine cities on the mainland - which together form the "Greater Bay Area" (GBA) - to buy such products in each other's markets.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/after-us-china-to-impose-visa-restrictions-against-americans-over-hong-kong-row-309353" hreflang="en">After US, China to impose visa restrictions against Americans over Hong Kong row</a>

The announcement comes as China seeks to impose a new national security law on&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong, and just two days before the 23rd anniversary of the territory's return to Chinese rule.

It reflects "solid backing" from Beijing and that "Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;continues to play a leading role in the country's economic development and opening up of financial markets," the city's leader Carrie Lam said in a statement.

Mainland China has strict capital controls, while&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;and Macau do not. The People's Bank of China and the two cities' central banks will pilot the scheme with adjustable investment quotas, they said in a joint statement on Monday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/fifty-three-arrested-as-hong-kongers-protest-planned-national-security-laws-309216" hreflang="en">Fifty-three arrested as Hong Kongers protest planned national security laws</a>

Cross-boundary remittances in the scheme will be conducted in yuan and currency conversions will be done offshore, the statement said, adding the pilot's official launch date would be announced later.

"It represents a major breakthrough in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's offshore renminbi business development, and a significant step to foster closer financial cooperation in GBA," Eddie Yue, chief executive of the&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;Monetary Authority, said in the statement. The yuan is also known as the renminbi.

Similar 'Connect' links quickly became major channels for global investors trading Chinese bonds and shares after they were launched in recent years, boosting the yuan's use.

Peter Alexander, managing director of fund consultancy Z-Ben Advisors, said foreign firms however should temper their expectations due to the lack of details, such as timing of the launch or types of eligible products.

"What has been most problematic is...the gross misunderstanding globally as to what, exactly 'wealth management' is in the eyes of the Chinese."&nbsp;

China announced details of a long-anticipated pilot scheme on Monday linking up investment of wealth management products in Hong Kong and Macau with neighbouring cities, to further integrate the semi-autonomous economies with the mainland.

China announced details of a long-anticipated pilot scheme on Monday linking up investment of wealth management products in Hong Kong and Macau with neighbouring cities, to further integrate the semi-autonomous economies with the mainland. "Wealth Management Connect" will allow residents of the two offshore centres and those in nine cities on the mainland - which together form the "Greater Bay Area" (GBA) - to buy such products in each other's markets. Also read: After US, China to impose visa restrictions against Americans over Hong Kong row The announcement comes as China seeks to impose a new national security law on Hong Kong, and just two days before the 23rd anniversary of the territory's return to Chinese rule. It reflects "solid backing" from Beijing and that "Hong Kong continues to play a leading role in the country's economic development and opening up of financial markets," the city's leader Carrie Lam said in a statement. Mainland China has strict capital controls, while Hong Kong and Macau do not. The People's Bank of China and the two cities' central banks will pilot the scheme with adjustable investment quotas, they said in a joint statement on Monday. Also read: Fifty-three arrested as Hong Kongers protest planned national security laws Cross-boundary remittances in the scheme will be conducted in yuan and currency conversions will be done offshore, the statement said, adding the pilot's official launch date would be announced later. "It represents a major breakthrough in Hong Kong's offshore renminbi business development, and a significant step to foster closer financial cooperation in GBA," Eddie Yue, chief executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, said in the statement. The yuan is also known as the renminbi. Similar 'Connect' links quickly became major channels for global investors trading Chinese bonds and shares after they were launched in recent years, boosting the yuan's use. Peter Alexander, managing director of fund consultancy Z-Ben Advisors, said foreign firms however should temper their expectations due to the lack of details, such as timing of the launch or types of eligible products. "What has been most problematic is...the gross misunderstanding globally as to what, exactly 'wealth management' is in the eyes of the Chinese."

China unveils cross border wealth management scheme with Hong Kong, Macau

The number of newly infected cases of coronavirus was lowest in the last 24 hours. China is confident in containing the outbreak with International support.

Coronavirus Outbreak: Number of new cases dropped

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-government-fines-hsbc-1924-million-in-tax-evasion-case-267705">HSBC</a>&nbsp;is being drawn into&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's political turmoil with protesters attacking some of its&nbsp;branches&nbsp;and graffiti daubed on the famous pair of lions that guard its city-centre headquarters.

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;is the bank's single most important market, accounting for just over half of its $12.5 billion pre-tax profits in the first half of 2019, though with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protests-severely-challenged-one-country-two-systems-principle-xi-in-his-new-year-address-271325">protests</a> tipping&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's economy into recession,&nbsp;HSBC&nbsp;and its peers are expected to take a financial hit.

