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[DOCID: f:89609.wais]
108th Congress
1st Session COMMITTEE PRINT WMCP:
108-8
_______________________________________________________________________
SUBCOMMITTEE ON TRADE
OF THE
COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
__________
WRITTEN COMMENTS
ON
EXTENSION OF PERMANENT NORMAL TRADE RELATIONS STATUS TO ARMENIA,
MOLDOVA, AND LAOS
[GRAPHIC NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
APRIL 21, 2003
Printed for the use of the Committee on Ways and Means
U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
89-609 WASHINGTON : 2003
_____________________________________________________________________________
For Sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office
Internet: bookstore.gpo.gov Phone: toll free (866) 512-1800; (202) 512-1800
Fax: (202) 512-2250 Mail: Stop SSOP, Washington, DC 20402-0001
COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS
BILL THOMAS, California, Chairman
PHILIP M. CRANE, Illinois CHARLES B. RANGEL, New York
E. CLAY SHAW, JR., Florida FORTNEY PETE STARK, California
NANCY L. JOHNSON, Connecticut ROBERT T. MATSUI, California
AMO HOUGHTON, New York SANDER M. LEVIN, Michigan
WALLY HERGER, California BENJAMIN L. CARDIN, Maryland
JIM MCCRERY, Louisiana JIM MCDERMOTT, Washington
DAVE CAMP, Michigan GERALD D. KLECZKA, Wisconsin
JIM RAMSTAD, Minnesota JOHN LEWIS, Georgia
JIM NUSSLE, Iowa RICHARD E. NEAL, Massachusetts
SAM JOHNSON, Texas MICHAEL R. MCNULTY, New York
JENNIFER DUNN, Washington WILLIAM J. JEFFERSON, Louisiana
MAC COLLINS, Georgia JOHN S. TANNER, Tennessee
ROB PORTMAN, Ohio XAVIER BECERRA, California
PHIL ENGLISH, Pennsylvania LLOYD DOGGETT, Texas
J.D. HAYWORTH, Arizona EARL POMEROY, North Dakota
JERRY WELLER, Illinois MAX SANDLIN, Texas
KENNY C. HULSHOF, Missouri STEPHANIE TUBBS JONES, Ohio
SCOTT MCINNIS, Colorado
RON LEWIS, Kentucky
MARK FOLEY, Florida
KEVIN BRADY, Texas
PAUL RYAN, Wisconsin
ERIC CANTOR, Virginia
Allison H. Giles, Chief of Staff
Janice Mays, Minority Chief Counsel
------
SUBCOMMITTEE ON TRADE
PHILIP M. CRANE, Illinois, Chairman
E. CLAY SHAW, JR., Florida SANDER M. LEVIN, Michigan
AMO HOUGHTON, New York CHARLES B. RANGEL, New York
DAVE CAMP, Michigan RICHARD E. NEAL, Massachusetts
JIM RAMSTAD, Minnesota WILLIAM J. JEFFERSON, Louisiana
JENNIFER DUNN, Washington XAVIER BECERRA, California
WALLY HERGER, California JOHN S. TANNER, Tennessee
PHIL ENGLISH, Pennsylvania
JIM NUSSLE, Iowa
Pursuant to clause 2(e)(4) of Rule XI of the Rules of the House, public
hearing records of the Committee on Ways and Means are also published
in electronic form. The printed hearing record remains the official
version. Because electronic submissions are used to prepare both
printed and electronic versions of the hearing record, the process of
converting between various electronic formats may introduce
unintentional errors or omissions. Such occurrences are inherent in the
current publication process and should diminish as the process is
further refined.
C O N T E N T S
----------
Page
Advisory of Wednesday, March 5, 2003, announcing request for
written comments on the Extension of Permanent Normal Trade
Relations Status to Armenia, Moldova, and Laos................. 1
______
Aid to Artisans, Hartford, CT, Clare Brett Smith, letter......... 2
Agarwal, Sumit, Providence, RI, and Souphala Chomsisengphet,
Chevy Chase, MD, letter........................................ 37
Akkhamountry, Kaykeo, Oslo, Norway; Bounlom Keobouahom, Bergen,
Norway; Sitthiroth Rasphone, Norwich, UK; Xayadeth Phouyavong,
Ange, Sweden; Silavanh Sawathvong, Umea, Sweden; Vilachith
Phommasack, Uppsala, Sweden; Phonephet Chounlamountry, Taby,
Sweden; Khambou Hagberg, Skarpnack, Sweden; Vanthong
Phengvichith, Uppsala, Sweden; Vanvilay Phalamixay, Vallingby,
Sweden; Amphone Souvannasy, Jokkmok, Sweden; and Viengphet
Vanthanouvong, Uppsala, Sweden, letter......................... 3
Aloun Farms, Kapolei, HI, Alec Sou, letter and attachment........ 4
Alton, Charles, Vientiane, Lao PDR, letter....................... 7
American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore, Singapore, Kristin E.
