The Basic Law is the constitutional document of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). Put into effect on July 1, 1997, it enshrines within a legal document the important concept of “One Country, Two Systems.”
Q: Can Hong Kong still conclude and implement agreements with foreign states and regions or international organizations, and participate in international conferences?
A: Hong Kong continues to play an active role in the international arena and maintains close contact with its international partners. The HKSAR may on its own, using the name "Hong Kong, China", maintain and develop relations and conclude and implement agreements with foreign states and regions and relevant international organizations in the appropriate fields.
Since Hong Kong’s return to the Motherland, the HKSAR Government, authorized by the Central Authorities, has concluded over 160 bilateral agreements with foreign states in accordance with the Basic Law, including air services agreements, visa abolition agreements and mutual legal assistance agreements.
In 2013, representatives of the HKSAR Government, using the name of “Hong Kong, China”, participated in over 1500 international conferences not limited to states. (BL Articles 96; 133; 151; 152; 155)