Until now,&nbsp;HSBC&nbsp;had largely escaped direct involvement in the often-violent anti-government protests that have shaken&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;for more than six months even as other companies with perceived links to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/airbus-beats-goal-with-863-jet-deliveries-in-2019-ousts-boeing-from-top-spot-271445">Beijing</a> have seen premises&nbsp;vandalised, including <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-unrest-protesters-vow-to-keep-fighting-police-fire-tear-gas-271427">Bank of China</a> (Hong&nbsp;Kong),&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's second largest bank behind&nbsp;HSBC.

But more recently,&nbsp;HSBC&nbsp;has drawn the ire of some protesters who accuse it of being complicit in action by the authorities against activists trying to raise money to support their campaign.

Protesters link the bank's closure in November of an account held by a group called Spark Alliance, which helps pay protesters' legal costs, to the December arrest of four Spark Alliance members on money laundering charges.

HSBC&nbsp;has strongly denied any connection.

"People are angry because they feel that&nbsp;HSBC&nbsp;has stopped money getting to the protesters," one protester said on Wednesday, of the decision to close the account as he stood in a group taking photos of the damaged lions.

HSBC&nbsp;said in a statement after the arrests that the decision to close the account was "in accordance to international regulatory standards".

"Our decision is completely unrelated to the&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;Police’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-around-400-arrested-in-new-years-day-unrest-271484">arrest</a> of the four individuals on 19 December 2019.&nbsp;We&nbsp;closed&nbsp;the account in November 2019 following direct instruction from the customer," the bank said.

It is highly unusual for&nbsp;HSBC&nbsp;to comment on individual cases.

Two&nbsp;HSBC&nbsp;branches&nbsp;and seven indoor ATM clusters were&nbsp;closed&nbsp;on Thursday, the first working day of the&nbsp;year.

Some had their windows smashed and "support Spark Alliance" was spray painted on their walls during a New&nbsp;Year's Day anti-government protest march. Others were damaged during protests on Christmas Eve.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Hong Kong kicks off 2020 fresh protests

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The two lions were daubed with graffiti and briefly set alight after being doused in a flammable liquid.

HSBC&nbsp;said on Thursday initial cleaning of the lions had begun.

"We are engaging conservation experts to advise us on the professional restoration required and the process can take time," the bank said in a statement.

More than 90 per cent&nbsp;of the $4.4 billion generated by&nbsp;HSBC's retail banking and wealth management unit in the six months to last June, came from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/last-year-was-marked-by-defiance-dissent-2020-is-likely-to-be-no-different-271611">Hong&nbsp;Kong</a>.

HSBC&nbsp;has also deployed billions of dollars in China’s southern Pearl River Delta region, adjacent to&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong, and has expanded its services in the world’s second largest economy.

Beijing plans to integrate the Pearl River Delta and&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-president-xi-jinping-praises-macau-for-choosing-unity-and-negotiation-over-contention-269302">Macau</a> to create an economic powerhouse under its Greater Bay Area Initiative.

HSBC's entanglement in the protests underlines the tightrope that companies have had to walk since the protests got going in June in response to a now-withdrawn bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, where courts are controlled by the Communist Party.

The demonstrations have evolved into a broad <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-readies-for-new-year-democracy-rally-271378">pro-democracy movement</a>.

"Clearly, there is a fine line for management to draw between customers and the Chinese authorities,” said a head of corporate governance at a UK-based asset manager and&nbsp;HSBC&nbsp;shareholder.

Other&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;companies have been damaged by being perceived to be too supportive of the protests.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/seven-hong-kong-airlines-planes-impounded-by-authority-268722">Cathay Pacific Airways</a> was forced by Beijing to suspend staff involved in the protests, and chief executive Rupert Hogg and his top deputy resigned in August amid the turmoil.

HSBC&nbsp;has previously been targeted by supporters of Beijing.

Users of China's Weibo social media platform shared screenshots last&nbsp;year&nbsp;of an&nbsp;HSBC&nbsp;employee's Facebook posts supporting the protests. The posts urged readers to complain to&nbsp;HSBC&nbsp;management.

"Businesses now have to consider how three different groups will react to their decisions: The Chinese government,&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;protesters, and Chinese consumers," said Kent Kedl, head of Control Risks' Greater China practice.

HSBC is being drawn into Hong Kong's political turmoil with protesters attacking some of its branches and graffiti daubed on the famous pair of lions that guard its city-centre headquarters.

