Trump signs law backing Hong Kong protesters

Donald Trump has signed into law legislation effectively backing civil rights protesters in Hong Kong.

The bill is bound to antagonise Beijing at a time when the president is trying to end a trade war with China.

It requires the State Department to certify, at least annually, that Hong Kong retains enough autonomy to justify favourable US trading terms. It also threatens sanctions for human rights violations.

A second bill banning the export of teargas, pepper spray, rubber bullets and stun guns to the Hong Kong police was also signed by President Trump.

The Hong Kong government has said it strongly opposes the US stance and regrets Mr Trump’s backing for the legislation.

it said it would send the wrong signal to protesters and would not help ease the situation in Hong Kong.

Via Sky News

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