Hong Kong protests: Leung refuses to step down as leader

Hong Kong's Chief Executive CY Leung has reportedly said that he will not resign but has offered to initiate talks between his government and the pro-democracy protesters in an attempt to end the political stalemate.

The chief executive said that he will not step down from his post because he has to continue the work for elections but added that he has appointed the chief secretary to represent the Hong Kong government to meet with the representatives of the Hong Kong Federation of Students to discuss "constitutional development matters," reported the BBC.

The leaders of mass demonstrations have welcomed the proposal but still insist that Leung should step down saying that he has "lost his integrity."

China has been facing the ire of the pro-democracy activists for its decision to vet the candidates for the 2017 Hong Kong elections.

Meanwhile, protesters have surrounded two Hong Kong government buildings, but have been warned against occupying them.