Solve deep-rooted problems, former Beijing official tells Hong Kong
Chen Zuoer says it’s painful yet necessary for city to realise the fact that its rivals are overtaking it in terms of development
Hong Kong’s “one country, two systems” model has proved a success but the city – which has been lagging behind its rivals – should also tackle its deep-rooted problems, former Beijing official Chen Zuoer says.
Chen, a former deputy director of the State Council’s Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, said it was “painful” yet necessary for Hong Kong to realise the fact that its rivals were overtaking it in terms of development.
“How can [the city] catch up with determination when it does not even have the courage to learn from its bitter experience?” Chen told the state-run China News Service in an interview.
While he said the “one country, two systems” principle which safeguards Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy had proven successful, people should also be aware of emerging deep-rooted problems with a clear mind.
“Hong Kong will not be able to develop rapidly and steadily without noticing these problems,” he said.