U.S. and Hong Kong (1985-1997)

ALBRIGHT BEFORE HOUSE INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE

Following is the State Department text of Albright's opening testimony, as prepared for delivery:

(Editor's Note: In the text, $1 billion equals $1,000 million.)

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
February 11, 1997

OPENING STATEMENT
SECRETARY OF STATE MADELEINE K. ALBRIGHT
BEFORE THE HOUSE INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE

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We have important interests in Hong Kong, our 13th largest trading partner. China will soon regain sovereignty over Hong Kong, but Hong Kong will not cut its ties to our nation and the world. We look to China to live up to the letter and spirit of its accord with the United Kingdom on the reversion of Hong Kong. In that agreement, China pledged to maintain Hong Kong's open economy, democratic government, distinct legal system and civil liberties. By honoring its pledge, China will not only help assure Hong Kong's future, it will also enhance the PRO's standing and contribute to its own growing prosperity. I look forward to discussing this issue during my upcoming visit to Beijing and other capitals.

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