HONG KONG: The ongoing protests in Hong Kong showing no immediate signs of abating, has been one of the biggest challenges for Beijing.
In what can be taken as a show of might, Chinese paramilitary forces on Thursday conducted military exercises across the border from Hong Kong.
This, as observers, say has raised fears that China could be preparing to act tough against demonstrations in Hong Kong. China has described the demonstration as ‘near terrorism’.
A few hundred of the People’s Armed Police were seen at the Shenzhen sports stadium with over 100 dark-painted paramilitary vehicles were parked.
On Wednesday, China labeled the Hong Kong protests were ‘near terrorism’ after the protesters set upon two persons that they suspected of being government champions.
The government arrested seventeen people on Wednesday. With this, a total of 748 people have been detained since June this year.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested Beijing deal with the protests amicably and humanely while showing his interest to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping to discuss the issue.
US President Trump wrote on Twitter that Chinese President Xi ‘wants and can resolve’ the Hong Kong crisis.
Even the U.S. State Department has expressed concern over the Hong Kong issue saying it was ‘deeply concerned’ over reports that China had gathered police forces near the border with Hong Kong. It has also urged the Hong Kong government to what it said ‘respect the freedom of speech’.
China has repeatedly warned against any ‘outside interference’ in an internal affair.
Similarly, Canada has urged China to handle the crisis with discretion. France has called on Hong Kong authorities to restart dialogue with Hong Kong protesters.
Meanwhile, the Hong Kong airport resumed normal operations today after protestors forced some 1,000 flights to cancel their flights this week.
Back in Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Chinese Securities Association has said that Hong Kong’s reputation would be totally damaged if the protests did not stop soon. (Agencies)
Comment