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8. In the Far East, visits to the UK are possible later in 1985
by both the Japanese and Chinese Defence Ministers. The former
has regretted that he is unable to accept the Secretary of
State's invitation to visit in May: but he is contemplating a
European tour later in the year, perhaps in the period July-
October. It may now be best to wait for the Japanese to propose
dates (though forewarning them that the August/September period
would not be convenient). The Chinese Defence Minister, Zhang
Aiping, has recently told our Ambassador that he would like to
take up the invitation issued by the Secretary of State in early
1983 (and to receive S of S in China). Though Zhang is old and
probably nearing the end of his time in office, a visit by him
would be valuable; we have enquired what timing he has in mind.
We would also hope to see a visit to the UK this year by the
South Korean Defence Minister in view of his country's increasing
importance as a market for defence equipment.
9. The importance of our long-standing defence relations with
Australia and New Zealand needs no rehearsal. Though recent
difficulties over nuclear issues are a cause for some concern, a
vsiit by Minister (DP) to Australia in February (perhaps to include a joint government/industry mission to Japan) and by Minister (AF)
to both countries (and Hong Kong) in the Autumn, should amply
represent our interests in these areas in the coming year.
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