CONFIDENTIAL
OFFICIAL VISIT OF INDIAN MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS,
MR NARASIMHA RAO : 1-4 NOVEMBER 1983
BRIEF NO 8B: FUTURE OF HONG KONG
(DEFENSIVE) POINTS TO MAKE
1.
Sino-British talks continuing in Peking with common aim of maintaining Hong Kong's stability and prosperity. Atmosphere good. Last round 19/20 October. Described by both sides as useful and constructive. Next round 14/15 November.
2. Content of talks confidential.
3. We aim to seek settlement acceptable to Britain, China and people of Hong Kong. Their views taken fully into account. Made known to us and Governor through many official and unofficial channels. Governor and Unofficial Members of Hong Kong's Executive Council again in London for discussions 6-8 October. Mr Luce in Hong Kong 24-28 September.
4. Central issue is to devise package inspiring confidence. Given agreed common aim, confident this possible.
5. Meanwhile important nothing said or done to damage confidence. Grateful your understanding.
Sovereignty
6. Chinese and British positions well-known. We fully realise importance of sovereignty to China. We are not inflexible. Willing to consider any solution acceptable to Britain, China and Hong Kong.
Confidence in Hong Kong
7. Hong Kong economy generally healthy. Main reason for decline of Hong Kong dollar and stock market is cumulative effect of Chinese propaganda. This floats Hong Kong as Special Administrative Region
CONFIDENTIAL
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