TNAG-1237-FCO40-1550-Future-of-Hong-Kong-1983 — Page 77

BACKGROUND

BRIEFING NOTE ON THE FUTURE OF HONG KONG

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1. The Prime Minister visited China and Hong Kong

in September 1982.

2. During her visit to China, the first ever by a

British Prime Minister in office, one of the subjects

discussed was Hong Kong. The following statement

was issued after a meeting between Mrs Thatcher and

Chairman Deng Xiaoping on 24 September:

'Today the leaders of both countries held

far-reaching talks in a friendly atmosphere

on the future of Hong Kong.

Both leaders

made clear their respective positions on

this subject.

They agreed to enter talks through diplomatic

channels following the visit with the common

aim of maintaining the stability and

prosperity of Hong Kong.'

3.

Meetings in Peking to follow up the Prime Minister's

visit have begun through diplomatic channels and are

continuing.

Their content must remain confidential.

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