CHINESE QUESTION.

Waikato Argus, Volume IV, Issue 303, 18 June 1898, Page 2

CHINESE QUESTION.

(BY ELECTRIC, TKLI-GBArn—OOFYRTGHT). Pekin, June 15. Extraordinary activity is shown by the Russians in negotiations with tho authorities at Pekin. A right has been obtained to construct a railway from thd south of Pekin to the watershed of the Yang-tze-kiang river, which will be continued through tho watershed by the Belgian Government, acting under the patronage of the French and Russian Governments. A French line, starting from Tonking, will be carried through the south of China, until it meets that constructed by Belgium. A complete barrier will thus be formed across the Yang-tze-kiang Valley, London, June 15. A deputation from tho Associated Chambers of Commerce urged Lord Salisbury to take adequate measures for protecting and developing British trade in China. Lord Salisbury said the rights of Britain, under the Tientsing treaty, would be maintained. State promot • ing of railwajs outside British territory by China was a grave change of policy. He preferred the lines should be constructed by private enterprise. The Times expresses the view that the Foreign office might put efficient pressure upon China as other powers have done, to secure concessions for railway constructions. Pekin, Juno 15. The Chinese Government is employing only Russian military officers as instructors to the troops in the province of Shansi. (Received June 17, 2.20 p.m.). Pekin, June 16. The Chinese Cabinet will provide facilities for the sons of nobles visiting foreign countries in order to promote international intercourse. The Emperor of the Chinese has conferred the order of the Double Dragon upon Li Hung Chang.