New Chinese University chief Rocky Tuan keeps it short on questions of Hong Kong independence
Rocky Tuan Sung-chi meets media for first time and vows to serve university as ‘open-minded and respectful’ principal
The new head of the Chinese University of Hong Kong touted the official line of “rational and peaceful discussion” in response to questions on independence advocacy in the city at his first official meeting with the media, which lasted for a mere 15 minutes on Wednesday morning.
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Asked whether he would order the removal of banners and posters advocating Hong Kong’s separation from China if they appeared on campus again, Tuan said sensible discussions and respect for disparity must be preserved while defending free speech and academic autonomy.
“Freedom of research and speech are the fundamental and core values of the university, which we will definitely defend and strengthen. Meanwhile, I do hope that discussions can be conducted in a rational and peaceful way,” Tuan said.
“We must respect others’ ideas. And the university has a clear stance and procedures [to handle the banners].”