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CONFIDENTIAL
ENVIRONMENT CO-OPERATION AGREEMENT: Hong Kong has counter-proposed an environmental cooperation agreement. There is some reticence by Environment Canada to sign a bilateral framework agreement that has little substance, especially at a time when they are under scrutiny for their Green Plan. As well, they have no personnel or financial resources to commit to any new bilateral programs. ISTC may become interested in this matter in view of the commercial possibilities in Hong Kong for Canadian companies interested in the environment.
DOUBLE TAXATION: As Hong Kong does not tax foreign income nor disclose tax information, there is little basis for an agreement at this time. This idea continues to be pursued by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong.
EXCHANGES:
A catalogue of positions for a possible exchange is being developed. To date 4 job descriptions have been provided to the Hong Kong government (salary and benefits to be paid by the Hong Kong government):
(a) Foreign and International Trade Policy position in EAITC
Telecommunications/Broadcasting policy position in Communications/CRTC
흐흐
Policy position with the Immigration and Refugee Board Surface Transport policy position with the Ontario Government
The Public Service Commission (Mr. Brian Watson) is searching for candidates for 10 secondment positions in Hong Kong (salary and benefits to be paid by the sending Department).
There will be an increasing focus on short-term exchange visits (two weeks or less).
RIGHT OF ABODE:
Canada does not inted to implemented a right of abode package because of domestic considerations relating to our universal immigration policy; There is already considerable flexibility with existing Canadian citizenship and immigration regulations.
Hong Kong citizens did not respond positively to the U.K. right of abode package.
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