TNAG-1313-FCO40-1688-Future-of-Hong-Kong-views-and-involvement-of-Australia--Cana-1984 — Page 143

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STATEMENT MADE BY THE AUSTRALIAN PRIME MINISTER ON 26 SEPTEMBER

ABOUT THE DRAFT SINO-BRITISH AGREEMENT ON HONG KONG'S FUTURE

"The Government welcomes the Agreement that has been reached by the

British and Chinese Governments about the future of Hong Kong.

achieved this settlement.

I congratulate both Governments on having achieved this

It is noteworthy that more than two years of intensive negotiations have resulted in a detailed Agreement being reached with the

declared object of maintaining confidence in Hong Kong and ensuring

its continued stability and prosperity.

that

It has been my firmly and consistently held view,

strengthened by my visit to Hong Kong and particularly by my

discussions with Premier Zhao in Peking in February this year,

the discussions between the United Kingdom and China would result in

an amicable and sensible Agreement which would allow Hong Kong to

continue to function in conditions acceptable to all the parties.

Australia has important interests in Hong Kong and in Hong Kong's

continuing to play a positive role in the development of our region.

The Agreement that has now been reached, and the arrangements made

for continuing co-operation between the parties involved in Hong Kong's future, will make an important contribution to the

political stability of the Western Pacific region as

a whole."

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