TNAG-2924-FCO40-4199-Visits-by-Ministers-and-officials-from-third-countries-to-Ho-1993 — Page 110

26 FEB 13 15:43 CANADIAN HIGH COMMISSIO*

Canada

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February 25, 1993

CANADA'S SECRETARY OF STATE FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

UNABLE TO VISIT HONG KONG

The Canadian Secretary of State for External Affairs, the Honourable Barbara McDougall, announced today with deep regret that she will be unable to visit Hong Kong as planned February 25-27,

1993.

The Minister will return to Ottawa immediately from Tokyo today to meet with other senior members of the Government following

Prime Minister Mulroney's announced intention to resign.

Ms. McDougall said that she has passed her personal regrets to Governor Chris Patten and has explained the cancellation of her visit.

Ms. McDougall said "I was very much looking forward to exchanging views with the Governor and members of the Legislative Council at this important moment in Hong Kong's constitutional development. Canada has special and important links with Hong Kong

and we are deeply committed to its future. ##

"It is not Canada's place to comment on the details of possible constitutional arrangements but we believe Governor Patten's proposals would move Hong Kong towards the goals of a responsible legislature and guarantees of the rule of law that are critical ingredients of long-term stability."

THE COMMISSION FOR CANADA, 11-14/F.. TOWER 1, EXCHANGE SQUARE, 8 CONNAUGHT PLACE, HONG KONG G.P.U. BOX 11142 TEL 6-8104321 FAX: 5-8477452

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