China Official Says Hong Kong Autonomy Could Last Beyond 2047

  • Xia Baolong says unique arrangement could go another 50 years
  • Hong Kong’s freedoms have already been eroded by security law

The Hong Kong skyline viewed from Victoria Peak.

Photographer: Paul Yeung/Bloomberg
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Hong Kong’s “high degree of autonomy” from China could last for 50 years after legally expiring in 2047, a top Beijing official said, despite China’s greatly expanded control over the financial hub in recent years.

Xia Baolong, director of the mainland agency responsible for Hong Kong, made the comments Wednesday to delegates from the finance hub at China’s annual parliamentary sessions in Beijing, local media outlets including HK01 reportedBloomberg Terminal.