Paulson, letter................................................ 8
American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand, Bangkok, Thailand,
Ellen Devlin, letter........................................... 9
American Friends Service Committee, Philadelphia, PA, David
Elder, letter.................................................. 10
Andersen, Phaeng Toommaly, United Laotian Community, Oakland, CA,
letter and attachment.......................................... 184
Armenian Assembly of America, Hirair Hovnanian and Peter
Vosbikian, letter.............................................. 10
Armenian National Committee of America, Glendale, CA, Aram S.
Hamparian, letter.............................................. 12
Armstrong, Mark, Woodbridge, VA, letter (identical letter
received from 163 other individuals)........................... 14
Association Boun enfants des rizieres, Marseille, France, Boun
Siyavong, letter............................................... 14
Association Le Fragipanier, Mende, France, Khamsing Phothirath,
M.D., joint letter (See listing under Fraternite France-Laos,
Le Vigan, France).............................................. 52
Autor, Erik O., National Retail Federation, letter............... 141
Bassett, Elizabeth, Charlotte, VT, letter........................ 14
Baynham, Kirsten, PhonTong Handicrafts Cooperative, Vientiane,
Lao PDR, letter................................................ 154
Benson, Sally, letter............................................ 14
Beri, Ti M., Falls Church, VA, letter............................ 15
Berk, Marvin, Long Island City, NY, letter (identical letter
received from 11 other individuals)............................ 16
Bledowski, Gary Lee, Belleville, MI, letter (identical letter
received from 113 other individuals)........................... 16
Bliatout, Sam, Fresno, CA, letter................................ 17
Bliayang, et al., Moua Sao, Lanxang Democracy, Inc., Roseville,
MN, letter..................................................... 67
Boualouang, Sonelay, Saint Paul, MN, letter...................... 17
Bounsouaysana, Prasith Sid, Dallas, TX, letter................... 18
Boutah, Anola, Arlington, VA, letter............................. 18
Bower, Ernest Z., US-ASEAN Business Council, letter and
attachment..................................................... 194
Braun, Caristan, South Riping, VA, letter (identical letters
received from 113 individuals)................................. 19
California-Asia Business Council (Cal-Asia), Alameda, CA, Jeremy
W. Potash, letter.............................................. 20
Cardin, Hon. Benjamin L., Commission on Security and Cooperation
in Europe, letters............................................. 38
Carroll, Mark and Janice Carroll, Big Lake, MN, letter........... 20
Caterpillar Asia, Singapore, Mark Schoeneman, letter............. 21
CFCO International, Tony R. Culley-Foster, letter and attachments 21
Chagnon, Jacquelyn, and Reverend Roger Rumpf, Warrensburg, MI,
letter and attachment.......................................... 25
Chaleunrath, Vilay, Alexandria, VA, letter....................... 27
Chang, Charlie J., Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos
Friendship, Washington State Representation, Seattle, WA,
letter and attachment.......................................... 123
Chanthavong, Kommaly, PhonTong-CAMA Handicraft Cooperative,
Vientiane, Lao PDR, letter..................................... 155
Chanthyasack, ``Sirch'' Sourichanh, Jersey City, NJ, letter and
attachments.................................................... 27
Childress, Richard T., Flat Rock, NC, letter..................... 36
Chomsisengphet, Souphala, Chevy Chase, MD and Sumit Agarwal,
Providence, RI, letter......................................... 37
Chounlamountry, Phonephet, et al., Taby, Sweden, letter.......... 3
Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, Hon. Benjamin
L. Cardin and Hon. Christopher H. Smith, letters............... 38
Concern Worldwide, Vientiane, Lao PDR, Stuart Highton, letter.... 39
Congsa, Jack, San Diego, CA, letter (identical letters received
from 168 other individuals).................................... 40
Consortium of World Education and World Learning, Boston, MA,
Connie Woodberry, letter....................................... 40
Council of Lao Representatives Abroad--Oceanic Region, NSW
Australia, Kat Ditthavong, letter and attachment............... 41
Crapa, Joseph R., United States Commission on International
Religious Freedom, letter and attachment....................... 188
Culley-Foster, Tony R., CFCO International, letter and
attachments.................................................... 21
Cyrille, M.D., Vongsouthi, Montpellier, France; Souk-Aloun
Jocelin, M.D., Rodez, France; Souk-Aloun Phou, M.D., Le Vigan,
France; Amphonesinh Sengphet, M.D., Montpellier, France;
Phothirath Khamsing, M.D., Mende, France, letter............... 48
Dacey, Kristin, Stamford, CT, letter............................. 48
Dalpino, Catharin E., letter..................................... 48
Dang, Bao N., Columbia, MD, letter............................... 49
Dao, Yang, Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos
Friendship, Minnesota State Representation, Brooklyn Park, MN,
letter and attachment.......................................... 98
