TNAG-1627-FCO40-2241-Relations-between-Hong-Kong-and-Macau-1987 — Page 96

JOINT DECLARATION OF THE GOVERNMENT OF

THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

AND

THE GOVERNMENT OF

THE REPUBLIC OF PORTUGAL ON THE QUESTION OF MACAO

The Government of the People's Republic of China and the Government of the Republic of Portugal have reviewed with. satisfaction the development of the friendly relations between the two Governments and peoples since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries and agreed that a proper negotiated settlement by the two Governments of the question of Macao, which is left over from the past, is conducive to the economic growth and social stability of Macao and to the further strengthening of the friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries. To this end, they have, after talks between the delegations of the two Govern- ments, agreed to declare as follows:

1. The Government of the People's Republic of China and the Government of the Republic of Portugal declare that the Macao area (including the Macao Peninsula, Taipa Island and Coloane Island, hereinafter referred to as Macao) is Chinese territory, and that the Government of the People's Republic of China will resume the exercise of sovereignty over Macao with effect from 20 December 1999.

2. The Government of the People's Republic of China de- clares that in line with the principle of "one country, two sys-

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