The third essential feature of Hong Kong's lifestyle safeguarded in
the Joint Declaration is its openness to international trade,
investment and cultural influences. The Joint Declaration and draft
Basic Law guarantee that Hong Kong will retain the status of a free
port, continue a free trade policy and will be able participate in
international trade agreements and relevant international
organisations. Following discussion in the Sino-British Joint
Liaison Group, Hong Kong has already become a Contracting Party to
the GATT and a member of other international organisations. The
residents of Hong Kong will continue to be free to leave the
territory as they please, to study overseas and to emigrate if they
wish. British and other foreign nationals
will also be able to
continue working in the Civil Service, the Police Force and the
teaching profession.
to
All this has been achieved not by confrontation but by accepting the
realities and by working hard to translate the Joint Declaration
into a framework for the future in which Hong Kong can continue
make the most of its opportunities. The British Government remains
firmly committed to the faithful implementation of the Joint
Declaration. We will continue to do everything we can to ensure
that Hong Kong remains a continuing success story, building on
foundations that are already there.
the