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arrangements (MFA for example) is essential to the EC. It is in the EC's interest to safeguard the quarantees of Hong Kong future as set out in the Joint Declaration.
Clearly, Hong Kong as a crown Colony remains essentially a UK prærogativa. However, the EC should gradually and increasingly involve itself in the affairs of Hong Kong for reasons of prudence and using the PRC's successful argument in favour of involvement before 1997 in the airport issue.
Clearly, until 1997 Hong Kong remains paramountly in the sphere of UK/China relations, but after 1997 the UK will have discharged its duties and the EC will be the partner for the new Hong Kong with special status in the PRC.
So while it was prudent and proper of the PRC to insist on cooperation before 1997 on the airport to safeguard its interests after 1997, it is by the same logic, prudent of the EC to take an active interest in Hong Kong before 1997 in order to better discharge its duties after 1997.
The Hong Kong government office plays a constructive and active role in promoting good relations and in solving trade disputes. It is essential that this role continues and that safeguards given in this regard in article 156 of the Basic Law are honoured after 1997.
Equally, the arrangemant must be reciprocated. The EC Hong Kong Delegation is well overdue. Its speedy establishment would not only enhance the EC presence in an important trading area it would provide a focal point for trade with Hong Kong and the rapidly developing Guangdong province in the PRC. As important as these commercial considerations it would give a boost to Hong Kong morale by indicating the EC commitment to its future.
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PE 156.153/rév.