Carrie Lam promises to protect human rights, freedom in HK

"On the rally that happened on December the 8th, in general, it [was] peaceful and orderly," Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Chief Executive Carrie Lam told reporters on Tuesday, noting that the government respects people's rights to free and peaceful assembly.

She stressed that the HKSAR government will continue to take all-out effort to protect the human rights and freedom of Hong Kong residents. The police issued a letter of no objection for a public gathering and a following procession in Hong Kong Island on Sunday. 

"Unfortunately, we still [saw] some people set fires, vandalize shops and block roads," she said and condemned the arson attacks at the High Court and the Court of Final Appeal buildings in Central.

"We don't want to see any political figures to go overseas and post groundless allegations against Hong Kong," Lam said, urging foreign governments to stop interfering in Hong Kong's affairs.

She noted that some politicians must bear the responsibility for the society descending into chaos and urged Hong Kong politicians to stop smearing the city's reputation. 

Answering to some questions regarding the new district council, Lam said she expects the new members to respect rules and conventions, and that the government will continue to listen to all parties who work hard and care about regional affairs.

"My priority now is to restore law and rule in Hong Kong," Lam reiterated.

According to a statement issued by HKSAR government late Tuesday, Lam will pay a duty visit to Beijing from Saturday to the following Tuesday to discuss the latest economic, social and political situation in Hong Kong.