yipes
RESTRICTED
talks on weapons proliferation and arms sales and to adhere to international agreements. The Russian Parliament took a direct interest in arms sales and had approved the present policy.
21. Sir John Coles said that we were most grateful for
this frank review of the situation. We in the West remained
deeply concerned about the need for continued reductions in
forces and had urged the Chinese to maintain their
participation in the P5 arms transfers talks.
22. Sir John Coles asked whether the Russians raised human
rights with the Chinese. Mr Solovyev said the Russians
shared our concerns on the issue. They had raised human
rights with the Chinese last year for the first time at
Vice-Director level at the MFA. The Chinese position was
fundamentally different and reflected China's Confucian
past. The Russians were keen to see further discussions
across the board eg at Supreme Court, Ministry of Justice
level etc. Sir John Coles reiterated HMG's concern over
Chinese behaviour. The meeting concluded that recent
gestures by the Chinese had been cosmetic. No fundamental
change had taken place.
23. Sir John Coles thanked the Russian delegation for
their participation and suggested that the discussions be
continued over lunch. The meeting concluded at 12.45pm.
RESTRICTED
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.