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CALL ON THE SECRETARY OF STATE BY MR KEITH VAZ MP, MONDAY
9 SEPTEMBER 1991
BCCI
Points to make
Fundamentally a banking issue, but we are very concerned about foreign policy implications.
UAE
Our Ambassador in close touch with Abu Dhabi authorities.
They agreed from outset that BCCI is best handled by the
financial authorities.
Know that those close to Shaikh Zayed have good
understanding of our position. But recognise that some
will feel let down.
- We are keeping the situation under close review. Do not
think the time is right for me or another Minister to go to Abu Dhabi. Have received strong advice from many different quarters to let matters there run their course for the time-being.
But recognise the need to keep in touch with senior members of the government.
- I hope to meet Foreign Minister Rashid Abdullah at UNGA.
Will send a Minister to Abu Dhabi if this seems helpful or appropriate; when the time is right (perhaps in the slightly longer-term) will keep open the possibility of going myself.
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