HSBC is being drawn into Hong Kong's political turmoil with protesters attacking some of its branches and graffiti daubed on the famous pair of lions that guard its city-centre headquarters. Hong Kong is the bank's single most important market, accounting for just over half of its $12.5 billion pre-tax profits in the first half of 2019, though with the protests tipping Hong Kong's economy into recession, HSBC and its peers are expected to take a financial hit. Until now, HSBC had largely escaped direct involvement in the often-violent anti-government protests that have shaken Hong Kong for more than six months even as other companies with perceived links to Beijing have seen premises vandalised, including Bank of China (Hong Kong), Hong Kong's second largest bank behind HSBC. But more recently, HSBC has drawn the ire of some protesters who accuse it of being complicit in action by the authorities against activists trying to raise money to support their campaign. Protesters link the bank's closure in November of an account held by a group called Spark Alliance, which helps pay protesters' legal costs, to the December arrest of four Spark Alliance members on money laundering charges. HSBC has strongly denied any connection. "People are angry because they feel that HSBC has stopped money getting to the protesters," one protester said on Wednesday, of the decision to close the account as he stood in a group taking photos of the damaged lions. HSBC said in a statement after the arrests that the decision to close the account was "in accordance to international regulatory standards". "Our decision is completely unrelated to the Hong Kong Police’s arrest of the four individuals on 19 December 2019. We closed the account in November 2019 following direct instruction from the customer," the bank said. It is highly unusual for HSBC to comment on individual cases. Two HSBC branches and seven indoor ATM clusters were closed on Thursday, the first working day of the year. Some had their windows smashed and "support Spark Alliance" was spray painted on their walls during a New Year's Day anti-government protest march. Others were damaged during protests on Christmas Eve. Also Watch: Hong Kong kicks off 2020 fresh protests × The two lions were daubed with graffiti and briefly set alight after being doused in a flammable liquid. HSBC said on Thursday initial cleaning of the lions had begun. "We are engaging conservation experts to advise us on the professional restoration required and the process can take time," the bank said in a statement. More than 90 per cent of the $4.4 billion generated by HSBC's retail banking and wealth management unit in the six months to last June, came from Hong Kong. HSBC has also deployed billions of dollars in China’s southern Pearl River Delta region, adjacent to Hong Kong, and has expanded its services in the world’s second largest economy. Beijing plans to integrate the Pearl River Delta and Hong Kong and Macau to create an economic powerhouse under its Greater Bay Area Initiative. HSBC's entanglement in the protests underlines the tightrope that companies have had to walk since the protests got going in June in response to a now-withdrawn bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, where courts are controlled by the Communist Party. The demonstrations have evolved into a broad pro-democracy movement. "Clearly, there is a fine line for management to draw between customers and the Chinese authorities,” said a head of corporate governance at a UK-based asset manager and HSBC shareholder. Other Hong Kong companies have been damaged by being perceived to be too supportive of the protests. Cathay Pacific Airways was forced by Beijing to suspend staff involved in the protests, and chief executive Rupert Hogg and his top deputy resigned in August amid the turmoil. HSBC has previously been targeted by supporters of Beijing. Users of China's Weibo social media platform shared screenshots last year of an HSBC employee's Facebook posts supporting the protests. The posts urged readers to complain to HSBC management. "Businesses now have to consider how three different groups will react to their decisions: The Chinese government, Hong Kong protesters, and Chinese consumers," said Kent Kedl, head of Control Risks' Greater China practice.

HSBC begins year with Hong Kong branches closed, vandalised

Key Takeaways From Chinese President Xi Jinping's Visit To Macau. #Gravitas #Macau #XiJinping

Gravitas: Xi Jinping's Macau Visit: A P.R Exercise For China!

President Xi Jinping on Friday said reiterated his stance over foreign interference in its special region, Macau and Hong Kong as he said that it is "entirely China's internal affairs".

Speaking at the ceremony marking the 20th anniversary of Macau's handover to Chinese rule, Xi said, "dealing with these two Special Administrative Regions' (Macau, Hong Kong) affairs is entirely China's internal affairs and none of the business of foreign forces.

"I must emphasise, since Hong Kong and Macau’s return to the motherland, dealing with these two Special Administrative Regions' affairs is entirely China's internal affairs and none of the business of foreign forces," Xi said.

"We do not let any external forces interfere."

Macau returned to Chinese rule on December 20, 1999, with the same "one country, two systems" formula aimed at ensuring a high degree of autonomy under which Hong Kong is governed.

