نه
5
RESTRICTED
5. The reaffirmation of positions which are as such
not unknown and have been valid for a long time fits in with the overall framework of the present Chinese policy which gives priority to the industrial, technical and scientific modernization of China. At the same time, it reduces mistrust of Peking's long-term intentions which persisted especially in view of the cultural-revolutionary development.
6. There is no unequivocal explanation why the Chinese
have chosen the present time to comment on the Hongkong and Macao question. It could be that this forms part of the general redefinition of Chinese positions after the fall of the Gang of Four; moreover, it cannot be ruled out that the generally improved appreciation of economic problems has led to greater understanding for the discreet enquiries by Hongkong businessmen who have been interested for some time in a Chinese clarification in view of the gradually approaching deadlines for long-term investment decisions. At any rate, the most recent Chinese statoments are likely to strengthen the already existing widespread optimism among businessmen concerning Hongkong's future.
7. Hongkong's economic usefulness for China is obvious. It is interesting, however, that the Chinese have recently been emphasizing Hongkong's political signi- ficance as well and are also cautiously ventilating the idea of popular-front alliances. As far as Hongtong and its south-east Asian hinterland is con- cerned, this may mean that Peking is today prepared to harness all the forces which offer themselves in Hongkong (including high finance) in order to strengthen its influence on expatriate Chinese as vell as on its neighbouring states.
A
***
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.