TNAG-2229-FCO40-3201-Political-relations-between-Hong-Kong-and-France-1991 — Page 7

Background

RESTRICTED

1.

French exports to Hong Kong in 1990 totalled nearly HK$9bn (UK: $14bn). French companies eg Bouygues are competing for business on the airport project.

2.

The French contribution on passports etc has been discreet but useful: provision of passports and

residence-permits to local employees of French firms in Hong

Kong.

3. Dumas is unlikely to take a strong line on human rights with the Chinese. The Chinese will no doubt complain

about the activities of French-based dissidents and about

Mme Mitterand's planned meeting in India with the Dalai

Lama.

MARAIK/3

RESTRICTED

}