TRANSFER OF THE SOVEREIGNTY OF HONG KONG Meaning and
Definition
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Transfer of the sovereignty of Hong Kong refers to the process through which the control and governance of Hong Kong was transferred from the United Kingdom to the People's Republic of China. This significant event took place on July 1, 1997, marking the end of British colonial rule in Hong Kong and the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).
The transfer was based on the Sino-British Joint Declaration, signed by the United Kingdom and China in 1984. According to this agreement, Hong Kong was to be governed under the principle of "one country, two systems." This meant that while Hong Kong would retain its capitalist economic system, it would come under Chinese sovereignty and abide by the socialist political structure and policies of China.
The transfer of sovereignty allowed the establishment of a high degree of autonomy for Hong Kong, with its own legal system, legislative council, and civil liberties protected under the Basic Law. The Basic Law serves as the constitutional document for the HKSAR, safeguarding its autonomy and preserving the freedoms and rights enjoyed by Hong Kong residents.
The transfer of sovereignty of Hong Kong was a historic milestone that marked the end of centuries of British colonial rule and the beginning of a new era under Chinese sovereignty. While the process of transferring sovereignty was generally peaceful, some concerns have been raised regarding the preservation of Hong Kong's autonomy and the guarantee of its citizens' rights amidst political developments in recent years.