While protesters in Hong Kong, across the mouth of the Pearl River, are furious about what they see as Beijing's erosion of their freedoms, Macau has seen little dissent.

Beijing denies undermining Hong Kong's autonomy and has repeatedly blamed foreign governments, including the United States and Britain, for stirring up trouble in the financial hub.

Xi swore in new Macau chief executive Ho Iat-seng and his administration, which will run the enclave of several islands for the next five years.

Under a large Chinese flag and a smaller Macau one, Xi shook hands with Ho, who was selected in August by a largely pro-Beijing committee in a similar process to the way Hong Kong's leader is chosen.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

President Xi Jinping on Friday said reiterated his stance over foreign interference in its special region, Macau and Hong Kong as he said that it is "entirely China's internal affairs".

President Xi Jinping on Friday said reiterated his stance over foreign interference in its special region, Macau and Hong Kong as he said that it is "entirely China's internal affairs". Speaking at the ceremony marking the 20th anniversary of Macau's handover to Chinese rule, Xi said, "dealing with these two Special Administrative Regions' (Macau, Hong Kong) affairs is entirely China's internal affairs and none of the business of foreign forces. "I must emphasise, since Hong Kong and Macau’s return to the motherland, dealing with these two Special Administrative Regions' affairs is entirely China's internal affairs and none of the business of foreign forces," Xi said. "We do not let any external forces interfere." Macau returned to Chinese rule on December 20, 1999, with the same "one country, two systems" formula aimed at ensuring a high degree of autonomy under which Hong Kong is governed. While protesters in Hong Kong, across the mouth of the Pearl River, are furious about what they see as Beijing's erosion of their freedoms, Macau has seen little dissent. Beijing denies undermining Hong Kong's autonomy and has repeatedly blamed foreign governments, including the United States and Britain, for stirring up trouble in the financial hub. Xi swore in new Macau chief executive Ho Iat-seng and his administration, which will run the enclave of several islands for the next five years. Under a large Chinese flag and a smaller Macau one, Xi shook hands with Ho, who was selected in August by a largely pro-Beijing committee in a similar process to the way Hong Kong's leader is chosen. (With inputs from agencies)

Won't allow foreign forces to interfere in Hong Kong, Macau: Chinese President Xi

China’s President Xi Jinping arrived in Macau on December 18 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of its handover to China and is expected to announce economic perks as a reward for its stability and loyalty as protests rock nearby Hong Kong. #China #HongKong #HongKongProtest

Chinese President Xi Jinping visits gambling hub Macau as nearby Hong Kong seethes

Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to preside over a lavish ceremony in Macau on Friday marking the 20th anniversary of its hand-over to Chinese rule. #Macau #China #Xi-jinping #ChinesePresident

WION Dispatch: Xi-Jinping's 3-day visit to China's special region Macau

In a bid to enforce his stance on 'one-nation - two-systems', Chinese President Xi Jinping embarked on his tour to the island-states of Hong Kong and Macau. 
&nbsp; 
Xi has consistently maintained the national stance that the People's Republic of China will under no circumstances permit foreign powers and forces from interfering in the 'domestic affairs' of the Chinese state - specifically in matters regarding the 'autonomous' regions of Hong Kong and Macau. 
&nbsp; 
Fresh after elections, the Beijing-backed candidate, Ho Iat Seng, was sworn in as only the third chief executive of the autonomous region at a colourful ceremony attended by President Jinping and his wife. 
&nbsp; 
During the ceremony, the President toasted to the renewal of the Chinese nation and praised the region for choosing unity and negotiation over contention.&nbsp;

Xi's visit to the former Portuguese colony - where he announced a slew of supportive policies - is widely seen as a reward for Macau's stability and loyalty towards the mainland. 
&nbsp; 
The former Portuguese colony - Macau has long been seen as a glimmering showcase for the virtues of obeying Beijing. The city's skyline and economy have changed beyond recognition since the Portuguese left in 1999. 
&nbsp; 
Since then, in the decades gone by, the region has gone on to become the world’s largest gambling hub, surpassing the more rebellious Hong Kong along the way. 
&nbsp; 
Chief executive of Hong Kong - Carrie Lam - is also currently in Macau, leading a delegation to meet with President Xi and to inform him that her administration is working toward restoring public order on her island, only 50 km away. 
&nbsp; 
The jubilation being celebrated in Macau is in stark contrast to the mood in Hong Kong. It is believed that in his speech, Xi sent a firm message to the protestors in Hong Kong, suggesting that the autonomous regions should adhere to the administrative system along with the chief executive to promote democracy and reject all sorts of disturbances and interferences from outside. 
&nbsp; 
Protests are very rare in Macau with more than half of the population immigrating from mainland China in recent decades. On the other hand - Hong Kong has been held up with mass protests for seven months now, with no clear end in sight. Thousands of protestors continue to demonstrate in the streets against the Chinese governments alleged 'clamping down' on their freedoms.

