Xi draws uncrossable ‘red line’

Performers sail on a decorated ship near the area where ceremonies marking the 20th anniversary of the citys handover from British to Chinese rule are taking place, in Hong Kong, China July 1, 2017. REUTERS/Damir Sagolj

Hong Kong: China’s President Xi Jinping said Hong Kong was freer than ever before, but laid down an uncrossable “red line” for any challenge to Beijing’s authority as the city marked 20 years since it was handed back by Britain.

Xi spoke in a televised address after swearing in new Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam.