CHINA PROTEST SUPPORTED

PEOPLE around the world should support the cause for freedom in Hong Kong, Townsville academic and former Chinese resident Professor “Joe” Zhangyue Zhou said yesterday.

Prof Zhou, ( pictured) who has retired from his role as lecturer in business studies at James Cook University, said freedom and democracy were at stake.

“I think people around the globe should support the people in Hong Kong for their cause,” Prof Zhou said.

“If not, this will set a very bad precedent for the future cause of humanity.”

Prof Zhou was honoured for his work at a workshop in Townsville yesterday.

The workshop’s keynote speaker, Professor Ligang Song, director of the China Economy Program at Australian National University, said Prof Zhou had been a “very devoted” teacher and researcher who had made a big contribution to bilateral relations, particularly in agriculture, and to the Chinese Economic Society in Australia.

There have been weeks of tensions in Hong Kong, leading to violent clashes between protesters and police at the airport this week.

Demonstrations began as opposition to China’s extradition-of-dissidents Bill and have spread to wider demands for freedom.

Prof Zhou said the situation was difficult and felt it unlikely either side would yield.

“The worst thing that can happen is that it will end in misery,” Prof Zhou said.

Prof Zhou plans to stay in Townsville and travel in Australia.