The main measure, titled the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, would compel the United States to impose sanctions on officials. That status is separate from the relationship with mainland China, and revoking it would mean less favorable trade conditions between the United States and Hong Kong. “I hope it can act as a warning to Hong Kong and Beijing officials, pro-Beijing people and the police,” said Nelson Lam, 32, a food importer. We are not their foe.”The Chinese Foreign Ministry stopped short of linking Hong Kong in any way to the trade talks, although trade is outside its jurisdiction. Perhaps this move is best understood as a leading indicator that U.S.-China trade talks are essentially done.”

Source: New York Times November 27, 2019 23:16 UTC