Cablegate: Gpoi Demarche Delivered -- Gvn Still Considering Eventual

VZCZCXRO9137
RR RUEHHM
DE RUEHHI #2101 3550936
ZNR UUUUU ZZH
R 210936Z DEC 07 ZDK
FM AMEMBASSY HANOI
TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC 6912
INFO RUEHHM/AMCONSUL HO CHI MINH 4088

UNCLAS HANOI 002101

SIPDIS

SENSITIVE
SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: KPKO MARR MASS VM
SUBJECT: GPOI DEMARCHE DELIVERED -- GVN STILL CONSIDERING EVENTUAL
DEPLOYMENT

REF: STATE 166599

1. (SBU) On December 20, poloff discussed reftel points with MFA IO
Department UN Section Chief Nguyen Thi Van Anh and Specialist Nguyen
Vu Minh and also handed over a diplomatic note containing the
points. Van Anh and Minh were quick to emphasize that the GVN is
still considering and preparing for participation in peace support
operations (PSO). Necessary next steps by the GVN will include new
legislation that would authorize participation by GVN forces in PSOs
and a public awareness campaign to explain and create acceptance for
sending GVN forces outside Vietnam. According to Minh, there is no
timetable for these actions.

2. (SBU) Van Anh and Minh explained that the PSO issue is being
considered by an interagency working group consisting of
representatives of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Defense,
Public Security, Justice and Finance, with the MFA taking the lead.
This working-level group provides input for consideration by GVN
leadership. The GVN has participated in PSO capacity building
activities with Australia and Japan. Minh noted that the GVN has
sent only civilians to attend these training events, while other
countries typically sent military personnel. Van Anh said the GPOI
invitation would be shared with the interagency group and that the
Embassy would be informed of the GVN decision. Post will follow up
regularly and seek additional opportunities to discuss GPOI with GVN
decision-makers.

MICHALAK

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