03-SEP-1991 07:10
JAMES LEE
PREMIER LI
PENG/PRIME MINISTER MAJOR MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDI NG
J
PEKING
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3 SEP 91
V
6
P.07
from 1 July 1997. For its part, China is equally committed to
maintaining Hong Kong's existing systems for 50 years thereafter.
The Hong Kong Speciial Administrative Region will enjoy a high
degree of autonomy in all matters except foreign and defence
affairs. We are agreed that Hong Kong people will run Hong Kong.
We have also solemnly confirmed our approach to the transition
period. Up to 30 June 1997, the British Government are
responsible for the administration of Hong Kong with the object of
maintaining and preserving its economic prosperity and social
stability; the Chinese Government will give its cooperation in this connection.As we are agreed there is no question of the
Chinese Government seeking any veto, condominium or joint
administration. Instead, what is happening is what the Joint
Declaration laid down clearly the intensification of our
cooperation during the second half of the transitional period.
Mr. Premier, this is a good Agreement. When Douglas Hurd was
here in April, General Secretary Jiang Zemin talked about the
transitional period before us; he used an old Chinese proverb
about how people travelling in the same boat need to help each
other whatever difficulties may come between them. I think that
is a good metaphor. Our shared objectives have always been
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clear Hong Kong's continuing prosperity and stability.
Joint Declaration set our course; the Memorandum of
The