A reminder of who's the real boss: White paper timed to prove Beijing's authority over HK
Timing of the white paper shows Beijing is determined to prove its authority as Hong Kong tears itself apart in debate over political reform
The State Council's "white paper" on Hong Kong shows Beijing's determination to maintain control amid the debate over political reform, according to two experts familiar with Beijing's policies towards the city.
The vice-president of the Chinese Association of Hong Kong and Macau Studies, Lau Siu-kai, said, given the white paper's contents, he expected Beijing would become more involved in guiding the city's governance.
The anniversary arrived as the city was locked in a debate about full autonomy - and even independence - in Hong Kong.
By issuing the paper, Beijing has sought to establish its unquestioned authority over Hong Kong as residents debate the meaning - and the flexibility - of the "one county, two systems" concept.
That principle has allowed a freer, capitalist city to grow within socialist China.