Hong Kong should protest at overseas bans
I refer to the coverage in your newspaper of the appalling and unjustified discriminatory tactics imposed on Hong Kong athletes and citizens by Jamaica, Ireland and Taiwan, among other countries.
It angers me that such countries have been swayed by the Sars hysteria which is sweeping the globe, thanks in part to international media hype. I would have no qualms about either visiting Hong Kong or welcoming its residents to New Zealand.
It is time for Hong Kong people to show some initiative in fighting back. It is all very well to protest through diplomatic means and intense lobbying, but the quickest and most effective way to show other countries that Hong Kong is not a pushover is to adopt a strategy of aggression.
Use the international media to advantage. Hong Kong government and other officials should demand coverage from worldwide broadcasters. They would state their anger and frustration at the illogical and discriminatory restrictions and ask, in front of a global audience, why such countries feel that a blanket health ban is necessary when the WHO says it is not. Absurdities such as allowing visitors from Hong Kong into Ireland while banning Hong Kong's Special Olympics athletes should be pointed out.
Hong Kong companies should sponsor the remaining 22 athletes' trips to Dublin, scheduling them to arrive at the same time as the Hong Kong team. Arrange for CNN and BBC cameras to film the arrival of the Special Olympics athletes. They could give interviews pointing out that they are allowed to compete, whereas the other half - if Ireland is to be believed - are free to roam the country spreading Sars. The absurdity would not be lost on a global audience.
Hong Kong people can do their part too, especially involving Taiwan, undoubtedly the most ineffective country in containing Sars. It is difficult to see why anybody would want to visit Taiwan as a tourist now. I urge people to spend their money elsewhere.
It is time to let the world know that Hong Kong will not tolerate unwarranted discrimination.
ANNE STEELE, Auckland
