PROTESTS: Hong Kong’s leader Lam open to talks, but refuses to withdraw controversial extradition bill

Embattled Chief Executive of Hong Kong, Carrie Lam has informed that she is open to talks with critics of her government, but has stylishly refused to confirm if the controversial extradition bill has been withdrawn.

In a news conference on Tuesday morning, Lam announced that her office “will start immediately a platform for dialogue with people from all walks of life”, while promising to conduct an investigation into alleged police abuse.

“This is something that we want to do, in a very sincere and humble manner,” she said, saying her administration is “committed to listen to what the people have to tell us”.

In further comments, Carrie Lam said that she is hopeful that Sunday’s peaceful protest, which drew as many as 1.7 million people out in the streets, would mean that the semi-autonomous Chinese territory is on its way to peace.

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The development comes days after the Peoples Republic of China issued a stern warning to persistent protesters in Hong Kong warning them that they must not “play with fire”.

In its strongest warning yet over the lingering demonstrations, China says its restraint must not be taken for weakness.

Beijing also added that it’s ‘only a matter of time’ before ‘criminals’ behind protests are punished.

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