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CHINA: REACTIONS OF EUROPEAN PARTNERS
France
President Mitterrand's statement on 4 June said there was no future in a regime which, in order to survive, resorted to firing on its
On 5 June, the Foreign young people when they called for democracy. Minister expressed consternation and condemned the use of violence. On 6 June, the Prime Minister called the bloodshed inhumane and
ineffective.
Action:
―
Political and military contacts at all levels
official commercial contacts.
"
'frozen", but not
All official visits to and from China suspended. No specific mention of arms sales.
Portugal
MFA statement expressing consternation and rejecting the
Prime Minister was "profoundly shocked".
violence.
use of
Action:
Portuguese may wish to coordinate with us Kong and Macau.
in the context of
Hong
Luxembourg
Foreign Minister expressed Government's consternation to Chinese Chargé on 5 June and condemned the use of arms against civilians.
The Netherlands
Chinese Ambassador summoned. Expressions of shock and surprise from all political parties. Proposal for joint EC response which might include postponement of planned visits and no new commitments with Chinese authorities. The Dutch do not favour withdrawal of
Ambassadors.
Belgium
Government dismayed.
Action:
Visit by Chinese Minister of Foreign Trade not suspended but his official programme cancelled. Private-sector reception for Minister to have been attended by Prince Albert also cancelled.
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