As we commemorate the 42nd anniversary of the \"One Country, Two Systems\" principle, it's essential to reflect on its significant impact on Hong Kong and Macao. Originally proposed by Deng Xiaoping in 1982, this framework aimed to ensure peaceful reunification with the Taiwan region by allowing special administrative regions (SARs) to maintain distinct legal, social, and economic systems while being part of one country.
Embedded in Article 31 of the Constitution of the People's Republic of China (PRC), this principle paved the way for the creation of Hong Kong and Macao SARs in 1997 and 1999, respectively. These regions have since held unique positions in international affairs, operating as non-sovereign actors with the ability to engage in global trade and diplomacy.
One of the key aspects of the \"One Country, Two Systems\" framework is the autonomy granted to Hong Kong and Macao in maintaining their memberships in international organizations like the World Trade Organization (WTO). By being recognized as separate customs territories under the names \"Hong Kong, China\" and \"Macao, China,\" both SARs have sustained their openness to international trade, allowing seamless access to global markets.
Hong Kong has leveraged its WTO membership to robustly defend its trade interests. A notable example occurred in December 2022 when Hong Kong successfully resolved a trade dispute with the United States. The U.S. had implemented discriminatory measures against products from Hong Kong by altering their country of origin labels. The WTO panel ruled such actions inconsistent with the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, affirming Hong Kong's commitment to fair trade practices.
On the other hand, Macao has exemplified economic resilience by maintaining its status as a free port, refraining from imposing tariffs on imports. This strategic choice has made goods more accessible to both residents and visitors, enhancing Macao's appeal as a global tourism and business hub. Macao's seamless integration into the WTO without engaging in trade disputes has earned it praise as a \"role model among the WTO members.\"
Looking forward, the principles established under \"One Country, Two Systems\" continue to shape the dynamic roles of Hong Kong and Macao on the world stage. Their ability to balance autonomy with national unity serves as a pivotal case study in international relations and economic strategy, offering valuable insights for emerging markets and global policymakers.
Reference(s):
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