Dao, Yang, Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos
Friendship, Washington State Representation, Seattle, WA,
letter and attachment.......................................... 123
Dao, Yang, Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos
Friendship, Wisconsin State Representation, Wausau, WI, letter
and attachment................................................. 129
Darapheth, Chansamone, Fort Worth, TX, letter.................... 50
DeBruin, Jerry, Toledo, OH, letter............................... 50
Devlin, Ellen, American Chamber of Commerce in Thiland, Bangkok,
Thailand, letter............................................... 9
Ditthavong, Kat, Council of Lao Representatives Abroad--Oceanic
Region, NSW 2177 Australia, letter and attachment.............. 41
Doran, David, Mekong Law Group, Bangkok, Thailand, letter........ 138
Duckles, Madeline, Women's International League for Peace and
Freedom, Philadelphia, PA, letter.............................. 213
Durant, Andrew G., letter........................................ 51
Edgar, Joanne, New York, NY, letter.............................. 51
Elder, David, American Friends Service Committee, Philadelphia,
PA, letter..................................................... 10
Ferchak, John, Vientiane, Lao PDR, letter........................ 52
Fraternite France-Laos, Le Vigan, France, Phoungeun Souk-Aloun,
M.D., and Association Le Fragipanier, Mende, France, Khamsing
Phothirath, M.D., joint letter................................. 52
Fund for Reconciliation and Development, New York, NY: John
McAuliff, letter and attachment, Susan Hammond, letter.........
General Assembly of Delegates of Laotians Abroad (GADLA),
Scottsdale, AZ, Sin Vilay, joint letter and attachments........ 204
Global Advance Technology, Inc., Wichita, KS, Khamphoui Manyseng,
letter......................................................... 53
Green, Hon. Mark, a Representative in Congress from the State of
Wisconsin, and Hon. George Radanovich, a Representative in
Congress from the State of California, letter.................. 53
Greenwell, Geoffrey, letter...................................... 55
Griffin, Pamela, Bethesda, MD, letter............................ 55
Griffiths, Ann Mills, Arlington, VA, letter...................... 56
Hagberg, Khambou, et al., Skarpnack, Sweden, letter.............. 3
Hamilton, Michael, RM Asia (HK) Limited, Vientiane, Lao PDR,
letter......................................................... 160
Hamparian, Aram S., Armenian National Committee of America,
Glendale, CA, letter........................................... 12
Hansel, Troy, Vientiane, Lao PDR, letter......................... 56
Health Frontiers, Kenyon, MN, Karen Olness and Hakon Torjesen,
letter......................................................... 57
Health Frontiers, Vientiane, Lao PDR, Leila Srour, MD and Bryan
Watt, letter................................................... 57
Highton, Stuart, Concern Worldwide, Vientiane, Lao PDR, letter... 39
Hmong American Planning and Development Center, Inc., Arlington,
TX, Thao Phia Xaykao, letter................................... 58
Hmong International Human Rights Watch, Omaha, NE, Laura Xiong,
letter......................................................... 59
Hodgdon, Benjamin D., New Haven, CT, letter...................... 61
Hovnanian, Hirair, Armenian Assembly of America, letter.......... 10
Hsieh, Willy, WILKRIS & CO AB, Stockholm, Sweden, letter......... 211
Ichord, J. William, Unocal Corp., letter......................... 193
Iizuka, Fumie, letter............................................ 62
International Mass Retail Association, Arlington, VA, Sandy
Kennedy, letter................................................ 62
Jacobs, B. Jake, Spyder Active Sports, Boulder, CO, letter....... 173
Jhai Foundation, San Francisco, CA, Lee Thorn, letter............ 62
Jocelin, M.D., Souk-Aloun, et al., Rodez, France, letter......... 48
Johnson, Arlyne, Vientiane, Lao PDR, letter...................... 63
Jones, Laura E., United States Association of Importers of
Textiles and Apparel, New York, NY, letter..................... 188
Jones, Robert L., letter......................................... 63
Kataviravong, Bounleuang, Movement for Democracy in Laos,
Burnsville, MN, letter......................................... 140
Kennedy, Sandy, International Mass Retail Association, Arlington,
VA, letter..................................................... 62
Kent, Mary Day, Women's International League for Peace and
Freedom, Philadelphia, PA, letter.............................. 213
Keobouahom, Bounlom, et al., Bergen, Norway, letter.............. 3
Ker, Ammone, Falls Church, VA, letter and attachment (identical
letter and attachment received from 8 other individuals)....... 64
Khaligian, A. Zohrab, Racine, WI, letter......................... 65
Khamsing, M.D., Phothirath, et al., Mende, France, letter........ 48
Kilty, Mary, New York, NY, letter................................ 66
King, Jean and James D. King, Burton, MI, letter................. 66
Lanxang Democracy, Inc., Roseville, MN, Moua Sao Bliayang et al.,
letter......................................................... 67
Lao American National Republican Party of U.S.A., Tennessee
Chapter, Antioch, TN, Noukane Souriyavongsa, letter and
attachment..................................................... 69
