TNAG-2608-FCO40-3799-International-support-from-the-USA-regarding-the-future-of-H-1992 — Page 66

Hong Kong.

degree to which the Joint Declaration is being implemented in

Much of the Joint Declaration is vague or open to

several interpretations.

Therefore, even ascertaining what the

standard of measurement is to be will be a conflict-laden and

very subjective undertaking. Congress could be laying the

foundation for endless debate with the Executive Branch, not to

mention the chinese and British, over these issues. If there are

to be reporting provisions (and I am not sure that is

desireable), such a report should evaluate developments in Hong

Kong along several specified dimensions of interest and concern

to Americans. After all, we are sost interested in the welfare

of Hong Kong, not andloga disputation about the meaning of the

Joint Declaration.

Second, having an annual report raises the issue of

"enforcement"--what is to be done if the behavior of either

Beijing (or Britain) is found to be wanting?

Practically

speaking, the only feasible levers (and these are of very

questionable efficacy) are in the economic realm. Yet,

application of economic sanctions almost assuredly will hurt Hong

Kong most, and disadvantage American business in the world's most

dynamic economic region. So, I fear that a "reporting

requirement" simply underscores Asarica's inability to do much;

what faw tools are available would hurt the very people about

whom we are concerned.

Third, the proposed legislation requires annual Executive

Branch review and reporting to Congress. Congress already has

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