In a bid to enforce his stance on 'one-nation - two-systems', Chinese President Xi Jinping embarked on his tour to the island-states of Hong Kong and Macau. Xi has consistently maintained the national stance that the People's Republic of China will under no circumstances permit foreign powers and forces from interfering in the 'domestic affairs' of the Chinese state - specifically in matters regarding the 'autonomous' regions of Hong Kong and Macau.

In a bid to enforce his stance on 'one-nation - two-systems', Chinese President Xi Jinping embarked on his tour to the island-states of Hong Kong and Macau. Xi has consistently maintained the national stance that the People's Republic of China will under no circumstances permit foreign powers and forces from interfering in the 'domestic affairs' of the Chinese state - specifically in matters regarding the 'autonomous' regions of Hong Kong and Macau. Fresh after elections, the Beijing-backed candidate, Ho Iat Seng, was sworn in as only the third chief executive of the autonomous region at a colourful ceremony attended by President Jinping and his wife. During the ceremony, the President toasted to the renewal of the Chinese nation and praised the region for choosing unity and negotiation over contention. Xi's visit to the former Portuguese colony - where he announced a slew of supportive policies - is widely seen as a reward for Macau's stability and loyalty towards the mainland. The former Portuguese colony - Macau has long been seen as a glimmering showcase for the virtues of obeying Beijing. The city's skyline and economy have changed beyond recognition since the Portuguese left in 1999. Since then, in the decades gone by, the region has gone on to become the world’s largest gambling hub, surpassing the more rebellious Hong Kong along the way. Chief executive of Hong Kong - Carrie Lam - is also currently in Macau, leading a delegation to meet with President Xi and to inform him that her administration is working toward restoring public order on her island, only 50 km away. The jubilation being celebrated in Macau is in stark contrast to the mood in Hong Kong. It is believed that in his speech, Xi sent a firm message to the protestors in Hong Kong, suggesting that the autonomous regions should adhere to the administrative system along with the chief executive to promote democracy and reject all sorts of disturbances and interferences from outside. Protests are very rare in Macau with more than half of the population immigrating from mainland China in recent decades. On the other hand - Hong Kong has been held up with mass protests for seven months now, with no clear end in sight. Thousands of protestors continue to demonstrate in the streets against the Chinese governments alleged 'clamping down' on their freedoms.

Chinese President Xi Jinping praises Macau for choosing unity and negotiation over contention

Chinese President Xi Jinping is on a three-day visit to the gambling hub Macau. Speaking at a ceremony marking the 20th anniversary of Macau’s handover to Chinese rule heaped praise on the former Portuguese colony for its patriotism and loyalty but did not refer directly to six months of anti-government protests in the nearby former British colony of Hong Kong. #China #HongKong

China President Xi Jinping visit Macau on its 20th anniversary

China's President&nbsp;Xi&nbsp;Jinping begins a three-day visit to the&nbsp;gambling&nbsp;hub&nbsp;of&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;on Wednesday to mark the 20th anniversary of its handover to China, with security tight and some media barred entry as protests rock&nbsp;nearby&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong.

Xi's visit to the former Portuguese colony, where he is expected to announce a slew of supportive policies, is widely seen as a reward for&nbsp;Macau's stability and loyalty, unlike the former British colony of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong, which has been rocked by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-needs-to-do-more-to-stop-violence-resolve-problems-government-268621">anti-government protests</a> for six months.

Xi, due to arrive by plane later in the afternoon, is expected to announce measures for&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;aimed at diversifying its casino-dependent economy into a financial centre, including a new yuan-denominated stock exchange.

Several&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;journalists, including a reporter for broadcaster RTHK, were barred entry to&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;this week due to security concerns, RTHK said on its website.

Many other media people faced lengthy questioning and had their identification cards photographed as they arrived in the city.

Macau's government did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Xi's visit, his longest official trip to&nbsp;Macau, will include meetings with government officials and business representatives, as well as the swearing-in of&nbsp;Macau's newly chosen Beijing-backed&nbsp;leader, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-briefly-turn-water-cannon-on-protesters-fire-tear-gas-245531">Ho Iat-seng</a>, on Friday.

