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9.
Soviet diplomats to whom I have spoken believe that the article is directed particularly at the CPSU, and take encouragement from the section dealing with the possibility that a party can develop relations with other parties in spite of differences. While there is some basis for this, I am inclined to think that it is first directed at Eastern European parties, as a further expression of Chinese willingness to develop relations with them.
10. It is noteworthy that the article states clearly Chinese opposition to the export of revolution, and further refines what is meant by "support" for other parties. This can include humanitarian aid as well as moral and political support.
11. Finally, the article marks the extent to which the development of these contacts has become a significant arm of Chinese diplomacy. Much progress has been made since 1978 for China now to have established contacts with more than 200 communist and non-communist parties. Zhu Liang, Head of the ILD, told the Ambassador during Hu Yaobang's visit to Britain that the CPC now has relations with 217 parties. The majority of them are in Asia and Africa.
Your sever,
Tony
A J G Insall
First Secretary Chancery
CC:
Political Distribution
Chanceries: Prague, Moscow, Budapest, Bucharest,
Warsaw, Sofia, Belgrade
PF Ricketts Esq, Washington
CONFIDENTIAL
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