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5. In the following discussion, it was agreed that UNTAC was
likely to face its most difficult task in the 3 months
between the elections and the formation of the new Cambodian
government. The Core Group would have an important role in advising UNTAC during this period. But the Cambodians themselves should assume responsibility for their country after that. Although there would be a continuing UN presence through the specialised agencies (and possibly a small body advising the new government on security), UNTAC's mandate should end as planned 3 months after the elections. The ASEAN countries should be encouraged to take a more active role in Cambodia after UNTAC's mandate expired.
VIETNAM
6.
Mr Afanasiev said that there had been radical economic
reforms in Vietnam, but fewer political changes. Vietnam was a potential economic tiger. Economic reforms combined with an open-door policy for investment had led to rapid growth. Given time Vietnam would play a more important role in the Asia/Pacific region. It would also continue its integration
with ASEAN.
7.
Meanwhile the Communist Party maintained its leading role and opposed pluralism. But the new constitution, agreed in 1992, had limited some of the Communist Party's functions and had increased the importance of government. The National Assembly had also been given a greater role and was no longer merely a rubber stamping body. Personnel Policy was still dominated by the Central Committee of the Communist Party. But there were signs that key positions were now being filled by candidates whose personal qualities were as important as their ideology. Serious violations of human rights continued. But the leadership had taken steps to improve the situation in response to pressure from the international community. Re-education camps had been closed and there had
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