4
Implementation of
The Sino-British Joint Declaration
0564
THIS was another fruitful year in the implementation of the Sino-British Joint Declaration on the Question of Hong Kong.
The close co-operation and liaison that have been built up over the past three years between the British and Chinese sides have paved the way for good progress to continue to be made in both the Joint Liaison Group and the Land Commission. It was also an important year in that the Draft Basic Law for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China (For Solicitation of Opinions) was published in April.
The Sino-British Joint Liaison Group
The Sino-British Joint Liaison Group (JLG) was established in accordance with the provisions of Annex II to the Joint Declaration. Its functions are to conduct consultations on the implementation of the Joint Declaration, to discuss matters relating to the smooth transfer of government in 1997, and to exchange information and conduct consultations on such subjects as may be agreed by the two sides. As the JLG is an organ for- liaison, and not an organ of power, it plays no part in the administration of Hong Kong.
The JLG comprises a Senior Representative and four other members on each side. Supporting staff and experts also attend meetings as appropriate. In accordance with the provisions in Annex II to the Joint Declaration, the JLG has since July 1, 1988 taken Hong Kong as its principal base. The establishment here of the Offices of the British and Chinese Senior Representatives has made possible an even closer working relationship between the two sides, thus facilitating discussion in the JLG. The JLG will, nevertheless, continue to hold plenary sessions at least once in every annual cycle in London and Peking as well as in Hong Kong. The fourth cycle of meetings began with the tenth meeting which took place in London from September 20 to 23 and was followed by the eleventh meeting in Hong Kong from December 6 to 9.
Since its establishment, the JLG has built up a solid record of achievements in the implementation of the Joint Declaration. Its meetings are conducted in a friendly and co-operative atmosphere which assists the two sides in finding practical and flexible solutions to the complex and unique problems with which they are presented. The overriding consideration of the two sides is to find solutions in the best overall interests of Hong Kong and its future.
Defence and Public Order
Both in the JLG itself and in talks at expert level between JLG meetings, discussions continued during the year on the implementation of the Joint Declaration in respect of defence and the maintenance of public order. Agreement was reached on various practical