Twenty-five years ago, what was then the British Crown Colony returned to the arms of China. On today’s anniversary, criticism came from the US, among others: Foreign Minister Antony Blinken speaks of an “erosion of autonomy”.
The former British crown colony of Hong Kong celebrated the 25th anniversary of its return to China on Friday with the inauguration of new head of government, John Lee. The metropolis’ former security chief – a staunch follower of the leadership in Beijing – vowed to promote integration into the mainland system. In other respects, too, it was a birthday to Beijing’s taste: Chinese President Xi Jinping and his entourage were able to celebrate the festival undisturbed by protests.
At the flag ceremony, the Honor Guard marched not in British fashion, but in the goose step of Chinese soldiers. The Hong Kong democracy movement, on the other hand, has fallen by the wayside. A protest march – as usual on July 1 – was out of the question. Authorities urgently warned against crowds. Police officers patrolled much of downtown.
REUTERSSince its return on July 1, 1997, Hong Kong was to be governed under the “one country, two systems” principle. Hong Kongers were also promised at the time that they could enjoy a “high degree of autonomy” and many political freedoms by 2047. However, in response to the ongoing anti-government protests, Beijing introduced a strict “security law”. in the financial metropolis two years ago, crushing the pro-democracy movement.
As soon as he arrived, Xi Jinping made it clear how pleased he was with the result. The metropolis has overcome “great challenges” and “has risen from the ashes”, the head of state said on his first visit in five years. Since returning, Hong Kong has enjoyed “true democracy,” the president said in a speech on Friday. He committed himself to the principle of “one country, two systems” – but this had to be implemented “correctly”.
REUTERSThe President further underlined that Hong Kong can only be ruled by “patriots”. The security law and “improvements” in the electoral system have taken the southern Chinese city “from chaos to prosperity”. The new prime minister, Lee, has replaced his predecessor, Carrie Lam, who has been repeatedly criticized for quelling protests. Lee was responsible for this as head of security.
Observers warn of new crackdowns
International observers paint a critical picture of the situation. Since the enactment of the “security law”, which can be used arbitrarily against democracy activists and Beijing critics, many speak only of “one country, one system”. Hong Kong experienced “one blow after another,” said Katja Drinhausen of the China Institute MERICS in Berlin. She cited arrests, electoral and educational reforms, and the dissolution of liberal media and civil society organizations as examples. “Beijing definitely sees itself confirmed in the course it has taken and will encourage the Hong Kong government to introduce more repressive measures.”
On the occasion of the anniversary, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken lamented an “erosion of autonomy” in Hong Kong. It is now clear that officials in Hong Kong and Beijing no longer see “democratic participation, fundamental freedoms and independent media” as part of the “one country, two systems” principle.
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson promised: “We will not give up on Hong Kong”. He also complained that China has not adhered to the “one country, two systems” principle “in some time.” Taiwan’s Prime Minister Su Tseng-chang made a similar statement, criticizing the loss of “freedom and democracy” in Hong Kong.
The Chinese leader’s speech on Friday marked the culmination of two days of celebrations in Hong Kong. His visit took place under strict protective measures in view of China’s strict zero Covid strategy. Anyone who came close to Xi had to undergo daily PCR tests and spend several days in a quarantine hotel.
Parts of Hong Kong were cordoned off for the celebrations, and reporting was severely curtailed. Several Hong Kong opposition groups said they had been warned against the protests. At least nine people were arrested in the run-up to the anniversary.
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(APA/dpa/AFP)