This archive report was first published on 28 November 2019.
On November 27, 2019, US President Donald Trump signed into law a bill supporting pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong, amidst ongoing protests against the Chinese government.
The Human Rights and Democracy Act mandates an annual review to assess whether Hong Kong has enough autonomy to justify its special status with the US.
Mr Trump signed the law 'out of respect for President Xi Jinping, China, and the people of Hong Kong.'
China's foreign ministry responded by stating it would take 'firm counter measures' and accused the US of 'sinister intentions.'
Mr Trump's decision comes as he seeks a deal with China to end a trade war between the two countries.
However, Hong Kong's government reacted by saying the American bill would send the wrong signal and would not help to ease the situation.
Joshua Wong, a leader of the Hong Kong protest movement, welcomed the US law as a 'remarkable achievement' for 'all Hongkongers.'
Mr Trump also signed a second bill banning the export of crowd-control munitions to the police in Hong Kong, including tear gas, rubber bullets, and stun guns.
He stated that the bills were enacted in the hope that leaders and representatives of China and Hong Kong would be able to amicably settle their differences, leading to long-term peace and prosperity for all.
