TNAG-1743-FCO40-2462-Visits-by-FCO-officials-to-Hong-Kong--including-visit-by-Lor-1988 — Page 125

PTAADF

CONFIDENTIAL

SECRETARY OF STATE'S VISIT TO SWITZERLAND:

HONG KONG

RF

file

2HUCB 027/1

MARCH 1988

16 MAR 1988

66

VES

Objections

1.

ד־

To indicate that Sino-British cooperation on Hong Kong is

proceeding well, and to emphasise that international expressions of

Support

sympathy are helpful for confidence.

2. To ask the Swiss to make a new commitment for resettlement of

Vietnamese refugees from Hong Kong.

Points to Make

1.

Liaison with Chinese over Hong Kong going well at all levels.

Recently met Wu Xueqian in London. Good understanding with him constructive dialogue on constitutional development in Hong Kong,

and other issues.

2.

Hong Kong economy performing very well. Growth last year 13.5%. Confidence remarkably good, but still fragile. International expressions of support always helpful. Strength of Hong Kong economy important in underpinning current optimistic mood in territory. Switzerland is important European economic partner.

3.

Welcome signature of separate Hong Kong/Switzerland Air

Services Agreement.

Arrivals up

4. Hong Kong's refugee problem is getting worse. resettlement down. Our own resettlement effort considerable: 13,000

since 1975. Resettlement of a further 468 announced last year.

Gesture of solidarity by Swiss by offering to take some more in 1988

would be most welcome.

CONFIDENTIAL