Macau&nbsp;returned to&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;rule on December&nbsp;20, 1999 with the same "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-can-celebrate-later-hong-kongers-pen-christmas-cards-to-protesters-268663">one country, two systems</a>" formula aimed at preserving autonomy under which&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;is governed.

While protesters in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong, across the mouth of the Pearl River, are infuriated by what they see as Beijing encroaching on their freedoms,&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;has seen little dissent.

Protests are very rare in the territory with more than half of&nbsp;Macau's 620,000 population immigrating from China in recent decades.

Flags and red congratulatory banners fluttered along roads and over buildings around the city in preparation for the anniversary celebrations on Friday.

"Macau&nbsp;is the best, better than&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong.&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;has been taken over by those rioters and we are all affected," said a 73-year-old woman surnamed Cheung.

Transport Restrictions&nbsp;

Still, authorities appeared to be taking no chances.

A&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;resident was arrested by mainland police last week while crossing into&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;on a newly built bridge linking it to&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;and the mainland city of Zhuhai.

Chinese&nbsp;authorities said the man was suspected of involvement in a phone-smuggling syndicate.

The heads of the American Chamber of Commerce in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;have also been barred from entering the city in the run-up to&nbsp;Xi's visit, the chamber heads reported, adding that authorities did not give a reason.

Macau&nbsp;ferry operator Turbo Jet said it was reducing the number of ferry sailings to and from&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;by about half due to security checks. Ferries this week are only operating every 30 minutes compared with every 15 minutes normally.

The changes were made because of "instructions by&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;authorities", the company said on its website.

The city's light rail transit system which opened to the public on December&nbsp;10, will be suspended for three days from Wednesday due to security measures, the operator said.

Beijing has also clamped down on visas since November for mainland residents going to&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;until after the December&nbsp;20 anniversary, as part of the security restrictions, according to Vitaly Umansky, an analyst at Sanford C. Bernstein in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong.

The restrictions would put additional pressure on sliding&nbsp;gambling&nbsp;revenues, he said.

Macau&nbsp;is heavily dependent on the&nbsp;gambling&nbsp;industry with its casinos contributing about 80 percent of government income.

China's President Xi Jinping begins a three-day visit to the gambling hub of Macau on Wednesday to mark the 20th anniversary of its handover to China, with security tight and some media barred entry as protests rock nearby Hong Kong.

China's President Xi Jinping begins a three-day visit to the gambling hub of Macau on Wednesday to mark the 20th anniversary of its handover to China, with security tight and some media barred entry as protests rock nearby Hong Kong. Xi's visit to the former Portuguese colony, where he is expected to announce a slew of supportive policies, is widely seen as a reward for Macau's stability and loyalty, unlike the former British colony of Hong Kong, which has been rocked by anti-government protests for six months. Xi, due to arrive by plane later in the afternoon, is expected to announce measures for Macau aimed at diversifying its casino-dependent economy into a financial centre, including a new yuan-denominated stock exchange. Several Hong Kong journalists, including a reporter for broadcaster RTHK, were barred entry to Macau this week due to security concerns, RTHK said on its website. Many other media people faced lengthy questioning and had their identification cards photographed as they arrived in the city. Macau's government did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Xi's visit, his longest official trip to Macau, will include meetings with government officials and business representatives, as well as the swearing-in of Macau's newly chosen Beijing-backed leader, Ho Iat-seng, on Friday. Macau returned to Chinese rule on December 20, 1999 with the same "one country, two systems" formula aimed at preserving autonomy under which Hong Kong is governed. While protesters in Hong Kong, across the mouth of the Pearl River, are infuriated by what they see as Beijing encroaching on their freedoms, Macau has seen little dissent. Protests are very rare in the territory with more than half of Macau's 620,000 population immigrating from China in recent decades. Flags and red congratulatory banners fluttered along roads and over buildings around the city in preparation for the anniversary celebrations on Friday. "Macau is the best, better than Hong Kong. Hong Kong has been taken over by those rioters and we are all affected," said a 73-year-old woman surnamed Cheung. Transport Restrictions Still, authorities appeared to be taking no chances. A Hong Kong resident was arrested by mainland police last week while crossing into Macau on a newly built bridge linking it to Hong Kong and the mainland city of Zhuhai. Chinese authorities said the man was suspected of involvement in a phone-smuggling syndicate. The heads of the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong have also been barred from entering the city in the run-up to Xi's visit, the chamber heads reported, adding that authorities did not give a reason. Macau ferry operator Turbo Jet said it was reducing the number of ferry sailings to and from Hong Kong by about half due to security checks. Ferries this week are only operating every 30 minutes compared with every 15 minutes normally. The changes were made because of "instructions by Macau authorities", the company said on its website. The city's light rail transit system which opened to the public on December 10, will be suspended for three days from Wednesday due to security measures, the operator said. Beijing has also clamped down on visas since November for mainland residents going to Macau until after the December 20 anniversary, as part of the security restrictions, according to Vitaly Umansky, an analyst at Sanford C. Bernstein in Hong Kong. The restrictions would put additional pressure on sliding gambling revenues, he said. Macau is heavily dependent on the gambling industry with its casinos contributing about 80 percent of government income.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping visits gambling hub Macau as nearby Hong Kong seethes

