GVN URGES DIALOGUE AND COOPERATION IN DEALING WITH

C O N F I D E N T I A L HANOI 000531 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 05/06/2018 TAGS: PREL PGOV PHUM BM VM SUBJECT: GVN URGES DIALOGUE AND COOPERATION IN DEALING WITH BURMA REF: STATE 45471 Classified By: Political Counselor Brian Aggeler. Reasons 1.4 (b) and (d). ¶1. (C) On May 7, POLOFF discussed reftel points about the constitutional referendum in Burma with MFA Asia II Department Section Chief Ta Duy Chinh. Chinh welcomed the opportunity to hear U.S. views on the issue of "achieving reconciliation in Burma." He said the GVN supports genuine dialogue in Burma and that all efforts should contribute to durable stability and development in Burma and in Southeast Asia. In pursuing a comprehensive resolution of Burma's internal situation, Chinh urged reliance not on sanctions alone, but also on cooperation and trust building measures. ¶2. (C) Concerning an "ASEAN position" regarding Burma, Chinh acknowledged differences between ASEAN members, but suggested that ASEAN would respect its policy of non-intervention in the internal affairs of its members and that it would maintain its consensus approach to policy-making. He highlighted the complexity of Burma's historical situation, noting the presence of many ethnic groups and mini-states. Chinh said that, based on his experience, Burma has been open to dialogue with the GVN in contacts between high-level officials, at ASEAN meetings and with embassy officials. In these discussions, Vietnamese officials listened to the views of Burmese officials, as well as expressed the views of the international community. Chinh also asserted that there has been "positive change" in the situation in Burma over time. MICHALAK