Australia’s trade deal with Hong Kong supports its unique status within China: minister

Australia wants bilateral free trade deals with Hong Kong, Indonesia and Peru to take effect early next year, the trade minister said Wednesday, adding that the Hong Kong treaty supports its unique status within China.Trade Minister Simon Birmingham introduced legislation into Parliament that would lead to Australia ratifying the three trade treaties, as part of a push to boost the economy via new export opportunities for agriculture businesses.Hong Kong student activists have called for…