}
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particularly to Europe in view of the suffering caused by the Second
The Soviet World War, but it was necessary to face up to realities. Union had wild ambitions, Its present tactic was to outflank and encircle Europe as part of its wider ambitions of dominating the world. It was also understandable that there should be a desire to maintain a strategic balance. But it was necessary also to look back at the previous 10 years when the Soviet Union had expanded its conventional forces. Now it had conventional superiority over the West and strategic parity. Thus the tendency towards arms expansion would continue irrespective of whether there was a SALT Agreement or not.
4.
To tackle the present situation China considered that three principles should be followed. First, strengthen defensive capability. The move by some European countries to increase defence expenditure by 3% per annum was wise and necessary. Secondly, support all forces which opposed Soviet expansionism, to wage a tit- for-tat struggle against their aggressive policies and to disrupt their plans. Thirdly, oppose policies of appeasement towards the Soviet Union. Those who stood for appeasement thought they would reduce Soviet pressure by supplying credit and advanced equipment to the USSR. But such a policy merely made up the weak points of the Soviet Union with the West's stronger points ie capital and technology. Mr Huang said that the approach outlined above would assist in the struggle for a longer period of peace and for the postponement of war.
5.
China supported Mr Callaghan's policy of strengthening Britain's defence capability, of increasing military expenditure by 3% and of building up forces; also his policy of promoting European unity. These measures were wise: China hoped to see a united and strong Europe: and Europe (including Britain) hoped to see a prosperous and modern China. This was in line with the hopes of the British people and in the interests of the peoples of the world.
6.
On the problems of Africa, Mr Huang said that the foremost task was to drive the Soviet and Cuban forces out of Africa thus removing foreign interference and leaving the Africans to solve their own problems. Soviet use of Cuban mercenaries was a fundamental
China's policy was cause of instability and turmoil in Africa. not to white-wash Soviet actions in Africa, but describe them candidly.
For a certain time the West's reactions to Soviet activity in Africa had been soft and feeble, and there had even been
Some people had connivance to the presence of Cuban forces.
Even described the Cuban forces as "factors for stability". Secretary of State Vance had expressed disagreement with that sentiment. (Dr Owen interjected that even Andy Young did not really
The correct believe that now: Mr Huang roared with laughter.) handling of Rhodesia and Namibia was to exercise effective pressure on the whites so as to meet the aspirations of the people of Rhodesia
The front and Namibia for self determination and majority rule.
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