One country, two systems

Some have portrayed it as a move toward a planned economy, a further shift toward the mainland model, or even a sign that Hong Kong's distinctive system is changing.

But is that really what the plan says? What's behind these narratives? And what does the five-year plan actually mean for Hong Kong, its economy, its governance, its relationship with mainland, and the future of one country, two systems? Today, we go beyond the headlines and take a closer look at Hong Kong's first five-year plan with Dr.

Joseph Mahoney, professor of politics and international relations at East China Normal University.

Great to have you, professor.

The plan sets direction, the policy address delivers year by year, the budget funds it, and there's annual reporting.

Now, that is an upgrade in how Hong Kong governs itself.

Still one country, two systems, still a free market, but with a longer horizon and a paper trail.

Dr. Zhoumi, what's your take on one highlight in this plan?

It says its purpose is to set a strategic direction and identify priorities.

And how should we understand this new planning approach in Hong Kong's own economic system? And how can the city pursue closer alignment with the national development while preserving its own features of one country, two systems here?

Yes, yes.

Thank you for the question.

It's the place that proved a Chinese city could stay free under China's flag.

"One Country, Two Systems" was the slogan.

Universal suffrage someday was the promise.

The United Nations Covenants were committed to, to give an added sense of insurance.

He's 29.

He started getting involved with One Country, Two Systems when he was 17. he will be, no doubt, imprisoned for life.

And I have a lot of time for the Chinese community, Chinese people, Chinese government to a certain extent.

Everyone is doing their best, but I do believe a bit of leniency and clemency should be shown with a bright young boy who was simply pursuing what he passionately believed was to be legally the status quo.