Australia must use relationship with China to protect Hong Kong protesters

The Australian Greens are calling on the Chinese Government to respect the calls from tens of thousands of protestors in Hong Kong who are campaigning for democracy and universal suffrage.

"The right to peaceful protest is a hallmark of democracy, as is the right of people to nominate for election. A free vote is not truly free when there are only vetted candidates to choose from," said Greens Leader Christine Milne.

"The people of Hong Kong aspire to a healthy and prosperous future based on their commitment to democracy.

"I call on the Australian Government to raise the issues of universal suffrage and the right to peaceful protest with the Chinese Government," said Senator Milne.

"Everyone wants a peaceful resolution to this crisis in Hong Kong . Civil and political rights, as well as economic wellbeing are central to our own way of life and must be afforded to the people of Hong Kong."