CONFIDENTIAL
into English language teaching ahead of the Americans.
Moreover a China whose rising generation is influenced
to a greater extent than in the past by Western
traditions and practices should be in less danger of
misunderstanding us; in time she may become more
susceptible to the whole range of Western ideas and
more willing to accept the complex and constantly developing
forms of international cooperation. The Science and
Technology Agreement and our expanding educational
contacts point the way; initially perhaps more to
China's benefit than our own; but we ourselves may, and
should seek to benefit more as time goes on.
9. I agree with the analysis in paragraphs 15 and 16 of
your despatch. I also endorse, on balance, your
conclusion that the general message coming out of China
is hopeful and provides us with encouraging opportunities.
But we need to guard against the possibility that the pot
might in fact boil over at some point and that
modernisation might again be abandoned in favour of
more inward looking policies and a reduced involvement
with the outside world.
It makes sense in terms of
our world wide interests to do what we can to prevent this
happening and I shall continue to look to you to monitor
developments carefully. We must keep our eyes open
and remain broadly in step with like-minded countries.
There are risks to be taken; but I agree that we should
respond positively and work for a relationship with China
which was not a practical pos: ibility for revious
generations.
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