VIETNAM: 2008 COUNTRY REPORTS ON TERRORISM

UNCLAS HANOI 001388 SENSITIVE SIPDIS DEPT FOR S/CT - RHONDA SHORE FOR NCTC E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PTER ASEC VM SUBJECT: VIETNAM: 2008 COUNTRY REPORTS ON TERRORISM REF: STATE 120019 ¶1. (SBU) Post reviewed the four categories of counterterrorism information described in reftel and discussed same with GVN counterterrorism authorities. No acts of international terrorism have occurred in Vietnam, nor is Vietnam designated as a state sponsor of terrorism. There is no information that suggests Vietnamese terrority is used as a safe haven for terrorists or terrorist organizations. There are no terrorist organizations known to be active in Vietnam. The United States has not sought the cooperation of the GVN in the investigation or prosecution of an act of international terrorism against U.S. citizens or interests. Vietnam is a party to eight out of twelve of the U.N. conventions on counterterrorism. Vietnam cooperates on counterterrorism initiatives in international forums, in particular in ASEAN-related events. Senior GVN officials invariably express formal GVN opposition to international terrorist incidents, and the GVN has not publicly supported a terrorist-supporting country on a terrorist-specific issue. The GVN does not support international terrorism, terrorists, or terrorist groups. Vietnam has never been included in the Patterns of Global Terrorism report. ¶2. (U) POC is RSO Gordon Hills, HillsWG@state.gov MICHALAK