As pro-democracy demonstrations in Hong Kong continue to unravel, Chinese officials take an ever more firm stand on what they call ‘illegal’ protests. One Beijing newspaper editorial issued a strong warning against Hong Kong protesters, saying that ‘there will be unimaginable consequences’ if the demonstrations continue. Meanwhile, back in Washington, Foreign Minister Wang Yi who is currently making an official visit to America clearly stated that what is now happening in Hong Kong is an internal affair for China which is the sovereign power. ‘Secretary Kerry mentioned Hong Kong. The Chinese government has very firmly and clearly stated its position. Hong Kong affairs are China’s internal affairs. All countries should respect China’s sovereignty,’ said Yi during a press conference.
On the other hand, Yi’s American counterpart, Secretary John Kerry, pleaded for respect of the protesters’ right to express their points of view in a peaceful manner. ‘We believe an open society with the highest possible degree of autonomy and governed by rule of law is essential for Hong Kong’s stability and prosperity . And we have high hopes that the Hong Kong authorities will exercise restraint and respect the protesters’ right to express their views peacefully,’ said Kerry.
[ads2]
On Wednesday, during the National Day holiday, thousands of demonstrators took to the streets, angry with the Beijing government which wants to exclude Hong Kong candidates out of the 2017 leadership elections. Protesters vowed to take matters even further and begin to occupy government buildings unless Hong Kong’s chief executive doesn’t resign from his position.