Don't rely on China
In the past seven years, it seems painfully obvious that our road to greatness is a dead end.
Hong Kong has experienced a serious downturn, unemployment has hit a higher-than-ever rate and suicides continue to soar. Therefore, economic co-operation with China seems the only way out.
But does our government consider its cost? I am anxious that continued integration with the delta region will erode Hong Kong's uniqueness as an international city, making it just another Chinese city.
As we know, Hong Kong's freedom of speech and rule of law and its anti-corruption image are keys to our success. Increasing economic co-operation with the mainland at the same time means the rise of the central government's influence in Hong Kong affairs. I am concerned about the gradual fading of 'one country two systems'.
In addition, over-reliance on China is a naive way to boost our economy. What if the Chinese economy slumps? And over-dependence on China will marginalise our position in the world as our contacts with Europe and America decline.
For example, the government keeps calling on expatriates from the mainland to work in Hong Kong. But why should we confine our vision to such a small picture? Aren't there any professionals from the US, Japan, Europe or Taiwan that we can invite? We should focus on these places as well.
In the eyes of some Hongkongers, China is like a saviour. Yes, China may help, but only for a short period. The introduction of individual visits will not help much once mainlanders find that Hong Kong is no different from their own cities up north. They may not come again.
I hope that the Hong Kong government can fashion a good balance between internationalism and economic integration. After all, losing its international flavour is Hong Kong's worst-case scenario.
ALISON WONG, Tsuen Wan
