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CONFIDENTIAL #3
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3.
Mr Yang noted that the people of Guangdong welcomed
and supported the Joint Declaration. It was gratifying that
the problem of Hong Kong had been resolved through peaceful
negotiation and consultation. Hong Kong was a sensitive place
and felt "fluctuations" on the mainland.
Mr Yang stressed that
China's policies were stable. There was no reason to change
19
them since they benefitted the people of China and Hong Kong's
prosperity and stability. The "one country two systems'
concept and the policy of "no change for 50 years" would be
good for Hong Kong and Guangzhou. Past contacts with Mr Boyd
and Sir David Akers-Jones had been good. If there were any
problems the two sides could always discuss and resolve them.
For example, with Hong kong's help more people on the mainland
could now visit Hong Kong and their relatives.
4.
Mr Clift noted Mr Yang's comments on Hong Kong's
sensitivity to events on the mainland and thanked him for his
assurance that China's policy towards Hong Kong would not
change.
Following on from the success of the Joint
Declaration, it was important that the two sides should pay
attention to the links between Guangdong and Hong Kong.
Co-operation was in the interest of both sides. He then
requested a briefing on economic developments in the province,
in particular those relating to communications.
G.F. 326
CONFIDENTIAL # 3