TNAG-1551-FCO40-2115-Possible-cultural-agreement-between-Hong-Kong-and-Japan-1986 — Page 37

3. Matsuma explained that the Japanese wanted to expand

their relationship with Hong Kong beyond merely economic

subjects.

Matsuura himself had been active in promoting

this concept, and the objective would certainly be mentioned

by the Japanese Foreign Minister when the Governor visits

Tokyo.

4. On substance, Matsuura said that at present the Japanese

were giving money for Japanese Studies to both Hong Kong

University and the Chinese University through the (Government

funded) Japan Foundation. Funds by this route were, however,

and werið remain so

limited/

As an alternative, it was open to the Japanese to

give grant aid for cultural purposes under cover of a bilateral

agreement. Such agreements existed currently with China- and

NETHEM ASEAN (iùr is also a couple fun! a number of developing countries. The Consul-General had been"

pressing his Government to extend this to Hong Kong, though he

MFA had not always seen eye-to-eye with the Gaimishe lawyers.

This would considerably increase the funding possibilities.

Comment

5. This is the first time the Japanese have come clean on their intentions although there has been some continued probing of Legal Department. We are now organising a meeting with the

Consul-General, including our educational expats, to talk the

matter through on the basis of your telo 332, para 3. Our own view is that the funding (Matsuura mentioned up to 50

million Yen) is worth having. It would be welcomed by the

Against this, we do not want another row with

universities.

/the