TNAG-1623-FCO40-2237-Relations-between-Hong-Kong-and-China-1987 — Page 40

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From:

Date:

RJT McLaren

2 September 1987

Cc:

Mr Gillmore, o.r. Mr Hym, HKD, o.r

CALL BY NEW CHINESE AMBASSADOR

1. The new Chinese Ambassador paid his first call on me this morning. He made a very favourable impression. He is highly intelligent and is clearly much more of a political operator than his predecessor. His exceptional English is a considerable advantage.

2.

Mr Ji spoke of the very good state of Sino-British relations: the occasional differences should be seen in that context. He intended to work to develop the relationship still further, and looked forward to close contacts wwith FCO officials. I encouraged him to maintain a dialogue with senior officials dealing with important international issues. As Permanent Members of the Security Council it was important that we should keep in close touch with each others thinking.

3. Mr Ji conveyed greetings from Ke Zaishuo. He agreed that Hong Kong was the most important and substantial element in Sino- British relations. I said I hoped that he would come and see me on Hong Kong matters if he saw a need. 1 would similarly get in touch with him. While it was right that most business should be conducted through the Embassy in Peking and the MFA, there might be times when it would be useful to have a word here. Ji agreed.

Comment

4.

Mr Ji could prove a helpful supplementary channel Kong issues and we must consider how best to make use of him.

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RJT McLaren