fermer (97
DSR 11C
approach, with due regard to the sensitivities involved.
13. The British Government discusses the future of
Gibraltar with a fellow member of the European Community
and of NATO. Whereas Argentina launched an unprovoked
military attack in 1982, the Spaniards are committed to
pursuing their claim by peaceful means. Other essential
differences are that Spain recognises the validity of the
British title to the Rock under the Treaty of Utrecht,
whereas Argentina refuses to acknowledge British
sovereignty over the Falklands.
Spain's attitude to the
rights of the inhabitants is also markedly different.
Furthermore, the British Government acknowledge that the
Treaty of Utrecht gives Spain first refusal if Gibraltar
ever ceases to be British. Against this background, the
British Government have been prepared to discuss
sovereignty with Spain in good faith.
people of Hill-
The inhabitants were
14. In the case of Hong Kong the lease on 92% of the
area was due to expire in 1997.
consulted about the arrangements
Government for the future of the
reached with the Chinese
most Territory and expressed
MMG the themselves overwhelmingly content with them. All parties
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دمق
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as
share the aim of maintaining Hong Kong's stability and
its people
prosperity and of enabling the inhabitants to plan peacefully and confidently for theirfutureth
confidence.
Relations with Argentina
15. The British Government have proposed setting aside
the issue of the Falkland Islands, on which positions are
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