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China has condemned the recent anti-government protests in Hong Kong and has said that it is Hong Kong's priority to punish violence.

Hong Kong protests: China blames media for spreading panic

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

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

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

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

A former leader of Hong Kong's student-led Umbrella Movement protests has been refused entry to Macau as a "public security" threat in what critics said was a new escalation in Beijing's drive to curb the movement of dissidents.

Yvonne Leung, 25, was a prominent leader of the 2014 pro-democracy movement and the only female student leader to meet with senior government officials at the height of the rallies.

But in recent years she has retreated from the political frontlines.

She was refused entry to Macau on Wednesday, a decision that took some by surprise because of Leung's less prominent public profile.

Leung told AFP that the reason provided to her from authorities in Macau was "strong references that you intend to enter to participate in certain activities which may jeopardise the public security or public order".

She declined to provide further comment, including the purpose of her visit.

Like Hong Kong, Macau is a semi-autonomous part of China. Both cities have freedoms unseen on the mainland thanks to a temporary handover agreement struck by Beijing with the cities' colonial powers.

But activists and observers in both cities say Beijing's increased determination to assert control has led to an erosion of those freedoms and a widening array of movement restrictions on critics.

Hong Kong pro-democracy lawmaker Claudia Mo said Macau's refusal to allow Leung entry represented a "step up" in those tactics and sent "a chilling message that you have to pay your price for being disobedient, being a government critic".

"They try to have this cloud hanging over you," she told AFP.

Authorities in Macau did not reply to requests for comment.

Some prominent pro-democracy activists and Hong Kong journalists have in the past been barred from entering Macau, where the partially elected local government is loyal to Beijing.

Three writers, including bestselling "Wild Swans" author Jung Chang and investigative journalist Suki Kim, dropped out of the Macau Literary Festival last year after authorities there said they were likely to be barred.

Hong Kong has also ramped up the frequency and variety of people banned from entering. Recent examples include a Western journalist and a Taiwanese heavy metal band.

A former leader of Hong Kong's student-led Umbrella Movement protests has been refused entry to Macau as a "public security" threat in what critics said was a new escalation in Beijing's drive to curb the movement of dissidents.

A former leader of Hong Kong's student-led Umbrella Movement protests has been refused entry to Macau as a "public security" threat in what critics said was a new escalation in Beijing's drive to curb the movement of dissidents. Yvonne Leung, 25, was a prominent leader of the 2014 pro-democracy movement and the only female student leader to meet with senior government officials at the height of the rallies. But in recent years she has retreated from the political frontlines. She was refused entry to Macau on Wednesday, a decision that took some by surprise because of Leung's less prominent public profile. Leung told AFP that the reason provided to her from authorities in Macau was "strong references that you intend to enter to participate in certain activities which may jeopardise the public security or public order". She declined to provide further comment, including the purpose of her visit. Like Hong Kong, Macau is a semi-autonomous part of China. Both cities have freedoms unseen on the mainland thanks to a temporary handover agreement struck by Beijing with the cities' colonial powers. But activists and observers in both cities say Beijing's increased determination to assert control has led to an erosion of those freedoms and a widening array of movement restrictions on critics. Hong Kong pro-democracy lawmaker Claudia Mo said Macau's refusal to allow Leung entry represented a "step up" in those tactics and sent "a chilling message that you have to pay your price for being disobedient, being a government critic". "They try to have this cloud hanging over you," she told AFP. Authorities in Macau did not reply to requests for comment. Some prominent pro-democracy activists and Hong Kong journalists have in the past been barred from entering Macau, where the partially elected local government is loyal to Beijing. Three writers, including bestselling "Wild Swans" author Jung Chang and investigative journalist Suki Kim, dropped out of the Macau Literary Festival last year after authorities there said they were likely to be barred. Hong Kong has also ramped up the frequency and variety of people banned from entering. Recent examples include a Western journalist and a Taiwanese heavy metal band.

