VIETNAMESE ASPECTS, INCLUDING AID
Maintaining close contact with Vietnamese in preparation for SC4.
Evidence that Vietnamese authorities are active in the north in
preventing clandestine departures.
Agreed in February on return of 1,000 volunteers/month and
contributed to constructing transit centre ($150,000).
1989 bilateral agreement on returning of non-volunteers dormant.
Still have backlog of volunteers. Can be reactivated if/when time
comes to supplement volunteers to keep return rate at 1,000/month.
Announced £lm for NGOs in areas of Vietnam where VBP come from;
and Vietnam eligible under Joint funding scheme. All this
additional to reintegration assistance for returnees.
4. US ATTITUDES
US position remains illogical and unhelpful. Trying to shift
them, with UNHCR support, before SC4.
Have suggested idea of a holding centre on US territory as
interim solution. But this would be a magnet. And could stop
voluntary repatriation.
If first asylum breaks down in the region, US refusal to accept
involuntary repatriation of non-refugees a prime cause.
5. RELATIONS WITH ASEAN COUNTRIES
Will continue to work closely with ASEAN countries, following
joint position agreed at Manila on 17/18 May (Annex D).
Situation has eased in Hong Kong. But problem still severe for
others in the region (eg Indonesia).
PHLATJ
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.