C.
CONFIDENTIAL
9.
We
Britain and China share a continuing responsibility to maintain the conditions within which the people of Hong Kong can realise this goal. We have laid the foundation in this solemn international agreement. We have created, in the Sino-British Joint Liaison Group, a forum for cooperation over its implementation. have demonstrated the strength of our political commitment to it today by the signatures that you, Mr Premier, and I have set upon it. I am heartened by the assurance which your Government has repeatedly given that the arrangements for Hong Kong contained in
the agreement are not measures of expediency. They are long term policies, which will be incorporated in the Basic Law for Hong Kong and preserved intact for 50 years from 1997.
10. For my part I pledge that the British Government will do all
in its power to make the agreement a success. We shall continue to discharge our obligation to administer Hong Kong up to 30 June 1997. It will be administered prudently, with foresight and in the best interests of the people. We look forward to working closely with the Chinese Government, through the Joint Liaison Group, so that the
agreement can be put fully into effect and so that there can be a
smooth transition in 1997.
11. The negotiation itself has brought our countries closer
together. It has increased our mutual understanding and trust. I am
convinced that as we work together in the future we shall be laying
the foundation for a closer and deeper relationship in the years to
come. That is good for Britain; good for China; and good for the world. It is above all good for the people of Hong Kong.
3 December 1984
CONFIDENTIAL
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.