CONFIDENTIAL
China : you may also have noticed some which irritate us.
The systems in Hong Kong are based on freedom of expression, and
if that freedown is gealously provected. they can only be successfully preserved of. This means that both you and we must from time to time be ready to take a generous and patient attitude to things we may not always welcome. We must do this in the greater interest of making a success of our joint endeavour.
Both the British and Hong Kong Governments will continue to administer Hong Kong with the long-term interests of the inhabitants in mind. We are not thinking only of the next 8 years. We want our interests in Hong Kong to be preserved indefinitely, and that will only be possible if the SAR after 1997 is prosperous and stable. Whatever differences we may have in the meantime, we have to remember that we share that ultimate goal. And we shall need to cooperate closely to achieve it.
I wish you every success in making this meeting into an important step along that road.
I propose a toast.
CONFIDENTIAL