2010 hostage crisis talks hit snag as Manila rejects 'apology' request
Victims' families unhappy over use of word 'sorrow', even as they hold out hopes of a deal
Talks with the Philippines over the 2010 hostage incident appear to have hit a snag after Manila rejected Hong Kong's request to use the word "apology" in its planned apology statement.
Manila opted for the word "sorrow" instead, which the families of the Hong Kong victims found unacceptable.
The families were briefed by Chief Executive's Office director Edward Yau Tang-wah and Secretary for Security Lai Tung-kwok on Manila's stance late Tuesday evening.
They expressed reservations about Manila's use of the word "sorrow" and asked the officials to reflect their views to the Philippine side.
It was learned that Manila had in previous talks never expressed objection to using the word "apology", which is one of the families' four major demands.
The word "sorrow" was used in 2010 when Philippine President Benigno Aquino, on behalf of the nation and its people, offered Hongkongers his condolences.