Despite frequent reiteration by China's leaders that 'one country, two systems' is to persist, cynicism and conspiracy theories abound. Optimists expect the new-era Patriots Administration to restore stability and prosperity. Yet sceptics wonder if the city still enjoys a high degree of autonomy and political freedom. Some even perceive the city as going downhill compared to the mainland. The central government clearly expects Hong Kong to continue to be 'special' and different from mainland cities. Under the changing local and national circumstances, as well as the impact of worsening global geopolitics, can Hong Kong maintain its distinctiveness and purposefulness? How can the once vibrant and self-confident metropolis be reinvigorated?
