TNAG-1022-FCO40-1272-Relations-between-Hong-Kong-and-the-United-Nations-1981 — Page 36

CONFL-NTIAL

Annex C

7. This initiative is a serious attempt by the member states of the Community to bring about a solution to the Afghanistan problem. The invasion of a neutral and non- aligned country by 85,000 Soviet troops has severely damaged East-West relations. This new approach offers a realistic way out for all countries concerned; one which would reduce international tension and end human

suffering.

Attitude of the Soviet Union

8. The Soviet Union have continued in their attempts to gain international recognition for the Babrak Karmal Government on the basis of the 14 May 1980 proposals of the Karmal regime, which give no guarantees about the withdrawal of Soviet troops, Mr Gromyko told the Secretary of State on 6 July that he thought the European proposal 'unrealistic'. Lord Carrington made it plain that the proposal, which had already received an encouraging degree of support in the international community, remains on the table, and that a positive response from the Soviet Union was highly desirable in the interests of world peace and stability.

UK attitude to the Karmal regime

9.

The

Following the Soviet invasion, the British Ambassador and those of other Western countries were withdrawn. Embassy remains under a Chargé.

We do not have normal

government to government dealings with the Babrak Karmal regime.

Arms supplies to the Resistance

10. Arms do seem to be getting through.

But it would not

be helpful to the resistance to be specific about their

sources.

(3)

CON DENTIAL

/Credentials