Years ago, I read about a conversation between Margaret Thatcher and Deng Xiaoping during the early stage of negotiation on the return of Hong Kong is relevant.
Initially, Thatcher refused to return Hong Kong and Kowloon Peninsular to China, saying that it is ceded to Britain in perpetuality. To which Deng answered calmly : "Then we will take Hong Kong back the same way you take it from us." At that point, the Iron Lady softened.
Not sure if it actually occurred or not. But it just seem fitting to address this poor guy's frustration.
