The statement is also endorsed by 69 individual signatories.

It stresses that, similar to Hong Kong, Japan's current regime also ignores public opinion and implements non-democratic policies, including reactionary labor law reform, the expansion of military bases in Okinawa and the restarting of nuclear power plants. The young people and students of Hong Kong, through their occupation, have greatly encouraged the Japanese people.

The statement also distinguishes between occupations. One is Japanese Imperialism’s occupation of Hong Kong during the Second World War, which was evil. The other is the Hong Kong people’s occupation of major roads to demand democracy, which is glorious. Towards the end the statement appeals for solidarity between Asian working people across the countries.

Read the statement (Chinese only).