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Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao are all inalienable parts of China. Taiwan was once subjected to Japanese colonial rule; Hong Kong and Macao are still under the colonial rule of Britain and Portugal respectively. In 1997 and 1999, China will resume its exercise of sovereignty over Hong Kong and Macao respectively. The "one country, two systems" formula was originally put forward to resolve the Taiwan issue. The formula, however, has been used with success in resolving the Hong Kong and Macao issues. With China smoothly resuming its exercise of sovereignty over Hong Kong and Macao, people will have reason to believe that the Taiwan issue can be successfully resolved in accordance with the "one country, two systems" formula, too, thereby accomplishing China's complete reunification.
Following the return of Hong Kong and Macao to China, Hong Kong-Taiwan relations and Macao-Taiwan relations will be a special component of cross-strait relations. By then, as there will be partial "direct links" between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait, Hong Kong and Macao will play an even bigger role in the development of crossstrait relations. More important, a smooth transfer of power in Hong Kong and Macao and their continuing stability and prosperity will set an important example in settling the Taiwan question in accordance with the "one country, two systems "formula and boost Taiwan compatriots' confidence in accomplishing the reunification of the motherland in accordance with the formula. |
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