Zhang Dejiang: ‘One country, two systems’ is here to stay

I would like to take this opportunity to talk from the heart about my views on “one country, two systems” and issues related to Hong Kong. These could be summarised in three points. The first is: Do not forget the original intent so that we can achieve the ultimate goal. When Deng Xiaoping (鄧小平) first proposed the “one country, two systems” concept as a way to resolve the historic issues related to Hong Kong, what he meant was to resume the power to exercise sovereignty over Hong Kong yet retain its characteristics and advantages as much as possible so as to maintain a sustainable prosperity. Whenever we talk about Hong Kong and “one country, two systems”, we must adhere to the original intent and cannot go against it.

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Here, I would like to talk about a few issues concerning the original intent of “one country, two systems”, which Hong Kong society is particularly concerned about. One is localism. The moon is bright over my home town; everyone has special homeland feelings. I come from the northeast of China and I love my hometown. I am Chinese, and I love my country. Hong Kong compatriots should be respected for cherishing their characteristic way of life and values. As a matter of fact, some basic principles of “one country, two systems” include: maintaining Hong Kong’s social and economic systems and way of life, Hong Kong people ruling Hong Kong and a high degree of autonomy. These are the best ways to take care of the actual circumstances of Hong Kong.

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Today, there is a very tiny minority of people who intend to defy “one country” and the central government. They even advocate the independence of Hong Kong. This is not localism, but separatism under the camouflage of localism, which is contrary to the original idea of “one country, two systems”. I believe the majority of Hong Kong people are aware of this and can judge whether this is a blessing or a curse for Hong Kong.

The second is about the rule of law. Rule of law is one of the core values of Hong Kong society, and is the cornerstone of social stability. It is also the bottom line of freedom. When the cornerstone is shaken, the bottom line can be redrawn; if so, then how can we maintain the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong? Everyone is equal before the law, no one can act above the law, and no offenders can evade legal sanctions for any reason. We hope that the SAR government and the judiciary will effectively fulfil the sacred duty of maintaining the rule of law while strictly enforcing laws and ensuring fair administration of justice. We must not make concessions to law-violating behaviour. Society as a whole should also severely condemn such behaviour, which clearly touches on the bottom line of the rule of law.

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The third issue is about development, which is Hong Kong’s top priority. Hong Kong’s international status is determined by its economic status. The people’s quality of life is inseparable from the development of the territory. All walks of life in Hong Kong must have a sense of urgency, and understand that opportunities once lost are lost for good, and that if we stand still, we risk falling behind. Hong Kong people should focus their attention on economic development, on improving livelihoods and on enhancing across-the-board competitiveness. Disputes do Hong Kong no good and only harm the city’s efficiency and economy. They waste time and can jeopardise the economy and thus people’s livelihood.