Deng Xiaoping

Source dates: 22–23 June 1984. “One Country, Two Systems”. Editorial overview.

Deng explains a proposed arrangement under which Chinese sovereignty and different economic and social systems could coexist. In discussing Hong Kong, he promises continuity in its way of life, commercial role and institutions after the planned resumption of Chinese sovereignty in 1997.

He also presents the approach as a possible solution to the Taiwan question. This is a proposal for Taiwan, not a description of an agreement accepted by Taiwan. His argument separates national unification from the immediate imposition of identical arrangements throughout the country.

The text illustrates institutional flexibility within a firm claim to sovereignty. It can inform discussion of negotiated settlements, but its promises need to be distinguished from later implementation and evaluation. This review describes Deng's stated position in 1984 and does not assess the present operation of Hong Kong's system.

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