This archive report was first published on 17 August 2019.
Published on August 17, 2019, a report from AFP highlighted the stark contrast in opinions on Hong Kong's pro-democracy rallies among residents of Shenzhen, a mainland city just across the border.
Many Shenzhen residents told AFP they do not support the protests, which have seen 10 weeks of rallies in Hong Kong. One taxi driver, who wished to remain anonymous, said, "They're just ruining themselves." He added, "What can they do when their economy goes and no travellers want to visit?"
Shenzhen's residents face restrictions on crossing into Hong Kong, which enjoys rights unseen in mainland China. The city was dragged into the unrest after Chinese state-run media reported that elements of the People's Armed Police were assembling there.
State media have broadcast images of Chinese military forces and armoured personnel carriers in the city, raising fears of a possible military intervention by Beijing.
Despite the difference in views, Shenzhen and Hong Kong are moving closer together. Shenzhen was given "Special Economic Zone" status, transforming it from a sleepy fishing village to a technological juggernaut. Beijing has now made it a key part of its "Greater Bay Area" plan, which plans greater integration between Hong Kong, Macau, and mainland Guangdong province.
A new high-speed train between Hong Kong and Shenzhen launched in September, with Chinese security stationed in the territory for the first time at the new West Kowloon rail terminus. However, even among those who agree with the protesters' cause, many find it hard to know where to express support, citing fear of discrimination in Hong Kong.
