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There is a common meeting ground between the
Chinese and British Governments in that both parties are
committed to uphold the terms of the Joint Declaration,
in spirit and in practice.
However, there will be
differences in interpretation of some of the terms from time
to time which will have to be resolved as the occasion
arises. I am sure that both sides will be able to rise to
the occasion.
One of the principal areas which will tax the minds
of all parties concerned has to do with the development of
Hong Kong's political structure between now and 1997, and its
incorporation in the draft Basic Law which is due for
publication in 1990.
The attitude by China is that it is better for the
British Government to make only those changes between now and
1997 as will ensure continued prosperity and stability, and
the smooth return of sovereignty to China in 1997.
China is concerned that should the pace of
political change move ahead too rapidly, Hong Kong's social
stability and economic progress could be at stake. Not only
that, but also such a situation could possibly adversely
affect the smooth transfer of sovereignty in 1997.
Britain, on the other hand, recognizing that it
will have to restore sovereignty and administrative rights to
China by 1997, considers it has a moral responsibility to
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