Editorial | Double delight for Hong Kong on 27th anniversary of return to Chinese rule
- The central government has given the city not one but two gifts to mark the occasion: a pair of giant pandas; and permits for non-Chinese permanent residents to travel across the border
Gifts to mark historic official anniversaries can speak volumes for goodwill, whether symbolic or practical. The central government has expressed both kinds of sentiments with its gifts to Hong Kong on the 27th anniversary of resuming sovereignty over the city. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu saved news of the symbolic gift of a new pair of giant pandas – the living national emblem – until the end of his speech at yesterday’s flag-raising ceremony to mark the occasion.
The significance of the gift goes beyond symbolism. The two new giant pandas promise to be a draw for the city that can help revive the post-pandemic fortunes of both the tourism industry and Ocean Park and add to the buzz for these endangered species for a new generation. The other “gift” to Hong Kong could really be a game changer, especially for the business community.
It came in a policy announcement from Beijing amid rejoicing over the panda gift. The mainland authorities will issue travel permits to non-Chinese permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macau from July 10. The permit, valid for five years, will enable the holder to make multiple trips, for up to 90 days each time, and even use the fast-track e-gates. This can also cover overseas Chinese holding foreign passports and their families – including foreign-born children – once they have settled in Hong Kong for seven years.
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July 1 celebrations mark 27th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to Chinese rule
This will enhance Hong Kong’s role as a superconnector between the mainland and the world. It will make it more practicable for expatriates and others to base themselves in Hong Kong and travel north regularly. It will also boost connectivity with the Greater Bay Area economic powerhouse, and beyond.
Any concerns that it may come at the cost of the local economy are short-sighted. The positive impact on business will outweigh them and enhance the city’s appeal, especially to international companies that want to locate their base or offices in the region. On balance, it should give a much-needed boost to the city’s economy.
Local companies, for example, could be more open to hiring permanent residents with foreign passports, and receptive to the value they bring to the table.
The ultimate vision might well be seamless travel within the bay area, and five-year, fast-track entry and exit permits for up to 90 days are a huge step forward from where we are now.
