TNAG-1749-FCO40-2468-Visit-by-Sir-Geoffrey-Howe--Secretary-of-State-for-Foreign-a-1988 — Page 102

FCO40 Hong Kong Department Records 聯邦事務部香港部檔案 All

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PORRIGE BRC HONG KONG PRB58 CONFEREICH 31 MAY 1988

FORKIGE SECRETARY (CONTD):

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Of course, the whole position in south-east Asia would be

immensely improved if Vietnam quit Cambodia.

The Soviet invasion

of Afghanistan and its support for the Vietnamese occupation of Cambodia have helped create two of the world's largest refugee problems.

Soviet troops are now pulling out of Afghanistan, so let

us hope Mr. Gorbachev's new thinking will soon turn its attention in

an aqually constructive way to south-east Asia.

Xy other strong impression from the visit is of the vigour of

the debate about Hong Kong's future. The important thing now 16

to channel this energy into giving a clear and comprehensive

response to the first draft of the Basic Law. The consultation

period is an opportunity to be seized.

Yesterday, I dealt in some detail with the approach of Her

Kajesty's Government to Hong Kong's future. Let me simply repeat:

it is not a question of choosing between upholding Britain's

responsibility for Hong Kong and having good relations with China.

Britain is bat in the business of cutting and running. Ve have a

That is an right and an obligation to govern Hong Kong until 1997.

obligation which will not be shirked.

Finally, may I take the opportunity on behalf of my wife, my

delegation and myself, to thank the Governor, Members of the Hong

Kong Government and the people of Hong Kong for their warm and

generous hospitality.

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