...In Confidence
DRAFT
BRIEF
To:-
CONFIDENTIAL
Type 1 +
From
Telephone No., Ext.
Department
LAJVIA
SECRETARY OF STATE'S VISIT TO THE SOVIET UITOR, 9 11 CCTOBER 1977
BRIEF NO 7: SINO-SOVIET KELATIONS
Line bo Take
1. We have been following recent developments in China with interest. ller new leaders seem to be keeping closely to foreign policy positions laid down under Chairman Mao. Internally there are signs of change, especially a more realistic approach to China's economic problems. How do our Soviet colleagues now see relations with China developing?
2. (Defensive) (If asked about defence sales to China):
strategic exports to any country are only made after very careful consideration. In the case of China no projects have been undertaken since the 1975 kolls-koyce contract for the sale of Spey aero-engines and their technology.
3. (If asked about the restrictions on the visits of . Soviet ships to Hong Kong): these are primarily a matter for the Hong Kong Government. Hong Kong is self-evidently a special case.
Background
4. The Russians have given no indication that they intend to discuss China. if time allows, however, it would be
useful to hear Gromyko's comments on the new Chinese leadership.
Chinese Internal Politics
5. Following the 11th Communist Party Congress in
/ August
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