The two major pro-China newspapers Ta Kung Pao and Wen Wei Po eulogised the historical achievements of Deng in editorials.
While Wen Wei Po emphasised Deng's leadership in smashing the Gang of Four and guiding China out of the debacle of the Cultural Revolution, Ta Kung Pao focused on his 'scientific conception' of one country two systems in returning Hong Kong and Macau to Chinese sovereignty. In doing so, Deng had safeguarded the future of a unified China, Ta Kung Pao said.
'One country, two systems' was a key scientific element in Deng's construction of socialism with Chinese characteristics, it said.
This policy directed the return of Hong Kong to China and resolved the fundamental questions of the territory's long-term stability and prosperity. The people of Hong Kong and all Chinese owed him a debt of gratitude.
Wen Wei Po said: 'Deng suffered false criticisms during the Cultural Revolution and the struggles initiated by the Gang of Four. But he persisted and achieved victory in the end.
'Under his leadership, he destroyed the Gang of Four. He was at the helm of the greatest turning point in the history of New China, initiating reforms and concentrating the country's powers and potential to build a modern socialism that is suited to new conditions in the world.'
