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.