CONFIDENTIAL
MR GILLMORE'S BILATERAL TALKS IN JAPAN, 10-14 DECEMBER
HONG KONG
Checklist of Points to Make
-
Appreciate Dr Nakayama's visit to Hong Kong last month as a demonstration of Japanese confidence in the territory.
As Prime Minister made clear during her visit to Tokyo in September, welcome continuing high level of Japanese business involvement in Hong Kong. Maintenance and expansion of Hong Kong's international investment and trading links vital to Hong Kong's continued success as international commercial and financial centre.
Plans for new international airport and port development announced by Governor in October should provide major opportunities for overseas investors.
Would be helpful if Japan could take appropriate opportunities to mention to Chinese importance of their economic interests in Hong Kong and their support for full implementation of Joint Declaration.
Appreciate Japan's support for Hong Kong's participation in Asia/Pacific Economic Forum. Need to ensure that Hong Kong's autonomy in external economic matters is firmly established as accepted international practice well before 1997. Hope Japan will continue to support Hong Kong's participation at future meetings.
In context of building up Hong Kong's economic autonomy, we are keen to negotiate and sign a separate Air Services Agreement with Japan as soon as possible. Understand that Japanese Ministry for Transport is still studying this question. Hope it will be possible to make rapid progress.
ASHABG
CONFIDENTIAL
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.