CONFIDENTIAL
BRIEF NO 2A
PRIME MINISTER'S TALKS WITH PREMIER ZHAO ZIYANG: 19 DECEMBER
POINTS TO MAKE
A.
1.
HONG KONG
Delighted to meet you again. Remember discussions during 1982 visit. At meeting with Chairman Deng Xiaoping then, agreed that our Governments would begin talks on Hong Kong. Very pleased now back in Peking, at end of negotiations, to sign Joint Declaration. Our two signatures on agreement symbolise high importance which both Governments attach to agreement and successful implementation.
2.
Believe Hong Kong agreement fully meets interests of both countries. Provides foundation for people of Hong Kong to build still more flourishing community. Can also form basis for closer and more substantial co-operation between Britain and China Hong Kong itself and in fields of trade and technology. Look forward to reviewing co-operation later in discussion.
3.
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British Government committed to implementing Joint Declaration in every respect. Appreciate very clear and categorical statements which Chairman Deng Xiaoping and yourself have made to same effect. Have contributed to excellent reception which agreement has had both in international community and Hong Kong.
4.
People of Hong Kong have expressed their view. Great majority view agreement positively. Only natural should be some doubts and fears in people's minds: they face momentous and unprecedented change. But Hong Kong people greatly reassured by your statement to Hong Kong Government delegation of China's total commitment fulfilling agreement.
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5. Committed to co-operating very closely with you to put agreement into effect. Joint Liaison Group of great importance as forum for liaison and consultation. Look forward to discussing with you matters for consideration set out in Annex II to Joint Declaration, in order to maintain Hong Kong's position in world trading system; to ensure continued application of international
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