Hong Kong police used tear gas on protesters as late-night clashes erupted in the Asian financial hub ahead of a Monday meeting in Beijing between Chinese President Xi Jinping and the city's embattled leader Carrie Lam, Reuters reports.
Why it matters: Violent clashes between police and demonstrators have often left the Chinese territory paralyzed since the pro-democracy protest movement began six months ago. But the protests had been notably peaceful in recent days.
After repeated warnings, Police have to use the minimum force necessary, including deployment of tear gas in Nathan Road and Sai Yeung Choi Street, to disperse protestors and stop their violent acts.
— Hong Kong Police Force (@hkpoliceforce) December 15, 2019
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