Understandable that people are now concerned about presence of any Chinese military in Hong Kong, despite clear stipulation that they will not interfere in internal affairs. This is a new factor
which the Chinese will need to take into account.
UN ROLE IN SUPPORTING GUARANTEES IN JOINT DECLARATION?
We have always sought to mobilise fully international support for
Joint Declaration.
Joint Declaration is an internationally binding Agreement, registered by Britain and China simultaneously at UN.
As I told the House on 6 June, when I presided over 40th
Anniversary meeting of Security Council with the Chinese Foreign
Minister I drew attention in that context to importance of
Agreement reached between us.
International context of Joint Declaration is clearly important.
But do not see scope for more active role by United Nations in safeguarding Agreement.
-
Key consideration is that China should continue to perceive that it is in its own interests to abide fully by provisions of Joint
Declaration.
JONAAY4