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own visa requirement for GDR nationals;
(iii) Hong Kong propose to relax their visa regime for nationals of certain East European countries by shortening the visa processing time from approximately six weeks to ten working days and by expanding the categories of visits which will be permitted to include tourist and recreational visits, including visits by diplomats stationed in third countries. In the case of Soviet Union, Bulgaria, Albania and a number of other
communist countries, however, Hong Kong propose to maintain their existing policy and procedures (ie. restricting entry to businessmen, conference and trade fair delegates and certain other minor categories).
The Hong Kong Government intend to put these proposals to
ExCo on 19 June.
RECOMMENDATION
2. I submit a draft telegram to Hong Kong giving detailed
comments on Hong Kong's proposals. MVD, PUSD, EED, and other relevant geographical departments have been consulted
and agree.
BACKGROUND
But
3. We have been encouraging the Hong Kong Government for some time to reconsider their cautious approach to the establishment of a Hungarian Trade Office in Hong Kong. Hong Kong have hitherto been reluctant to contemplate any permanent Soviet or East European presence because of Chinese sensitivities about the possibility of Hong Kong becoming a base for opposition to the Chinese Government. While still anxious to avoid a formal consular presence, at least for the time being, the Hong Kong Government have now
MAXAFY/2
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