TNAG-2912-FCO40-4187-International-support-from-Asia-regarding-the-future-of-Hong-1993 — Page 10

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Peking that Japan, as a regional and economic partner of Hong Kong, wants to see a smooth and cooperative transfer of power from Britain to China based on full implementation of the Joint Declaration.

- We know that Japan shares our view that the rule of Law in Hong Kong and sound democratic structures will be essential in maintaining business confidence after 1997. It would be most useful if Mr Hata could focus Chinese attention on the importance which Hong Kong's partners attach to the "one country, two systems" approach and to Chinese actions which demonstrate that they are serious about preserving Hong Kong as a successful economic centre with its own strong institutions in a region of growing importance. The Japanese side might also wish to consider emphasising the importance of maintaining Hong Kong's economic development, and their hope that political differences will not interfere with progress on major projects such as the Airport and Container Terminal 9.

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