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THE PRIME MINISTER'S VISIT TO CHINA
8. Against this background Her Majesty's Government decided that the Prime Minister's visit to China in September 1982 would provide an opportunity to open discussions with the Chinese Government on the future of Hong Kong. It was evident that the Chinese Government had reached the same conclusion, and substantive discussions took place during the visit. Following a meeting between the
Prime Minister and Chairman Deng Xiaoping on 24 September 1982 the following joint statement was issued:
"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."
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