Macau denies entry to Hong Kong's former activist leader

President Xi inaugurates world's longest sea bridge connecting Hong Kong, Macau & Zhuhai

China today adopted a new law stipulating a three-year punishment for disrespecting the national anthem, which would also be enforced in the specially administered provinces of Hong Kong and Macau.

China&#39;s national legislature, the National People&#39;s Congress (NPC) often referred to as a rubber stamp parliament for its routine endorsement of the ruling Communist Party&#39;s decisions voted and passed an amendment to the country&#39;s criminal law to punish acts of gravely disrespecting the national anthem.

It has also endorsed the adoption of the National Anthem Law to the Special Administrative Regions (SAR) of Hong Kong and Macau, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

The extension of the law to Hong Kong is significant in view of the unrest among the local population over the growing control of China in the SAR which returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

The amendments were passed at the bimonthly session of the Standing Committee of the NPC.

According to the amendment, punishments previously stipulated for national flag and national emblem desecration in public now also apply to serious acts of public disrespect to the national anthem.

Punishments include deprivation of political rights, criminal detention, and imprisonment of up to three years.

The national anthem law, adopted in September, came into force last month to ensure appropriate use of the song.

Those who maliciously modify the lyrics, or play or sing the national anthem in a distorted or disrespectful way in public, can be detained for up to 15 days, and even be held criminally liable, according to the law.

China&#39;s national anthem &quot;March of the Volunteers&quot; has lyrics by poet Tian Han and music by Nie Er.

The song encouraged Chinese soldiers and civilians during the 1937-45 Sino-Japanese War.&nbsp;

China today adopted a new law stipulating a three-year punishment for disrespecting the national anthem, which would also be enforced in the specially administered provinces of Hong Kong and Macau

China today adopted a new law stipulating a three-year punishment for disrespecting the national anthem, which would also be enforced in the specially administered provinces of Hong Kong and Macau. China's national legislature, the National People's Congress (NPC) often referred to as a rubber stamp parliament for its routine endorsement of the ruling Communist Party's decisions voted and passed an amendment to the country's criminal law to punish acts of gravely disrespecting the national anthem. It has also endorsed the adoption of the National Anthem Law to the Special Administrative Regions (SAR) of Hong Kong and Macau, state-run Xinhua news agency reported. The extension of the law to Hong Kong is significant in view of the unrest among the local population over the growing control of China in the SAR which returned to Chinese rule in 1997. The amendments were passed at the bimonthly session of the Standing Committee of the NPC. According to the amendment, punishments previously stipulated for national flag and national emblem desecration in public now also apply to serious acts of public disrespect to the national anthem. Punishments include deprivation of political rights, criminal detention, and imprisonment of up to three years. The national anthem law, adopted in September, came into force last month to ensure appropriate use of the song. Those who maliciously modify the lyrics, or play or sing the national anthem in a distorted or disrespectful way in public, can be detained for up to 15 days, and even be held criminally liable, according to the law. China's national anthem "March of the Volunteers" has lyrics by poet Tian Han and music by Nie Er. The song encouraged Chinese soldiers and civilians during the 1937-45 Sino-Japanese War.

China extends new law over insulting national anthem to Hong Kong

Uber has decided not to pull out of Macau, owing to support from residents of the Chinese-ruled region, an official statement from the company said. 
 
Uber started operations in Macau last year but announced in August that it would pull out of the region because its drivers faced fines totalling up to USD 1.25 million. 
 
Macau&#39;s secretary of security Wong Sio Chak had said the service had violated local laws. 
 
The official statement released by the company said it had received more than 23,000 online signatures supporting its services in Macau. 
 
Uber employs about 2,000 drivers in the former Portuguese colony.&nbsp; 
 
(WION with inputs from agencies)

It had announced in August that it would stop operations because its drivers faced fines totalling up to USD 1.25 million

Uber has decided not to pull out of Macau, owing to support from residents of the Chinese-ruled region, an official statement from the company said. Uber started operations in Macau last year but announced in August that it would pull out of the region because its drivers faced fines totalling up to USD 1.25 million. Macau's secretary of security Wong Sio Chak had said the service had violated local laws. The official statement released by the company said it had received more than 23,000 online signatures supporting its services in Macau. Uber employs about 2,000 drivers in the former Portuguese colony. (WION with inputs from agencies)

Uber says it will not pull out of Macau

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