Lao American National Republican Party, State of Wisconsin,
Milwaukee, WI, Bounliane Rajphoumy, letter..................... 75
Lao Community in Victoria, Victoria, Australia, Saly Saygnabouth
and Pao Saykao, M.D., letter................................... 76
Lao Diaspora, Paris, France, letter and attachment............... 78
Lao Human Rights Council, Inc., U.S.A., Eau Claire, WI, Vang
Pobzeb, letter and attachment.................................. 80
Lao Representative Abroad, Ontario, Canada, Samrith
Phromkharanourak, letter....................................... 89
Lao-American College, Vientiane, Lao PDR, Virginia Van Ostrand,
letters........................................................ 90
Lao-American Community of the Northwest, Seattle, WA, Khamphay
Muangchanh and Khamsene Thaviseth, letter...................... 92
Lao-Australian Institute for Co-operation and Development,
Campbelltown, NSW, Australia, Kevin Prakoonheang, letter....... 93
Laos Institute for Democracy, Khampoua Naovarangsy, letter....... 94
Laotian American Council, North Providence, RI, Thongsavanh
Phongsavan, statement.......................................... 94
Laotian-American National Coalition, Richmond, CA, letter and
attachment..................................................... 95
Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos Friendship,
Minnesota State Representation, Brooklyn Park, MN, San
Souvannasoth and Yang Dao, letter and attachment............... 98
Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos Friendship,
Washington State Representation, Seattle, WA, Charlie J. Chang,
and Yang Dao, letter and attachment............................ 123
Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos Friendship,
Wisconsin State Representation, Wausau, WI, Sou Yang and Yang
Dao, letter and attachment..................................... 129
Lo, Pao, Morristown, NC, letter.................................. 135
Louisiana Regional Lao Republicans, Baton Rouge, LA, Somdy Rasy,
letter......................................................... 136
Luangphinith, Kouy, Falls Church, VA, letter..................... 137
Manyseng, Khamphoui, Global Advance Technology, Inc., Wichita,
KS, letter..................................................... 53
McAuliff, Tara, New York, NY, letter............................. 137
McCrae, Betsy Headrick, Mennonite Central Committee, Akron, PA,
letter......................................................... 139
Mekong Law Group, Bangkok, Thailand, David Doran, letter......... 138
Mennonite Central Committee, Akron, PA, Betsy Headrick McCrae,
letter......................................................... 139
Meyers, Paul, Ten Thousand Villages, Akron, PA, letter........... 175
Movement for Democracy in Laos, Burnsville, MN, Bounleuang
Kataviravong, letter........................................... 140
Muangchanh, Khanphay, Lao-American Community of the Northwest,
Seattle, WA, letter............................................ 92
Naovarangsy, Khampoua, Laos Institute for Democracy, letter...... 94
National Retail Federation, Erik O. Autor, letter................ 141
Nichols Properties Inc., Palm Springs, CA, Stephen C. Nichols,
letter......................................................... 142
NSCJ: Advocates on behalf of Jews in Russia, Ukraine, the Baltic
States and Eurasia, statement.................................. 142
Numi, Carlie, Kensington, MD, letter............................. 145
Odlo U.S.A., Farmington, ME, Leonard J. Widen, letter............ 146
Olness, M.D., Karen, Health Frontiers, Kenyon, MN, letter........ 57
Organization of Lao Student for Independence and Democracy,
Katowice, Poland, Bounthanh Thammavong, letter................. 146
Ostrand, Virginia Van, Lao-American College, Vientiane, Lao PDR,
letters........................................................ 90
Pacific Inter-Trading and Consulting Co., St. Paul, MN, Wayne
Saykao, letter................................................. 149
PacMar Inc., Honolulu, HI, Puongpun Sananikone, letter and
attachment..................................................... 150
Paulson, Kristin E., American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore,
Singapore, letter.............................................. 8
Penrose, Nancy L., Redmond, WA, letter........................... 151
Phalamixay, Vanvilay, et al., Vallingby, Sweden, letter.......... 3
Phengvichith, Vanthong, et al., Uppsala, Sweden, letter.......... 3
Phimviengkham, Thiphasone, letter................................ 152
Phommahaxay, His Excellency Phanthong, letter.................... 152
Phommasack, Vilachith, et al., Uppsala, Sweden, letter........... 3
Phongsavan, Thongsavanh, Laotian American Council, North
Providence, RI, statement...................................... 94
PhonTong Handicrafts Cooperative, Vientiane, Lao PDR, Kirsten
Baynham, letter................................................ 154
PhonTong-CAMA Handicraft Cooperative, Vientiane, Lao PDR, Kommaly
Chanthavong, letter............................................ 155
Photirath, M.D., Khamsing, Association Le Fragipanier, Mende,
France, joint letter (See listing under Fraternite France-Laos,
Le Vigan, France).............................................. 52
Phou, M.D., Souk-Aloun, et al., Le Vigan, France, letter......... 48
