8
As I noted earlier, Mr. Chairman, we had repeatedly
stressed to the Vietnamese that their policies and actions
toward their neighbors would affect the pace- and timing of our
ability to normalize relations. The major reason we had sought
to normalize relations was to enhance regional peace and
stability. Since recent events had the opposite effect and
endangered regional peace and stability, our caution in not
moving further last fall was justified. It is hard to envision
progress toward normalization under existing circumstances,
although we do not preclude continuing informal discussions
from time to time in which we exchange views on regional and
bilateral matters:
+
In addition to addressing the record of our negotiations
with the Vietnamese, Mr. Chairman, the Subcommittee has asked
that I provide you with an appraisal of certain other aspects.
of the Indochina situation. Before doing so, however, I would.
like to elaborate somewhat on my earlier comments regarding
Vietnamese refugee policies.
It appears clear, Mr. Chairman, that the Vietnamese Govern-
ment has embarked upon a deliberate effort. to rid itself of
those elements of society which it considers undesirable.
Refugee reports indicate that Vietnamese of Chinese extraction,
including those whose families have been in Vietnam for genera-
tions, have been under increasing pressure since the end
of last year either to depart the country or face the prospect
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