TNAG-0641-FCO40-789-Discussions-between-Hong-Kong-and-Macao-for-proposed-constru-1977 — Page 8

CONFIDENTIAL

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Cannik

thes gote

withink gunung

his

the Portuguese press, during t recent visit to the US, Dr Soares told Dr Waldheim that preparatory arrangements to establish diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China (PRC) were well under way. Dr Ferreira met the PRC Permanent Representatives to the UN in this connection). In the circum- stances, it would seem neither appropriate nor advantageous for the British Government to offer to obtain Chinese views on behalf of the Portuguese.

4. I suggest that, unless you wish to reply personally to the Ambassador, Sr Barata, the Counsellor at the Portuguese Embassy, should be advised informally (by Mr Stewart of Hong Kong and General Department or myself), with reference to your conversation with his Ambassador, that we look to the Portuguese authorities to establish where the Chinese stand with regard to the proposal, HK&GD concur,

1

17 May 1977

Mr Sutherland (with enc)

Mr Cortazzi

Mr Murray

Mr Stewart

HKGD FED

}

(with enc)

I S Winchester

Southern European Department

CONFIDENTIAL