The ultimate aim of “One country, two systems” is to allow citizens of Hong Kong to elect the Chief Executive (CE) and the legislature (LegCo) by universal suffrage. The National People’s Congress of China ruled out universal suffrage in 2004 for CE and LegCo elections 2007 and 2008, prohibiting the people of Hong Kong from electing their representatives. The election of CE since then has been heavily influenced and manipulated by the Chinese government.
Why would US need to support genuine universal suffrage in HK?
1. Secures US economic interests in HK
2. Supports democracy and freedom in HK through specific action
3. Displays US support of democracy and freedom