Hong Kong protesters to rally for Catalan separatists for independence

Protesters in Hong Kong reportedly plan to hold demonstrations on October 24 in support of Catalan separatists in Spain. The scenario in Spain is similar to the protests in Chinese-ruled Hong Kong as millions in either country have raised their voices demanding freedom. While Hong Kong vents its anger over Beijing’s tightening grip on the city, Catalan separatists call for a separate nation for Catalonia and not to be part of Spain. In Hong Kong, protesters seek greater democracy while a smaller group demands independence which is a red line for Communist Party leaders in Beijing.

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Hong Kong supports Catalonia

“United We Stand Against Tyranny”, read a poster advertising Thursday’s demonstration of solidarity with protesters in Catalonia featured the slogan.

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Protesters were called in at 11:00 GMT at Chater Garden in the heart of the financial centre to demonstrate their support for Catalonia which is one of the few rallies with a permit. On Sunday, many demonstrators in Hong Kong were reportedly seen waving the Catalan flag. At the same time, in the other end of the world in Spain, students from Catalonia boycotted classes and protesters stood at strategic targets to cause maximum disruption, including the airport serving Barcelona - similar to strategies used by Hong Kong activists. Catalan protesters are angry over the conviction of Catalan separatists and also demand independence. On the other hand, some Hong Kong protesters asked people to not attend Catalan separatist rally calling it provocative. 

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Hong Kong protesters are mad and violent: Chinese Foreign Minister

Xie Feng, the Commissioner for the Chinese Foreign Ministry in Hong Kong, said in a speech on Thursday,  that Hong Kong protests are not peaceful but violent and mad. He further claimed that the purpose of the Hong Kong opposition and the foreign forces behind it is to disrupt Hong Kong, overthrow the legitimate government, and seize the power of governance. He said that they want Hong Kong to have a separate system which is a delusion. Hong Kong is China’s Hong Kong, he quoted.

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(With inputs from agencies)