The Hong Kong Handover in 1997 marked the return of the former British colony of Hong Kong to Chinese sovereignty. After 156 years of British colonial rule, the territory was officially handed over to China on July 1, 1997. Under the “One Country, Two Systems” policy, the region was granted a high degree of autonomy that allowed different economic and social systems to continue within its borders.
The handover was preceded by a great deal of media attention and diplomatic negotiations. In 1984, the Sino-British Joint Declaration specified the terms of the transfer, including the establishment of a socialist system in the mainland and a capitalist system in Hong Kong. In June of 1997, the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), which outlined the region’s specific autonomy, was accepted by the National People’s Congress Standing Committee.
On July 1, 1997, the formal handover ceremony took place in the new British territory, the Kowloon Bay Convention Center. The ceremony, facilitated by both Britain’s Prince Charles and China’s President Jiang Zemin, featured the lowering of Britain’s flag and the hoisting of the Chinese flag as well as a speech by the Chinese premier.
In his speech, President Jiang Zemin announced China’s commitment to easing the transition period for Hong Kong citizens. He noted that Beijing would continue to honor the “One Country, Two Systems” policy and declared that Hong Kong would enjoy a high degree of autonomy, freedom of news and information, independent judicial power, free port status, and preferential trade policies, among other things. He also reminded those listening that Hong Kong would remain part of the People’s Republic of China.
Over the past two decades, the region has generally maintained its political stability, economic prosperity, and strong international presence. In 2017, further integration with the mainland occurred as the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR, Carrie Lam, visited Beijing to meet with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang. During their meeting, both leaders praised the progress made in the 20 years since the handover and agreed to further cooperation in finance, trade, and technology.
The handover of Hong Kong remains a watershed moment in Chinese and international history. While there have been occasional instances of protest and unrest, it has generally allowed for the preservation of Hong Kong’s distinct identity and economic success. By allowing for certain freedoms in the form of civil liberties, religious expression, and private enterprise, the “One Country, Two Systems” policy has largely maintained the region’s stability and prosperity. As such, the handover of Hong Kong in 1997 is celebrated as a successful example of cooperation and peaceful transition in the area of foreign affairs.