re: Standoff between Police and Students at the Chinese University of Hong Kong

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Oh China will deal with this problem and in exactly the manner they wish. And though we can worry about it if we want, there is little we can do about it.

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To be clear, I lived in Hong Kong and have a great deal of affection for the city.

I also know the dynamics of the China/Hong Kong relationship well enough to know that China cares deeply about its international perception at the moment.

If the world completely ignores what's happening in Hong Kong, I have no doubt that China will commit horrible atrocities to bring people in line and destroy what is a remarkable city.

However, I also believe that the only chance Hong Kong has to preserve its unique culture and status is if foreign governments remind China that they're keeping a close eye on the situation. The China of today is different from the 1980's. They desperately want to be perceived as a part of the global community, not as a pariah. Keep in mind that just about every major government official in China sends their child to a top American or UK university. They also own property throughout the world.

And if you think this isn't important, then ask yourself what will happen when China is emboldened and attacks Taiwan by force.