TNAG-2291-FCO40-3300-Relations-between-Hong-Kong-and-Taiwan-1991 — Page 40

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Reference.

dictated by Taiwan's importance as a trading partner; we were not taken in by any suggestion that the situation had radically changed. We wished the Chinese well for any

further relaxation, while pursuing our own genuine commercial interests in Taiwan.

4. Lin commented by the way on the name of the Free Chinese Centre. Mr Davies said that we had noticed that many of Taiwan's unofficial representative offices around the world had changed their names to "Taipei Economic and Cultural Office". We did not know whether the Taiwanese intended to change the name of the Free Chinese Centre; would the Chinese find "Taipei Economic and Cultural Office" less offensive than "Free Chinese Centre"? gave no substantive answer.

5.

Lin

Lin drew attention to the positive remarks made by Sir David Wilson on Hong Kong. He hoped that things would now move forward. Mr Davies drew attention to the various contacts that have recently taken place, and stated that our Ministers were anxious to find a way forward. This was in the joint interest of all concerned. Lin agreed, and drew attention to the need for "mutual understanding and accommodation". He hoped that the airport project could go ahead as early as possible.

lanni Bat Ский

L Bristow

Far Eastern Department WH236

270-2954

28 June 1991

cc: Mr Paul, HKD (para 5)

Mr Wye, RAD

Chancery Peking

Hong Kong

CONFIDENTIAL