Editorial | The onus is now on Hong Kong to show Beijing our true worth
- Instead of asking the central government for more economic largesse as in the past, a fundamental change of mindset is called for
The latest national development strategy mapped out at the annual party leadership meeting has again left Hong Kong in soul-searching mode.
Despite limited references to the city this year, there are unequivocal endorsements of our strengths and commitments to boosting our competitiveness. It is incumbent upon us to seize the opportunities and contribute in a way that benefits both sides.
The communique following the four-day plenum in Beijing ended with just a line on maintaining “the long-term prosperity of Hong Kong and Macau”. The brief statement has, unsurprisingly, drawn different interpretations, ranging from the city being marginalised to what is said to be a diminishing emphasis on ‘one country, two systems”, under which a high degree of autonomy is promised.
Compared to last year, when the party responded to the city’s social unrest with a pledge to establish “a sound legal system and enforcement mechanism for the safeguarding of national security”, the rhetoric this year was relatively moderate. With the national security law now in place, the city has gradually regained its footing to move forward again.
The direction for development was further explained by Han Wenxiu, the deputy director of the Office of the Central Economic and Financial Affairs Commission. In what is seen as affirmation of the city’s strategic value to the state, Han said Hong Kong was the world’s freest economy, with good foundations and talents.
