‘Dread and terror’ or ‘happy, relaxed’? Body language experts break down Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam’s meeting with Xi Jinping
- One observer says chief executive was bundle of nerves at face-to-face meeting with Chinese president, but another finds her to be at ease
- Lam continues to keep political pundits guessing on her ambition for a second term, however, as body language experts come away with little on that front
Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor’s duty visit to Beijing, which wrapped up on Thursday, was closely watched for any signs of the chief executive’s chances or interest in seeking a second term.
It gained special significance also because the occasion marked Chinese President Xi Jinping’s first public in-person meeting in nearly a year with a top official from outside the mainland.
While Xi gave nothing away - and he was not expected to - two body language experts who analysed video footage showing the start of Xi and Lam’s meeting held contrasting views on the vibes between both parties.
Dr Leow Chee-seng, a professor of non-verbal communication and human behaviour at the IIC University of Technology in Cambodia, said Lam appeared to be nervous and lacking in confidence when she walked into the room to greet Xi.
But Kiki Wong, a local body language expert, argued Lam was happy to be there and appeared relaxed.
