An annual fireworks display in Hong Kong marking China’s National Day on Oct. 1 was called off Wednesday as pro-democracy protests show sign of ending. city issued a terse statement saying show over its famed Victoria Harbour h been canceled “in view of latest situation and having regard to public safety.” Major protests are expected on Oct. 1, which will be 70th anniversary of founding of Communist Party-governed People’s Republic of China.

Hong Kong Protest 

Hong Kong has experienced often-violent demonstrations all summer as many residents fear Chinese government is eroding rights and freedoms semi-automous territory is supposed to have under a “one country, two systems” framework. protests have divided city. Dozens of supporters of China waved Chinese flags and sang national anm in a mall on Wednesday, while anti-government protesters booed m. Plainclos police escorted m out of mall, and officers formed a human chain to prevent clashes with or side. At a similar rally at mall last weekend, what started as heckling turned violent as people tred blows, some using umbrellas to hit ir opponents.

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New ways to Protest

anm singing has sought to counter a newly penned protest song sung by democracy supporters in malls. protests also led Hong Kong Jockey Club to cancel horse racing on Wednesday night. Some protesters h suggested targeting club because a horse owned by controversial pro-Beijing lawmaker Junius Ho was due to run, public brocaster RTHK reported. “Our concerns are tied to potential social unrest in vicinity tonight, very real threat of a disturbance or possible violence at Happy Valley Racecourse, and uncertainty regarding transportation ... for racegoers, jockeys and employees and horses throughout evening,” club said in a statement.

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