TNAG-2227-FCO40-3199-Political-relations-between-Hong-Kong-and-Commonwealth-count-1991 — Page 145

CONFIDENTIAL

PRIME MINISTER'S BILATERAL WITH MR MULRONEY: 14 JULY

HONG KONG AND THE COMMONWEALTH

The Canadian High Commission here have told us that

Mr Mulroney may suggest encouraging links between Hong Kong and the Commonwealth, in the hope that these could survive

after 1997, thereby enhancing Hong Kong's autonomy.

The

We very much doubt whether this idea is workable. Chinese would never tolerate it, given their sovereignty

sensitivities. The Governor of Hong Kong accepts this

reality. The most which might be managed would be for

individuals in Hong Kong to retain informal and personal

contacts with Commonwealth institutions. But that would

hardly enhance Hong Kong's autonomy.

If Mr Mulroney raises this, we recommend that the

Prime Minister is politely non-committal.

Line to take

Grateful for Canadian interest in and support for

Hong Kong.

-

We share a common interest in maintenance of a successful

Hong Kong before and after 1997.

Suggest any ideas Canadians have be discussed between our respective officials.

TEDAEI/1

TG

CONFIDENTIAL