Phouyavong, Xayadeth, et al., Ange, Sweden, letter............... 3
Phraxayavong, Viliam, Hinchinbrook, NSW, Australia, letter....... 156
Phromkharanourak, Samrith, Lao Representative Abroad, Ontario,
Canada, letter................................................. 89
Pobzeb, Vang, Lao Human Rights Council, Inc., U.S.A., Eau Claire,
WI, letter and attachment...................................... 80
Pong, Tom, Denver, CO, letter.................................... 157
Potash, Jeremy W., California-Asia Business Council (Cal-Asia),
Alameda, CA, letter............................................ 20
Potkin, Alan, DeKalb, IL, letter................................. 159
Prakoonheang, Kevin, Lao-Australian Institute for Co-operation
and Development, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia, letter.......... 93
RM Asia (HK) Limited, Vientiane, Lao PDR, Michael Hamilton,
letter......................................................... 160
Rajphoumy, Bounliane, Lao American National Republican Party,
State of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, letter...................... 75
Rasphone, Sitthiroth, et al., Norwich, UK, letter................ 3
Rasy, Somdy, Louisiana Regional Lao Republicans, Baton Rouge, LA,
letter......................................................... 136
Rathigna, Bounthanh, United League for Democracy in Laos, Inc.,
statement...................................................... 186
Rattanasamay, Pathana, Aiea, HI, letter.......................... 160
Rattanavong, Boune Ome, Potomac Falls, VA, letter................ 161
Recker, Keith, New York, NY, letter.............................. 162
Reece, Rick, Village Focus International, Portland, OR, letter... 209
Rizalvo, Jonathan R., Arlington, VA, letter...................... 162
Robin Stevens Consulting, Ltd., New York, NY, Robin C. Stevens,
letter......................................................... 163
Rosacker, Harlan F., letter...................................... 163
Rumpf, Reverend Roger, and Jacquelyn Chagnon, Warrensburg, MI,
letter and attachment.......................................... 25
Sage, William W., Woodside, NY, letter........................... 164
Sananikone, Puongpun, PacMar Inc., Honolulu, HI, letter and
attachment..................................................... 150
Santivong, Kongphanh Esq., letter................................ 165
Sattanak, Kwanchit, Glendale, AZ, letter......................... 165
Sawathvong, Silavanh, et al., Umea, Sweden, letter............... 3
Saygnabouth, Slay, Lao Community in Victoria, Victoria,
Australia, letter.............................................. 76
Saykao, M.D., Pao, Lao Community in Victoria, Victoria,
Australia, letter.............................................. 76
Saykao, Wayne, Pacific Inter-Trading and Consulting Co., St.
Paul, MN, letter............................................... 149
Schipani, Steven, Takoma Park, MD, letter........................ 166
Schoeneman, Mark, Catepillar Asia, Singapore, letter............. 21
Scott, Sue, Troy, MI, letter..................................... 166
Scowcroft, Brent, letter......................................... 167
Seiple, Hon. Robert A., St. Davids, PA, letter and attachment.... 168
Sengphet, M.D., Amphonesinh, et al., Montpelier, France, letter.. 48
Sigaty, Todd, Village Focus International, Portland, OR, letter.. 209
Sihavong, Narin, Brooklyn Park, MN, letter....................... 170
Sinantha, Sadachanh, Chicago, IL, letter......................... 171
Sisaket, Thomas, Rogers, MN, letter.............................. 171
Sithammavanh, Bounlom, Stockholm, Sweden, letter................. 171
Siyavong, Boun, Association Boun enfants des rizieres, Marseille,
France, letter................................................. 14
Smith, Clare Brett, Aid to Artisans, Hartford, CT, letter........ 2
Smith, Hon. Christopher H., Commission on Security and
Cooperation in Europe, letters................................. 38
Sou, Alec, Aloun Farms, Kapolei, HI, letter and atachment........ 4
Souk-Aloun, M.D., Phoungeun, Fraternite France-Laos, Le Vigan,
France, joint letter (See listing under Fraternite France-Laos,
Le Vigan, France).............................................. 52
Soukhaseum, Anourack, Spring Valley, CA, letter.................. 172
Souriyavongsa, Noukane, Lao American National Republican Party of
U.S.A., Tennessee Chapter, Antioch, TN, letter and attachment.. 69
Souvannasoth, San, Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos
Friendship, Minnesota State Representation, Brooklyn Park, MN,
letter and attachment.......................................... 98
Souvannasy, Amphone, et al., Jokkmok, Sweden, letter............. 3
Spivak, Stacy, Ten Thousand Villages, Akron, PA, letter.......... 175
Spyder Active Sports, Boulder, CO, B. Jake Jacobs, letter........ 173
Srour, M.D., Health Frontiers, Vientiane, Lao PDR, letter........ 57
Stevens, Robin C., Robin Stevens Consulting, Ltd., New York, NY,
letter......................................................... 163
Stevenson, John E., Glendale, CA, letter......................... 173
Tatpaporn, Gary, US-Lao Trading Corp., San Pablo, CA, letter..... 202
Tayanin, Damrong, Lund, Sweden, letter........................... 174
Ten Thousand Villages, Akron, PA, Paul Meyers and Stacy Spivak,
letter......................................................... 175
