Hong Kong cancels China national day fireworks amid protests
Hong Kong has called off an annual fireworks display marking China's National Day as pro-democracy protests show no sign of ending.
The city issued a terse statement Wednesday saying the Oct. 1 show over its famed Victoria Harbour had been canceled "in view of the latest situation and having regard to public safety."
While specific plans have not been announced, major protests are expected on that day, which marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party-governed People's Republic of China.
Pro-China supporters wave Chinese national flags in a shopping mall in Hong Kong, Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2019. Activists involved in the pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong appealed to U.S. lawmakers Tuesday to support their fight by banning the export of American police equipment that is used against demonstrators and by more closely monitoring Chinese efforts to undermine civil liberties in the city. (AP PhotoKin Cheung)
Hong Kong has experienced often-violent demonstrations all summer as many residents fear their rights and freedoms are being eroded by the mainland Chinese government. The semi-autonomous territory has a separate legal system under a "one country, two systems" framework.
Pro-China supporters wave Chinese national flag in a shopping mall in Hong Kong, Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2019. Activists involved in the pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong appealed to U.S. lawmakers Tuesday to support their fight by banning the export of American police equipment that is used against demonstrators and by more closely monitoring Chinese efforts to undermine civil liberties in the city. (AP PhotoKin Cheung)