TNAG-1251-FCO40-1584-Third-countries-and-the-future-of-Hong-Kong-1983 — Page 104

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given to Asia and against Europe.

What we are seeing, and

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may continue to see, is a very gradual re-distribution of

American resources in consequence of the economic growth and

strategic importance of Asia.

26.

Thirdly, we should give America what support we can

through our own influence in the area. Of primary importance to us

is the future of Hong Kong. George Shultz will, I know,

have our concerns much in mind in his talks in Peking.

The Americans will be supportive, but will, I think, see

limits to the extent to which American involvement is likely

to be productive. They are no less keen than we are that

the outcome should preserve the vigour of Hong Kong as one

of the engines of the South-East Asian economy, and hope that

whatever political arrangements may be reached will be consonant

with the progressive relaxation of tension between Taiwan

and China. They are also aware, from their dealings with

Peking, of the difficulty of accommodating Chinese self-esteem.

Elsewhere, where we have influence or a presence denied to

the Americans, as for example in Brunei, our contribution is

valued above its material cost and will, I hope, be maintained.

27.

Finally, I return to my demographic theme. Of all the

countries providing immigrants to the United States in the

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