*****************************************

"One Country, Two Systems" has become a reality in Hong Kong, the Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa told a visiting US Congressional delegation today (Friday).

"Judicial independence and the rule of law in Hong Kong are being implemented and protected according to the Basic Law," Mr Tung said.

The Chief Executive made these remarks at a luncheon meeting with the delegation, led by Representative Matt Salmon, held at Government House. Representative Sander Levin, who was on a visit in Hong Kong, also attended the luncheon.

During the luncheon, Mr Tung briefed the Congressmen on a wide range of issues in Hong Kong, including the implementation of "One Country, Two Systems" and how Hong Kong tackled the Asian financial crisis.

He said, "The concept of 'One Country, Two Systems' was unprecedented in history. Since July 1, 1997, this has been fully implemented in Hong Kong according to the Basic Law. All the institutions which protect human rights, freedoms and democracy are in place and working well. These include an independent judiciary, the full range of freedoms including that of speech and assembly, and a free press. These are protected by the Basic Law and the Bills of Rights."

Mr Tung also briefed the delegation on constitutional development. He said, "Elections to the office of Chief Executive and the Legislative Council have been held according to the Basic Law. The Basic Law has laid down a 10-year timetable to enable us to consider the next step forward in the light of our political experience during that time. Our hope is that by 2007, a mature view will have emerged in the community on the development of the political structure which will help us to decide on the strategy and the steps needed for its further development."

On the question of the Right of Abode, Mr Tung said that the course of action taken by the Government to request the State Council to seek an interpretation from the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPCSC) was entirely legal and constitutional. This was supported by a majority of Legislative Councillors at the time.

"The constitutionality of the interpretation by the NPCSC has now been confirmed by the Court of Final Appeal (CFA). The CFA decision represents the highest judicial authority in Hong Kong," he said.

Mr Tung added that according to opinion polls, a majority of Hong Kong people supported the route of interpretation.

"The Right of Abode issue, which has been around for almost one year, has been resolved according to the law and in the overall interest of Hong Kong," he said.

Photo: The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, hosted a luncheon at Government House for a US Congressional delegation led by Representative Matt Salmon. Representative Sander Levin, who is visiting Hong Kong, was also invited.

End/Friday, January 14, 2000

NNNN