The Old East Agreement Hong Kong: What it is and Why it Matters
The Old East Agreement Hong Kong is a historical treaty that was signed between the United Kingdom and China in 1902. The treaty essentially gave the UK complete control over a small patch of land in Hong Kong, known as the New Territories, for a period of 99 years. This agreement was set to expire in 1997, which ultimately led to the handover of Hong Kong back to China. However, the history and implications of this agreement are still relevant in today`s world.
History of the Old East Agreement Hong Kong
To understand the Old East Agreement Hong Kong, it is important to understand the history of Hong Kong and its relationship with the UK. In the 19th century, the UK gained control of Hong Kong Island after defeating China in the First Opium War. In the following years, the UK gained control over the rest of Hong Kong, including Kowloon Peninsula, and eventually the New Territories through various treaties and agreements.
However, in 1898, the UK signed a treaty with China, known as the Second Convention of Peking, which leased the New Territories to the UK for a period of 99 years. This treaty was set to expire in 1997, after which Hong Kong was to be handed back to China.
Implications of the Old East Agreement Hong Kong
The Old East Agreement Hong Kong has several implications that are relevant even today. Firstly, it signifies the historical colonial relationship between the UK and Hong Kong. The UK`s control over Hong Kong and its territories has left a lasting impact on the city`s culture, politics, and economy.
Secondly, the agreement has significant implications for the governance of Hong Kong. When the agreement expired in 1997, the UK handed over Hong Kong to China under the « one country, two systems » principle. This principle gives Hong Kong a degree of autonomy from China and allows the city to maintain its own legal system, currency, and economic policies. However, in recent years, there have been concerns that China is eroding Hong Kong`s autonomy and violating the principles of the Old East Agreement Hong Kong.
Conclusion
The Old East Agreement Hong Kong is a historical treaty that played a significant role in the relationship between the UK and China, and has important implications for the governance of Hong Kong. While the agreement has expired, its legacy lives on, and its history and implications are still relevant in today`s world. As the world watches the ongoing developments of the Hong Kong protests, understanding the history and legacy of this agreement is more important than ever.