SECRET
VISIT OF PUS TO WASHINGTION 21-24 JUNE 1983
FUTURE OF HONG KONG
BACKGROUND
1.
The PUS is familiar with the background.
2. With the Prime Minister's agreement the Americans have been kept
generally abreast of developments. Sir Oliver Wright last brought
Mr Shultz up to date before the latter visited China in February 1983.
3. Since then we have had further contacts with the Chinese in
Peking and there has been an exchange of messages between the Prime
Minister and Premier Zhao. Indications are that the Chinese are keen
to begin substantive talks and we are now working on a mutually
acceptable agenda for them.
NATIONAL PEOPLE'S CONGRESS
4. At the opening session on 6 June, Premier Zhao limited his
remarks on Hong Kong to the following :-
"We shall, at an opportune moment, recover Chinese
sovereignty over Hong Kong and take appropriate
measures to maintain its prosperity".
SECRET
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