by October 1992.
17.
China continues to press for reaccession to GATT. A number of recent reforms have shown a willingness to meet the required standards of market access and transparency. There is still a long way to go. China is also seeking to block progress on Taiwan's accession until it can be assured that its own application will be accepted first.
HUMAN RIGHTS/TIBET
18. Human rights remains an issue of concern. The Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary raised human rights in all their recent meetings with Chinese leaders. Lord Howe will be
leading a human rights delegation to China towards the end of this year.
19. Successive British Governments have regarded Tibet as autonomous while recognising the special special position of the Chinese there. We do not believe that independence for Tibet is a realistic option. Tibet has never been internationally recognised as an independent state and no state regards Tibet as independent. We see the most promising path to a solution in dialogue between the Chinese Government and the Tibetan people, including the Dalai Lama.
20. The Prime Minister had a private meeting with the Dalai Lama in London in December 1991. The Archbishop of Canterbury was present. This contact was in the Dalai Lama's private and religious capacity.
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