Hong Kong extradition bill complicates an already tense US-China relationship

But analysts say that with trade at the top of the agenda, neither side is likely to push too hard on the issue

Beijing summoned US envoy on Friday in protest over Washington’s condemnation of the legislation

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Foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang on Saturday reiterated that Hong Kong’s extradition bill was an internal affair. Photo: AP

Published: 9:57pm, 15 Jun 2019Updated: 11:39pm, 15 Jun 2019

The row between Beijing and Washington over Hong Kong has exacerbated tensions between the two powers, but observers say neither side wants to push too hard because of the high cost involved.

Analysts and diplomatic observers said the tough rhetoric from both mainland China and the United States was unlikely to be followed by any concrete action as they grappled with a broader conflict.

Their protracted dispute has been complicated in recent weeks after US officials expressed “grave concerns” over legislation that would allow Hong Kong to extradite fugitives to mainland China, which has prompted mass protests and violent clashes in the city this week.

The Hong Kong government backed down on Saturday, suspending the highly unpopular bill without saying when it would be reintroduced.

On Friday, Beijing had summoned Robert Forden, deputy chief of mission at the US embassy in the capital, to protest against Washington’s condemnation of the bill. It came after calls from the US Congress to review whether Hong Kong had sufficient autonomy from mainland China to continue enjoying special trade and economic benefits under a 1992 act.

Shi Yinhong, a US affairs expert at Renmin University of China, said the move could have a big impact.

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