03-SEP-1991 07:09
JAMES LEE
MEMORANDUM ÖF
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3 SEP 91
PREMIER LI PENG/PRIME MINISTER MAJOR
UNDERSTANDING PEKING
5
P.06
The construction of this new airport is vital for Hong Kong's
future stability and prosperity but it is more than that; it is
also a key factor in the preservation and enhancement of Hong
Kong's role as a centre of regional and international civil
aviation but I see this Understanding on the airport as having a
still wider significance in that it marks a new phase in the
relationship between Hong Kong, Peking and London.
Seven years ago, in December 1984, the Joint Declaration was
signed here in Peking by my predecessor, Margaret Thatcher. Much
progress has been made towards ensuring the smooth implementation
of the provisions of this historic Agreement. At first, our good
relations and joint purpose ensured that progress was smooth and
relatively fast. More recently, this has not been the case and
we have encountered difficulties. It is, however, a tribute to
These contacts have
our common responsibilities as Permanent Members of the United
Nations Security Council and our shared commitment to the people
of Hong Kong that despite these difficulties we continue to talk
to each other and seek a solution to them.
now been productive; thanks to them, we have been able to reach
the good Agreement on Hong Kong's new airport which we have signed
today and now we look to the future. As we do so, it is clear
that the Joint Declaration remains the strong corner-stone of both
British and Chinese policy towards Hong Kong. In our talks
today, we have confirmed our determination to implement both its
letter and its spirit. Britain is wholly committed by treaty to
cooperate in the restoration of Hong Kong to Chinese sovereignty
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.