Thammavong, Bounthanh, Organization of Lao Student for
Independence and Democracy, Katowice, Poland, letter........... 146
Thao, Bo and KaYing Yang, letter................................. 176
Thao, Vang, United Hmong International, Inc., Fresno, CA, letter. 180
Thaviseth, Khamsene, Lao-American Community of the Northwest,
Seattle, WA, letter............................................ 92
Thorn, Lee, Jhai Foundation, San Fransisco, CA, letter........... 62
Tomseth, Hon. Victor L., Vienna, VA, letter...................... 179
Torjeson, Hakon, Health Frontiers, Kenyon, MN, letter............ 57
U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Willard A. Workman, letter............. 180
United Hmong International, Inc., Fresno, CA, Vang Thao, letter.. 180
United Lao Action Center (ULAC), Sterling, VA, Sin Vilay, joint
letter and attachments......................................... 204
United Lao/Hmong Congress for Democracy, Eau Claire, WI, Stephen
Vang, letter................................................... 182
United Laotian Americans, Brooklyn Center, MN, Laxa Yabandith,
letter......................................................... 183
United Laotian Community, Oakland, CA, Phaeng Toommaly Andersen,
letter and attachment.......................................... 184
United League for Democracy in Laos, Inc., Bounthanh Rathigna,
statement...................................................... 186
United States Association of Importers of Textiles and Apparel,
New York, NY, Laura E. Jones, letter........................... 188
United States Commission on International Religious Freedom,
Joseph R. Crapa, letter and attachment......................... 188
Unocal Corp., J. William Ichord, letter.......................... 193
US-ASEAN Business Council, Ernest Z. Bower, letter and attachment 194
US-Lao Trading Corp., San Pablo, CA, Gary Tatpaporn, letter...... 202
Utarasint, Daungyewa, Silver Spring, MD, letter.................. 202
Vang, Pang Blia, Wisconsin Lao Veterans of America, Inc.,
Monomonie, WI, letter.......................................... 212
Vang, Stephen, United Lao/Hmong International, Inc., Fresno, CA,
letter......................................................... 182
Vang, Tsuchue P., North Saint Paul, MN, letter................... 203
Vanthanouvong, Viengphet, et al., Uppsala, Sweden, letter........ 3
Vilay, Sin, General Assembly of Delegates of Laotians Abroad
(GADLA), Scottsdale, AZ, and United Lao Action Center (ULAC),
Sterling, VA, joint letter and attachments..................... 204
Village Focus International, Portland, OR, Todd Sigaty and Rick
Reece, letter.................................................. 209
Vongnongvar, Sunthorn, Stockholm, Sweden, letter................. 210
Vosbikian, Peter, Armenian Assembly of America, letter........... 10
Watt, Bryan, Health Frontiers, Vientiane, Lao PDR, letter........ 57
Weidman, Julia H., Hilton Head Island, SC, letter................ 210
Widen, Leonard J., Odlo U.S.A., Farmington, ME, letter........... 146
WILKRIS & CO AB, Stockholm, Sweden, Willy Hsieh, letter.......... 211
Wisconsin Lao Veterans of America, Inc., Monomonie, WI, Pang Blia
Vang, letter................................................... 212
Womens' International League for Peace and Freedom, Philadelphia,
PA, Madeline Duckles and Mary Day Kent, letter................. 213
Woodberry, Connie, Consortium of World Education and World
Learning, Boston MA, letter.................................... 40
Workman, David R., Lancaster, PA, letter......................... 213
Workman, Willard A., U.S. Chamber of Commerce, letter............ 180
Xaykao, Thao Phia, Hmong American Planning and Development
Center, Inc., Arlington, TX, letter............................ 58
Xiong, Laura, Hmong International Human Rights Watch, Omaha, NE,
letter......................................................... 59
Yang, Ge, Brooklyn Center, MN, letter............................ 213
Yang, KaYing, and Bo Thao, letter................................ 176
Yang, Kou, Ed.D., Turlock, CA, letter............................ 215
Yang, Sou, Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos
Friendship, Wisconsin State Representation, Wausau, WI, letter
and attachment................................................. 129
Yangsao, Sayasith L., Brooklyn Park, MN, letter.................. 216
Yabandith, Laxa, United Laotian Americans, Brooklyn Center, MN,
letter......................................................... 183
Yong, Ong Keng, Jakarta, Indonesia, letter....................... 217
Zwenig, Frances A., letter....................................... 218
ADVISORY
FROM THE
COMMITTEE
ON WAYS
AND
MEANS
SUBCOMMITTEE ON TRADE
CONTACT: (202) 225-6649
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 05, 2003
No. TR-1
Crane Announces Request for Written Comments
on the Extension of Permanent Normal Trade
Relations Status to Armenia, Moldova, and Laos
Congressman Philip M. Crane (R-IL), Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
of the Committee on Ways and Means, today announced that the
Subcommittee is requesting written public comments for the record from
all parties interested in the extension of permanent normal trade
relations (PNTR) treatment to products from Armenia and Moldova and
normal trade relations (NTR) status to the products of Laos.
