Hong Kong is called "Hong Kong China" to indicate its status as a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People's Republic of China, a status established after the 1997 handover from the United Kingdom to China under the "One Country, Two Systems" principle. This principle allows Hong Kong to maintain its own capitalist economic and political systems, legal system, and external relations while being a part of China, which uses a socialist system.
Historical Context
- British Colonial Rule: Hong Kong was a British colony for over 150 years following the First Opium War.
- The Handover: In 1997, Britain returned the territory to China.
"One Country, Two Systems" Principle
- Constitutional Basis:
This principle, proposed by Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping, is a constitutional framework for the reunification of China.
- Autonomous Status:
Under this principle, Hong Kong functions as a SAR with significant autonomy, retaining its own multi-party legislature, legal system, and separate customs territory.
- External Relations:
Hong Kong maintains its own external relations, represented by the name "Hong Kong, China" in international contexts, such as at the Olympic Games.
The "Hong Kong" Name Origin
- Meaning:
The name "Hong Kong" is a romanized version of a Cantonese phrase meaning "Fragrant Harbour".
- Historical Significance:
The name referred to a small inlet with freshwater from the Pearl River or the smell of incense being stored for export from the area.
Bd-pratidin English/Lutful Hoque
