Security clamp for Xi’s Hong Kong visit
PRESIDENT Xi Jinping arrived in Hong Kong yesterday to mark 20 years since its return to China by Britain, with activists under arrest as authorities sought to avoid embarrassment during anniversary celebrations.
A huge security operation shut down large parts of the throbbing city, with thousands of police deployed to keep away demonstrators angry at Beijing’s tightening grip on the freedoms of nearly eight million people.
The lockdown reflects Beijing’s concern that nothing should be allowed to taint the high-profile visit, ahead of a key Communist Party congress later this year.
It is expected that Xi’s position will be cemented at the congress as the most powerful Chinese leader in a generation.
More than 20 activists – including Joshua Wong and young legislator Nathan Law – remained in custody after being arrested for causing a nuisance during a protest against the ruler of China on Wednesday night.
The three-day visit is Xi’s first since becoming leader in 2013, and three years after huge pro-democracy protests crippled the semi-autonomous city for months as Umbrella Movement campaigners camped on thoroughfares.
Xi’s choreographed trip began with his arrival at Chek Lap Kok airport with his wife, singer Peng Liyuan, to be welcomed by a marching band and flag-waving children.
He pledged support to Hong Kong and said he wanted to ensure the continuation of its “one country, two systems” set-up, which is enshrined in the hand-over deal and gives it rights unseen on the mainland.
But pro-democracy campaigners say the system is being eroded by Beijing.
Animosity towards Beijing is growing, particularly among young people. – AFP