Clearly ... presumably with Taiwan in the background. I don't think the Chinese much care about these territories or Russia's announced, preferred, status except what it means for them domestically again Taiwan.

Surely it's occured to them that maybe Britain wants HK back cause, you know, things are not clear. Not that the British would be that dumb --- but it's an argument that cuts multiple ways none good.

Finally,you gotta believe china sees Russia currently as a giant baby sitting project well considering how that plays well for china.