Increasing tensions due to protests in Hong Kong are causing countries to issue warnings regarding travel to the city. UAE asked travellers to be cautious and avoid government buildings and those near them while visiting Hong Kong. They have also warned people not to wear black or white during their visit as these colours seem to have become the colours of the protest movement.
In a video on Twitter, the pilot for the national airline can be heard saying: “There’s a very peaceful and orderly demonstration at Hong Kong International Airport. All they demand is the withdrawal of the controversial extradition bill. Don’t be scared by all these people wearing black shirts and sitting in the arrivals hall.”
Hong Kong is seeking to reassure visitors to the city. An email attributed to an unidentified government spokesman conceded recent road blockages and confrontations between police and protesters had caused inconveniences but said they were confined to limited areas.
The travel industry, along with the government were working to minimize disruptions to visitors. Tourist arrivals had dropped 26% at the end of last month compared to last year and were continuing to fall in August.
US too has issued warnings to travellers planning to visit Hong Kong, asking them to exercise increased caution. “Since June 2019, several large scale and smaller political demonstrations have taken place in various areas of Hong Kong. Most have been peaceful, but some have turned confrontational or resulted in violent clashes. The protests and confrontations have spilt over into neighbourhoods other than those where the police have permitted marches or rallies. These demonstrations, which can take place with little or no notice, are likely to continue,” the advisory warned. Other countries that have issued similar messages to travellers are Australia, Britain, Ireland, Japan, and Singapore.
More protests are planned for this weekend including at the city's bustling international airport.
