Questions addressed by US Congressman Jim Ramstad of Minnesota

to The Honorable Pete Peterson, the US Ambassador to Vietnam

During the Congressional Hearing on the Jackson-Vanik Amendment Waiver for Vietnam

10:00 AM Thursday, June 15, 2000 at the US Capitol, Washington DC

Trade Benefits and Minorities

Statement. While I firmly believe that trade and economic development are vital to development of democracy in Vietnam, I am deeply concerned about the benefits of trade and economic development reaching down to the oppressed ethnic minorities--especially our former allies the Hmong, Khmer Krom and Montagnard.

Question. What specifically is the government of Vietnam doing (if anything) to promote economic development among minority groups?

Follow up. What is your country team is doing to encourage and monitor this situation?

Follow up. What more can and should be done?

Summary. We are right to help our former adversaries, but we should not forget our friends in the process. Like our MIA’s, treatment of our allies remains an open issue that should be worked whenever possible.

Request. I would appreciate hearing from you Mr. Ambassador, concerning:

1. The economic condition of each of the three groups mentioned above.
2. On going or planned actions either by governments or NGO’s to help ensure that the benefits of US Trade reach minorities.