China's takeover of Hong Kong served several purposes

However, as an ethnic Chinese, I offer the following alternative views.

First, in granting Hong Kong special status, China’s intention was to use that place with the best financial and social infrastructure as a gateway to the world. It also served as a learning curve for the Chinese leaders to view capitalism at its best. The late Milton Friedman, a leading economist, used to call Hong Kong what capitalism should ideally be. No, it was not an act of kindness, but a strategic move to the world arena. 

Second, in granting that status, respectability was immediately earned.

Third, because of the success of Hong Kong, Taiwan could follow suit.

Finally, the division from youngsters is unavoidable because of higher education. There are no textbooks teaching students how to live happily in two-system states, but they commonly teach you the normal human rights of freedom of choice and free speech. 

So, when you are young, if you are not a socialist then you have no heart; but when you are old and you are still a socialist, then you have no head.

Believe me, there is no free lunch in the eyes of any Chinese.

Songdej Praditsmanont

Bangkok