Bilateral agreements applicable to HKSAR
Bilateral agreements concluded by the HKSAR on its own
Article 151 of the Basic Law provides that 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, including the economic, trade, financial and monetary, shipping, communications, tourism, cultural and sports fields.
Bilateral agreements concluded with the authorisation of the Central People's Government (CPG)
The Basic Law provides that the HKSAR may, with the CPG's authorisation or assistance, negotiate and conclude the agreements with foreign states or regions in certain areas. The relevant provisions include:
- In accordance with Article 96 of the Basic Law, with the assistance or authorization of the Central People's Government, the Government of the HKSAR may make appropriate arrangements with foreign states for reciprocal juridical assistance.
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In accordance with Article 133 of the Basic Law, acting under specific authorizations from the Central People's Government, the Government of the HKSAR may:
(1) renew or amend air service agreements and arrangements previously in force;
(2) negotiate and conclude new air service agreements providing routes for airlines incorporated in the HKSAR and having their principal place of business in Hong Kong and providing rights for over-flights and technical stops; and
(3) negotiate and conclude provisional arrangements with foreign states or regions with which no air service agreements have been concluded.
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In accordance with Article 155 of the Basic Law, the Central People's Government shall assist or authorize the Government of the HKSAR to conclude visa abolition agreements with foreign states or regions.