The UK has argued that China has reneged on an agreement that took effect in 1997, which offered certain freedoms to Hong Kong for 50 years in return for handing the territory back to Beijing. Here's what you need to know. This years marks the 21st anniversary of the handover of Hong Kong sovereignty from British to Chinese rule.

Robert Fife Ottawa Bureau Chief. Hong Kong was under British control for 156 years, beginning when Hong Kong island was ceded to the UK after a war between the powers in 1842. China agreed to govern Hong Kong under the principle of "one country, two systems", where the city would enjoy "a high degree of autonomy, except in foreign and defence affairs" for the next 50 years. Trudeau condemns China’s encroachment on Hong Kong and invites expats to return home . Ottawa. This is a dark moment for Hong Kong. China broke its deal with Britain 27 years early Is Britain really prepared to admit up to three million Hong Kong people for settlement, as the British foreign minister told parliament last week?

China is openly tearing up the One Country, Two Systems deal agreed with the UK in the 1997 handover.

On July 1, 1997, Hong Kong was peaceably handed over to China in a ceremony attended by numerous Chinese, British, and international dignitaries. Steven Chase.