Demonstrators have been barricading roads, surrounding government buildings while facing off against—and clashing with—riot police.
Opponents fear the controversial bill would allow China to target political dissidents in Hong Kong, undermining the"one country, two systems" agreement active since the former British colony was handed back to Chinese control by the U.K. in 1997. The system allows Hong Kong residents personal and political liberties not enjoyed on the mainland under the Communist Party's totalitarian rule.
The statement said the"hearts of all freedom-loving people were moved by the courage of the one million men and women of Hong Kong who took to the streets on Sunday to peacefully demand their rights, defend their sovereignty and denounce this horrific extradition bill." McConnell added that the protesters represented a"broad cross-section of Hong Kong's diverse society...all committed to preserving the personal freedoms and judicial independence that have made Hong Kong such a special and prosperous city."he"could not agree more" with a State Department statement registering its"grave concern" with the proposed legislation.
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