FM's Spokesperson on ratification of the Vietnam-US BTA
On May 31, 2001 MOFA'S Spokesperson answers question from Reuters, San Jose Mercury News, DPA: What is Vietnam's reaction to news reports that early next week US Trade Representative Robert Zoelick will send the US-Vietnam trade agreement to Congress for ratification?
San Jose Mercury News: Is it possible for the National Assembly to ratify the US-Vietnam Trade Agreement before the Assembly's next session at the end of the year? Is it possible that the National Assembly might vote on the agreement during the current session?
Answer:
As we have clearly stated on many occasions, the Vietnam-US Trade Agreement was signed on the basis of respect for independence, sovereignty, equality in the interest of both countries. Early ratification and effective implementation of the agreement are in the interest of both Vietnam and the United States. The common opinion believes that the US Government and Congress should take expeditious and positive steps so that the Agreement can be ratified early, thus conforming to the interests of both countries and meeting the aspiration of numerous US officials, congressmen and the business community.
On the Vietnamese side, preparations for necessary conditions for the Agreement to be ratified are made in an expeditious and positive manner. Vietnam's National Assembly will promptly consider it as soon as conditions suffice. At exchanges and working sessions with the US side, Vietnam has frequently informed of its expeditious and positive preparations in order to implement the Vietnam-US Trade Agreement early and effectively.
