In 1983, officials working in the British Foreign Office joked about moving the whole population of Hong Kong to Northern Ireland. They were considering this option. The proposal was made in response to mounting fears about the future of Hong Kong once British rule is no longer in effect.
The idea was never taken seriously, and in the end, Hong Kong remained under British authority until 1997, when it was finally transferred to Chinese administration. Nevertheless, the suggestion brings to light the significant worries that a great number of British officials had regarding the future of Hong Kong at the time.Additionally, the proposal highlights the robust historical ties that have existed between Hong Kong and Northern Ireland.
Northern Ireland provided a significant number of the original settlers for Hong Kong, and ever since those early days, the two regions have remained economically and culturally connected.