UNGA SEPTEMBER 1993
SPEAKING NOTE;
HONG KONG/SPAIN:
SECRETARY OF STATE/SPANISH FOREIGN MINISTER
SPANISH VISA REGIME FOR BDTCS AND BN(0) S
Wish to raise a technical visa issue which is causing
real political concern in Hong Kong.
Our officials have had exchanges about Spain's decision to
discontinue arrangements for visa free visits to Spain for
British nationals from Hong Kong British Dependent Territory Citizens and British Nationals (Overseas).
have worked well since 1988.
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These
Continuity in visa free travel arrangements is seen in Hong
Kong as a significant confidence building measure.
Your decision to reimpose a visa regime from 1 October has been received with dismay in Hong Kong. People there are worried about the political signal it sends. Does not help us at a sensitive time in Hong Kong.
These Hong Kong travellers do not pose an immigration
problem. They have been through rigorous procedures to
acquire British passports. They have a record of good behaviour and of paying their way indeed many of Hong Kong's trading partners have found strong commercial advantage in visa free arrangements with Hong Kong.
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Our understanding that measures taken are not essential
under Schengen regulations.
Can you ask your officials to put off the 1 October deadline so that our experts can see whether there is any other
solution?
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.