TNAG-2181-FCO40-3118-Hong-Kong-nationality-international-support-1990 — Page 81

In the Joint Declaration China undertakes to give its

cooperation in maintaining Hong Kong's stability and prosperity in the transition period. We therefore look to

China to support us in our efforts to stem the flow of emigration.

International Support

6.

Since announcing the nationality package we have continued to take every opportunity to encourage our friends and allies, especially those with close economic ties with Hong Kong, to consider taking similar measures. The Chinese

have publicly criticised this as an attempt to

internationalise what they consider to be solely a bilateral

matter. Our view is that as Hong Kong is one of the world's

foremost international centres, its major trading and

banking partners already have a strong and legitimate interest in its continued stability and prosperity.

Copies of the British Nationality (Hong Kong) Bill and

the Joint Declaration are attached.

1.

TOYAFK/3

Hong Kong Department

4 June 1990