CONFIDENTIAL
1541
MDHOAN 6812
Where dates are concerned, Monday 18 October would suit Lord particularly well: otherwise he is unlikely to be available before early December. I hope Ikeda could manage that date:
I suggest that we should aim to hold the meeting without any publicity, to avoid giving rise to speculation:
On substance, I suggest that we should avoid too rigid an agenda, and focus on practical issues of policy rather than detailed analysis. Broadly we might aim to look at China's Likely evolution in the medium term, the main issues facing Western allies in dealing with China and possible elements of collective strategy. Essentially we would be seeking an informal exchange of views and if possible a harmonisation of approach, rather than trying to agree on detailed policy.
3.
Please urge Ikeda to give an early response. (He may have been forewarned by the Japanese Embassy here of our thinking.) If at all possible I should like to pin him down, and approach my French and German colleagues, within the next week. I anticipate that the Japanese may be the most chary of possible press leaks and the risk of an adverse Chinese reaction: please reassure Ikeda, if necessary, that Chevening is a very private venue and that every effort would be made to keep the meeting confidential.
4. For Bonn and Paris.
response I hope
In the light of Ikeda's response to ask you very soon to take similar action with Wallau/Levitte.
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