BACKGROUND:
Armenia and Moldova
Armenia and Moldova are subject to the Jackson-Vanik provisions in
Title IV of the Trade Act of 1974 (P.L. 93-618), which govern the
extension of NTR to non-market economy countries ineligible for such
status as of the enactment of the Trade Act. Armenia and Moldova were
first extended NTR in 1992 under a waiver from the freedom of
emigration requirements in the statute. In 1997, the President found
Armenia and Moldova to be in full compliance with the emigration
criteria, and the trade status of both countries remains subject to
semi-annual Jackson-Vanik compliance determinations by the President,
which are vulnerable to a resolution of disapproval by Congress. To
date, no Member has introduced such a resolution concerning Armenia or
Moldova.
Section 122 of the Uruguay Round Agreements Act (P.L. 103-465)
requires Congressional consultation prior to any country's accession to
the World Trade Organization (WTO). The United States Trade
Representative transmitted detailed materials to the Committee on Ways
and Means on the accessions of Moldova and Armenia to the WTO on March
9, 2001 and December 4, 2002, respectively. Moldova acceded to the WTO
on July 26, 2001, and Armenia joined the body on February 5, 2003.
Because the United States has not extended PNTR status to Moldova or
Armenia, due to the continued application of the Jackson-Vanik
provisions to both countries, the United States has invoked the non-
application clause of the WTO (Article XIII). Until PNTR is extended to
Armenia and Moldova, the WTO Agreements and the terms of their
accessions will not be formally applied between each country and the
United States, and U.S. trade relations with each country will continue
to be governed by bilateral trade agreements.
On February 4, 2003, Representatives Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) and
Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), co-Chairmen of the Congressional Caucus on
Armenian Issues, introduced H.R. 528, a bill to authorize the extension
of nondiscriminatory treatment (permanent normal trade relations) to
the products of Armenia. Chairman Crane plans to introduce similar
legislation for Moldova. If these bills become law, the United States
would be able to extend PNTR to Armenia and Moldova, and all rights and
obligations under the WTO agreed to by the two countries would apply to
the United States.
Laos
Laos does not currently receive NTR status because it is included
in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) of the United States in General
Note 3(b) on the list of countries whose products are subject to column
2 (non-NTR) tariff rates. Jackson-Vanik provisions in the Trade Act of
1974 do not apply to Laos because the country was not a ``non-market
economy'' when the Trade Act was passed on January 3, 1975.
The Lao Government has been introducing economic reforms since 1986
and is slowly becoming integrated with its neighbors in the Southeast
Asian region. Laos joined the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in
1997, and Laos is in the early stages of negotiations to become a
member of the WTO. In 1997, the United States and the Lao People's
Democratic Republic concluded a bilateral trade agreement which calls
for a reciprocal extension of NTR. That agreement has not yet entered
into force. The agreement will obligate Laos to open its markets to
U.S. goods and services and to protect U.S. intellectual property
rights. The agreement will represent an important step toward economic
reform and openness, key U.S. priorities in Laos.
The only action required to grant permanent NTR status to Laos and
to enact the 1997 bilateral trade agreement is for Congress to enact
legislation amending the HTS to strike Laos permanently from General
Note 3(b). On February 24, 2003, Secretary of State Colin Powell and
United States Trade Representative Robert Zoellick sent a joint letter
to Congress expressing the Administration's support for extending NTR
status to Laos and for bringing into force the 1997 agreement.
DETAILS FOR SUBMISSION OF WRITTEN COMMENTS:
Please Note: Due to the change in House mail policy, any person or
organization wishing to submit a written statement for the printed
record of the hearing should send it electronically to
hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov, along with a fax copy to
(202) 225-2610, by the close of business, Monday, April 21, 2003. The
U.S. Capitol Police will refuse sealed-packaged deliveries to all House
Office Buildings.
