CONFIDENTIAL
VISIT OF THE SECRETARY, OF STATE TO WASHINGTON, 21
SEPTEMBER
HONG KONG
Points to Make
MIGD 021/3
RECEIVE
2 2 SEP 1993
CONSTITUTIONAL TALKS
DLK OFFICE
INDEA
con Toron
22
FILE. 49
Hong Kong economy strong and business confidence high.
- We are determined to hold fair and open elections in 1995. Important to leave Hong Kong with the self-confident
institutions it will need to preserve freedoms and the rule of
law after 1997.
- We want to do this if possible in a way which will provide continuity of institutions and people. Hence the need for agreement with China if we can get it on acceptable terms.
- Our talks with China are now dealing with concrete issues. There is still a considerable gap between us but we are working for a successful outcome.
- Time is not unlimited. Arrangements will need to be in place in time for local elections next September and the Legislative Council elections in 1995.
For use with the Administration (Confidential)
- Last two rounds of talks were pretty sterile, as expected. I am sending a message to Qian with the aim of
unblocking the situation before we meet in New York on 1
October.
sos.wash.21.NAT.JEB
JEB
CONFIDENTIAL