Published : 2025-04-16

On April 16, 1987, Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping met with members of the Hong Kong Basic Law Drafting Committee. 

In his speech, he mentioned that Hong Kong should remain "unchanged for 50 years," and even that "there would be no need for change after 50 years."

At that time, the drafting of the Hong Kong's Basic Law had been underway for a period of time. Deng stated at the beginning of his speech that the success of "One Country, Two Systems" should be reflected in the Basic Law of Hong Kong and serve as an example for Macao and Taiwan.

Deng Xiaoping further emphasised in his speech that Hong Kong must remain "unchanged."

"After Hong Kong returns to the motherland in 1997, the policies will remain unchanged for 50 years, including the Basic Law we have written, which should at least last for 50 years. I would even say that there will be no need for change after 50 years."

Deng Xiaoping also stated that for China to achieve a per capita GDP and total domestic production at the level of moderately developed countries, two conditions are required: political stability and policy stability.

"Stability means no change," he said. "So, I say that after resolving the unification issue according to the guidelines of 'One Country, Two Systems', policies towards Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan will remain unchanged for 50 years, and will continue to remain unchanged even after 50 years."