- 10 -
Consistent with the principle of reciprocity as set forth in the Memorandum of Understanding, we have requested the Vietnamese authorities to schedule for interview other persons of special humanitarian concern to the U.S. government. Of highest priority are the American citizens. Since processing resumed in the fall
of 1987, 32 of them have departed Vietnam. 62 remain. We hope that the Vietnamese authorities will move quickly to allow the remaining U.S. citizens to depart as quickly as possible.
We are heartened that in recent months the Vietnamese authorities have cooperated in arranging for the expeditious departure of several compelling humanitarian cases including cases involving emergency medical treatment. We hope this
responsiveness will continue.
Mr. Chairman, we must not overlook the fact that a complex, multinational understanding such as the Orderly Departure Program does not succeed without dedicated individuals to make it work. All the countries involved in this program
not to mention the