T he Vietnamese Embassy in Phnom Penh provided this statement in response to an
invitation by the Post to comment on the U.S.'s removal of their trade
ban.
On Feb 3 President Bill Clinton declared the lifting of the embargo
on Vietnam and proposed the mutual establishment of liaison offices in the two
countries. This is a positive and significant decision, which contributes to
opening a new page in U.S.-Vietnam relations in the interest of the two peoples.
This decision meets the desire of the American and the Vietnamese peoples as
well as of many other countries; it is in line with the trend towards peace,
development in Asia-Pacific and in the world. The improvement in U.S.-Vietnam
relations will make a significant contribution to the common endeavor of the
countries of the world for the sake of peace, friendship and co-operation among
nations.
The government and people of Vietnam welcome this decision of
the American government.
On this occasion, the Vietnamese government
reaffirms its policy whereby it consistently attaches importance to relations
with the U.S. and wishes for normal relations between the two countries on the
basis of respect for each other's independence and sovereignty, non-interference
in each other's internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit. Proceeding from
such position, Vietnam will continue to co-operate fully with the American
government and people in solving pending issues between the two countries.
Vietnam accepts the establishment of liaison offices in the respective capitals,
to be seen as a transitional step towards full diplomatic relations. The
Vietnamese government re-iterates its policy of consistently regarding the
question of Americans missing from the war as a humanitarian concern not linked
with political issues. In consonance with their humane tradition and policy, the
government and people of Vietnam have been, are and will be co-operating in a
constructive spirit with the American government and people to solve this issue
to the fullest possible extent.
On this occasion also, the Vietnamese
government and people express their sincere gratitude to all those who in the
United States and in other countries of the world have made their contribution
to the lifting of the embargo on Vietnam and to the improvement of relations
between the United States and Vietnam.
The government and people of
Vietnam once again affirm their policy of befriending all countries in the world
community, for the sake of peace, stability and development in Southeast Asia
and over the world.
Contact PhnomPenh Post for full article
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