TNAG-2914-FCO40-4189-International-support-from-the-USA-regarding-the-future-of-H-1993 — Page 31

071474

MDHIAN 6195

CONFIDENTIAL

FM HONG KONG

TELNO 1503

TO DESKBY 22120OZ FCO

OF 221112Z SEPTEMBER 93

CONFIDENT

MKD 021/3

RECEIVES IN BEZ LOV

23 SEP 1993

OFFICER

INDEA

pa

JISTAY

T

Intsup (US)

AND TO IMMEDIATE WASHINGTON, PEKING, UKREP JLG HONG KONG AND TO IMMEDIATE ATTC TAIPEI

MIPT : APEC LEADERS ECONOMIC CONFERENCE

FOLLOWING IS TEXT OF PRESIDENT CLINTON'S LETTER TO GOVERNOR

QUOTE

Dear Governor Patten:

I would be honored if Hong Kong could be represented at an informal APEC Leadership Conference that I plan to host in Seattle

on November 19-20.

Over the past two decades, the Asia-Pacific Region has undergone historic economic transformation. APEC members now account for nearly half of the world's output and most of the fastest-growing economies. In light of this, I believe that APEC members could benefit greatly from meeting at a high level to discuss the economic challenges and opportunities that face us as we enter the twenty-first century.

Each of us has a unique history of development and vision of the future. My goal is for us to share informally our perspectives on the region's economic future in a quiet, secluded setting. Together, we can examine ways to promote sustained growth and address economic issues of global concern. I also have asked Secretary Bentsen to begin a dialogue with APEC finance ministers on economic issues in the region. I think they can contribute to the development of a common perspective on the economic policy requirements facing all the pacific community countries. I hope I can count on your support.

In the coming weeks, we will be communicating with you some of the thoughts on possible issues for discussion as well as details on the meeting program. I have asked my Special Assistant Robert Fauver to visit the region in October to explore further the

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