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China's Xi: Hong Kong Had Its 'Grimmest' Year Since Handover

Associated Press

   BEIJING - Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated his support for Hong
   Kong's embattled leader on Monday even as he declared that the former
   British colony has faced its "grimmest and most complex year" since its
   return to China.

   Xi praised Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam for holding fast to the
   principle of "one country, two systems," and for courage and commitment
   during an "extraordinary period" for Hong Kong, where Lam has faced
   harsh criticism for how she has handled months of fiery anti-government
   protests.
   Lam briefed Xi and Premier Li Keqiang during her first visit to Beijing
   since pro-democracy candidates swept local Hong Kong elections last
   month in a clear rebuke of her administration.
   Hong Kong has been "haunted by this social unrest," Lam said at an
   evening news briefing, adding that the Chinese leaders called the
   situation "unprecedented."
   "Given the severity of the situation and the difficulties that we are
   facing, I can say that the leaders are fully appreciative of the
   efforts needed," she said. "I am heartened because we know that our
   work to stop the violence hasn't ended. We are not out of this crisis
   yet."
   Hong Kong was returned to China in 1997 under a "one country, two
   systems" framework that promises the city more democratic rights than
   are allowed on the mainland. In recent years, however, the arrests of
   booksellers and activists have stoked fears of a growing encroachment
   by the ruling Communist Party.

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