both parties should state clearly in the Honghur clause
their intention to see Hongkong progress further on the path of democratisation of lousl government, of the rule of law and of economic prosperity and social stability.
(iii) Procedure
Although this treaty is not enacted solely for the sake of Hongkong, it affects the lives and prospects of the people of Hongkong to a very great extent. Prior to the official conclusion of the treaty, public opinion from Hongkong'
residents should be solicited in order to strengthen their sense of participation and to enhance their understanding of the true meaning of the treaty, which consists in bringing about a normal relationship of co-operation between the two nations, clearing-up all the complications left by the historical accidents, and serving the interests of China and other parties concerned, without involving national pride or disgrace, lest deviated responses should be aroused. When the treaty, is concluded and signed, representatives of the government and the people of Hongkong should be officially present to bear testimony to the undertaking pledged by both the Chinese and the British authorities to the people of
Hongkong.
(iv) Duration
The duration of effectiveness of the treaty should be sufficiently long. There should at any rate be no fewer than thirty years in order to give guarantee that all the co- operation programmes can be implemented in a period of time long enough to be deemed stable. Amendments and renewals should be handled in accordance with internationally accepted
precedence. It should however, be stated clearly that any amendment or renewal must comply with the aspiration and well being, i.e., the advice and consent, of the people of Hongkong.