Nations Open Doors For Hong-Kongers

Several nations have come out in the support of Hong-Kongers amidst the strict measures implemented by China, which controls the country in a special manner. Summachar Coverage: What Is Hong Kong Security Law And It’s History?

Crux of the Matter

Hong Kong-China Connection After the expiry of the 99 year lease, Hong Kong was transferred to Chinese control by the British. HK is tied to China by the “1 country, 2 systems” provision, which grants it significant autonomy while remaining under the Chinese control. The most conspicuous example of the autonomy of HK is its economy, which is based on a free-market model while China remains under the Communist Party rule.

Hong Kong Security Laws China recently passed the “Security Law” for Hong Kong, which criminalizes “secession, subversion and collusion” against the Chinese government. These laws would restrict the freedom of HK citizens while infringing on fundamental civil rights, which have been described by experts as “draconian“. In 2019, massive protests broke out in Hong Kong against the controversial Extradition Law. These troubles compounded with Covid-19, HK was one of the first countries to fall into recession in 2020.

Support From Outside Hong-Kongers have received support from countries all over the world, with several nations extending support for them to escape the authoritarianism of the Chinese government.

1. Taiwan has opened a special office to help Hong-Kongers who wish to stay there to escape the “draconian” laws.

2. UK, which controlled HK till 1997, has provided a “new route” to HK citizens to settle there. More than 3 million HK citizens would be eligible for the emigration.

3. Australia described itself as “a great immigration nation” for the escaping HK citizens and extended visas for them.

Sanctions On China Besides extending support to the Hong-Kongers, several nations have imposed sanctions on China for its oppressive measures.

1. Australia terminated its extradition treaty with Hong Kong over concerns regarding its autonomy.

2. US passed a law to penalize American banks doing business with Chinese officials. It has also banned the visas of Chinese officials participating in measures against HK and Uighur Muslims.

3. Canada suspended its extradition treaty with HK, while reportedly aiming for modifying immigration laws for HK citizens.

Hits On Chinese Business The imposed sanctions have also been augmented by countries diminishing their business deals with China and its companies.

1. India recently banned 59 Chinese apps including TikTok, UC Browser, etc. over security concerns, coming in the light of recent borders clashes with China. After the move by India, US President Trump is also planning to ban TikTok and other Chinese apps.

2. The UK government is close to banning Huawei products from 5G networks over company’s data sharing with the Chinese Govt, with several European nations expected to follow the suit.

3. France recently supplied weapon upgrades to Taiwan after China’s attempts to dissuade failed. China considers Taiwan as a part of its own, which the latter rejects.

In a show of strength, the US sailed two aircraft carrier ships USS Ronald Reagan and USS Nimitz in the South China sea on July 6. Shortly afterwards, it flew a B-52 Nuclear Bomber jet in the region.

Curiopedia

1. Holes in Hong Kong’s skyscrapers are called Dragon Gate. According to the Chinese principle, Feng Shui, these holes allow dragons to fly; because it is believed that blocking a dragon’s path could bring misfortune.

2. The Praya Reclamation Scheme was a large-scale land reclamation project carried out by the Hong Kong Land company in Colonial Hong Kong. The first reclamation project eventually began in 1868 and was completed in 1873. It added significant land to Praya Central, which later became present-day Des Voeux Road(Hong Kong).

3. As of 2018, Hong Kong Stock exchange has 2,315 listed companies with a combined market capitalization of HK$29.9 trillion. It is reported as the fastest growing stock exchange in Asia.

Curated Coverage

1. The Telegraph – Taiwan offers refuge to fleeing Hong Kong citizens

2. BBC – Hong Kong: UK makes citizenship offer to residents

3. NDTV – Australia Suspends Extradition Deal, Extends Visas For Hong Kong Citizens

4. Hindustan Times – Canada’s Trudeau has exposed China’s attempt at hostage diplomacy

5. Al Jazeera – US Congress backs sanctions over China’s Hong Kong security law

6. Scroll – By keeping Huawei out of UK’s network, Boris Johnson may have shut the door on it in the West

7. Reuters – Focus on COVID-19 battle, France tells China after Taiwan warning

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