The Cabinet says it supports Hong Kong’s democratic movement.
Hong Kong has seen weeks of protests since early June, protests that show no signs of abating. The protests began in response to a controversial extradition bill that would have allowed the extradition of criminal suspects from the territory to Mainland China. The bill has since been suspended, but protestors continue to demand that it be withdrawn entirely and to call for more freedoms.
Speaking at a press conference, Cabinet spokeswoman Kolas Yotaka spoke about the Taiwanese government’s stance on the protests.
"The Cabinet would like to reiterate its stance. We think the protests are a movement for freedom and democracy rather than violence or chaos as is claimed by the Chinese authorities. Therefore, the government is willing to support the movement and is calling on the Hong Kong government to listen to [its people] and respond positively to public demands," said Yotaka.
When asked whether Taiwan will offer Hong Kongers humanitarian assistance. Yotaka said that applications for residency and immigration will be handled in line with existing rules.
