TNAG-2918-FCO40-4193-The-internationalisation-issue--Hong-Kong-Department-paper---1993 — Page 17

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CONFIDENTIAL

HKD 021/6

RF

O 1 MAR 1993

HONG KONG: THE INTERNATIONALISATION ISSUE

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1. This paper looks at what lies behind the term

"internationalisation" of the Hong Kong issue from the Chinese

and from our own perspective and considers options for bringing

more international pressure to bear in support of our policy on

Hong Kong.

2.

Conclusions

The most effective forms of pressure on the Chinese to

change their behaviour towards Hong Kong are those which bear on

China's economic interests and international standing.

The US are best placed to apply this sort of pressure especially on MFN and GATT reaccession. Working to bring US-

influence to bear on China, though tricky (MFN is a double edged

sword), is the most effective tool we have.

- Other partners either lack decisive leverage with China or willingness to use it forcefully. (Nevertheless we should fire

(shared) continue to brief our partners to raise quietly our concerns with the Chinese as the opportunity arises).

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References to Hong Kong in communiques from international meetings (G7, European Councils, CHOGM) are a means of showing international concern, but would infuriate the Chinese and be unlikely to influence their policy [significantly). An option to be (used) only if relations deteriorate seriously.

Considered,

for the batter

Initiating debate on Hong Kong in the UN pre 1997 is a

high risk option. It would raise the international profile of the issue and could lead some countries to question the Joint Declaration approach. It might conceivably goad the Chinese into an early takeover. But post-1997, UN monitoring (eg on human rights) could be useful.

internat.NAT

JEB

CONFIDENTIAL