CONFIDENTIAL
5. But I believe there is a strong case for a timely speech on Asia generally and the Western Pacific in particular. This would usefully restate British priorities and concerns in the region at a time of considerable change both in the North West (Korean Peninsula, Japan and China) and in ASEAN (Cambodia, Viet Nam); no doubt someting could also be woven in about Australasia if that were thought appropriate.
6. I believe it is some considerable time since there was a substantial statement on Asian policy by a Secretary of State (although Sir Geoffrey Howe did have something to say on the subject in Australia during his recent visit there). The Royal Society for Asian Affairs seems to me to be a most suitable platform for a speech which would helpfully demonstrate that British intersts have not been completely usurped by Europe and the Gulf.
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R A Burns
7 November, 1990
CONFIDENTIAL