15:10
DRU. EID. KOME.
RESTRICTED
South Africa
14. Minister Borga said that Italy was in favour of UK proposals on sporting links with South Africa. Mr Greenstank pointed out that the ANC were stepping up their loopying in capitals. The Danes continued to be difficult over relaxation of sanctions.
Middle East
15. Mr Greenstock confirmed that the UK position on Libya remained unchanged. As regards the Lebanon/Syria agreement, this was better than total chaos but was humiliating for Lebanon, where it had lille popular support. Minister Borga agreed, and lamented that we would not now see the sort of Lebanon we had hoped for. It was a shame that such was the price that had had to be paid for Syria's role in the Gulf crisis. He announced that Prime Minister Andreotti would be leaving on 1 June for a tour of the Middle East, where he would be promoting US and Soviet efforts on agreement between Israel and others.
16. On Iran, Mr Greenstock said that the UK would be grateful if partners could continue to press the Iranians on the hostages issue. Minister Borga was amenable to this. He promised that the issue would be included in Andreotti's briefing for his visit to Tehran in September.
Far East
17. Minister Borga confirmed that, in response to the Secretary of State's request, De Michelis had raised Hong Kong "in very firm terms" during his visit to Peking.
The Chinese response would be an important element in their evaluation of China's relationship with the Community. Mr Craenstock expressed appreciation.
NATO Summit
18. Asked about the likely timing of the NATO Summit in Rome, Minister Burga-said no decision had yet been made. Dates Lowards the end of November looked the most likely option.
RESTRICTED
/Exchanges