Professor Priscilla Leung addressed a group of WTO experts and scholars from around the world on the topic: “The Significance of ‘One Country, Two Systems’ in International Law – From Sovereignty Disputes to Peaceful Reunification.”
As a member of the Hong Kong Legislative Council and a professor of law, I deeply appreciate the importance of law in resolving disputes peacefully. The recent global instability has prompted me to reflect anew on the meaning of “One Country, Two Systems,” the World Trade Organization (WTO), and international law.
During a recent exchange with a European parliamentarian in Abu Dhabi, they remarked that without WTO rules, military conflict could become inevitable. This struck me very deeply, as we in peaceful Hong Kong have rarely thought about the threat of war.
I was encouraged to see that at the Two Sessions in Beijing this March, it was clearly stated that China will remain a strong supporter of the WTO and is committed to safeguarding world peace. This reflects China’s firm stance on upholding international law and the global order. “One Country, Two Systems” not only applies to Hong Kong and Macau, it also serves as a potential model for peacefully resolving issues in other regions.
As one of the world’s freest economies, Hong Kong offers a stable environment for international trade and investment. The American Chamber of Commerce recently acknowledged Hong Kong’s contributions, noting that it has helped create over 140,000 jobs in the U.S. domestic market. Nonetheless, in this current global climate, political and policy stability are crucial for sustaining investment confidence.
Hong Kong must uphold its common law system and serve as a vital bridge between China and the world. I previously submitted a proposal to the National People’s Congress advocating for the application of Hong Kong’s common law system in the Greater Bay Area, which received support from the central government. As a result, Zhuhai and Shenzhen now allow foreign-invested enterprises linked to Hong Kong to choose Hong Kong law as the governing law, and to adopt mechanisms such as “Hong Kong capital, Hong Kong law, Hong Kong arbitration” within the Greater Bay Area.
Moreover, Hong Kong is set to establish an International Mediation Center, offering a peaceful way to resolve cross-border disputes.
I believe that law is not only a system—it is one of humanity’s greatest achievements. In today’s world, beyond traditional legal topics, issues such as artificial intelligence and space exploration law are becoming increasingly vital. These areas will directly affect humanity’s future development and security. I will continue working to promote legal values, and to protect peace and prosperity.
