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Soviet military and political penetration of the area, they
could begin to share the benefits of the extraordinary growth
that now characterizes most of Southeast Asià. We, and I believe
all of the countries in the area', would welcome the construc-
tive role that Vietnam can play. No one who wishes the peoples
of Southeast Asia well can have an interest in encouraging
its division into hostile camps." The basic choice is up to
Hanoi, whose current policies have caused massive human suffering for the peoples of Indochina and serious problems for its non-
communist neighbors.
The continued emphasis of the ASEAN countries on economic
and social development is the best long run defense against
destabilizing influences at home or threats from outside.
In the meantime, they have each undertaken in varying degrees
to strengthen their individual military capabilities as well
as continuing their economic progress. They are also looking
to their friends for support.
It is therefore highly significant that Secretary Vance
will be travelling to the region to meet with the ASEAN
foreign ministers next month. His presence there will be
symbolic of America's determination that, as President Carter
said at Georgia Tech, we will "stand by our friends, we will
honor our commitments, and we will protect the vital interests
of the United States." No one should doubt that the continued
stability and prosperity of the ASEAN nations is of great
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importance to us.
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