FORMATTING REQUIREMENTS:
Each statement presented for printing to the Committee by a
witness, any written statement or exhibit submitted for the printed
record or any written comments in response to a request for written
comments must conform to the guidelines listed below. Any statement or
exhibit not in compliance with these guidelines will not be printed,
but will be maintained in the Committee files for review and use by the
Committee.
1. Due to the change in House mail policy, all statements and any
accompanying exhibits for printing must be submitted electronically to
hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov, along with a fax copy to
(202) 225-2610, in WordPerfect or MS Word format and MUST NOT exceed a
total of 10 pages including attachments. Witnesses are advised that the
Committee will rely on electronic submissions for printing the official
hearing record.
2. Copies of whole documents submitted as exhibit material will not
be accepted for printing. Instead, exhibit material should be
referenced and quoted or paraphrased. All exhibit material not meeting
these specifications will be maintained in the Committee files for
review and use by the Committee.
3. Any statements must include a list of all clients, persons, or
organizations on whose behalf the witness appears. A supplemental sheet
must accompany each statement listing the name, company, address,
telephone and fax numbers of each witness.
Note: All Committee advisories and news releases are available on
the World Wide Web at http://waysandmeans.house.gov.
<F-dash>
Aid to Artisans
Hartford, Connecticut 06114
April 2, 2003
To Whom It May Concern:
We are writing to voice our support for Normal Trade Relations
(NTR) with Laos, one of the world's least developed countries. We ask
that the legislature pass the necessary legislation to extend NTR to
Laos and bring into force the bilateral trade agreements concluded in
1997. NTR will benefit both the US and Laos. Increased trade between
our two countries will lead to greater economic opportunities and
swifter economic development in Laos. The lifting of the tariffs will
directly improve the living standards of hundreds of weavers,
silversmiths, and basket-makers whose way of life, which is such an
important part of the economy and so undemanding of the environment, is
severely penalized by the current tariffs. We feel it would be wise in
this time of war to be able to make a simple peaceable improvement in
the lives of hard-working people, such as these artisans. Laos is a
member of ASEAN, an organization with which the US is working to
strengthen regional stability. As such, Laos deserves the same benefit
of NTR as its fellow ASEAN members.
Thank you for your consideration,
Clare Brett Smith
President
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
From: A group of Lao community in Nordic countries and UK
To: Honorable Members of Subcommittee of Trade, USA House of
Representatives
Granting NTR to LaoPDR is a right way that American Congressmen choose
and make two countries close partners in the trade.
______
Honorable Members of House of Representatives
We, undersigned, believe that a currently emerging support from
American people and Congressmen to approve the NTR agreement for the
LaoPDR is a supremacy of foreign policy of the USA towards the
developing countries. This tendency paves the way for opening the
prospects of ASEAN-American free trade area and to promote the
investment. The ASEAN-American free trade area will be a good model for
the other regions.
In realising this goal, the NTR must be given to the LaoPDR. Laos
is the only remaining country in southeast Asia without NTR. Laos is
rated one of the poorest developing countries in the world but due to
the discriminatory tariffs barriers with the United States they are
subject to the highest average tariffs.
Looking at the Lao-American relations,our two countries have always
maintained the unbroken diplomatic relations since its 1955 year
establishment. Both countries have cooperated each other in different
fields, such as POW/MIA, drug programmes and counter-terrorism. These
activities have been implemented successfully in the LaoPDR. The
American delegations at different level while visiting Laos appreciate
the POW/MIA programmes and the Opening Market Economic Policy in the
country. They are also satisfied with the changes in the political and
economic fields in Laos,where the first constitution in 1991 and from
that the number of laws have been adopted by the National Assembly.
The Lao government has attached great importance to improving the
living standard of the people in the whole country. In the National
Assembly and the government there are more women taking the high
positions. There is not a big gap between men and women in the
political,economic and social administration. The equality gender has
been improved. The ethnic minorities or tribes enjoy their full rights
to carry out their engagement to work for the prosperity of the
country.
Unfortunately, the financial and economic crisis in the Asia in the
1997 has affected LAoPDR so far,the Lao government seeks the ways to
integrate the country into the World Economies and to create the
conditions for becoming a member of WTO in the future. But,Laos lacks
the NTR from the USA which is a fundamental instrument in order to
attract more investors from the USA.
The sound and safe economies of LaoPDR rests with the NTR
granting,as the US market is big and reliable partner for ASEAN
countries. Lao and American business people need to cooperate each
other in the field of trade and investment.
We are convinced that granting NTR to Laos can bring only mutual
benefit to our both countries. It will also contribute to improving the
living standard of the Laos people and to reduce the poverty and create
the conditions for WTO membership in the future.
Finally, the LaoPDR will be left out underdevelopment in 2020.
Granting the NTR will also develop the small and medium business
sectors in the LaoPDR and pave the ways for investors from the USA to
Laos.
We would like honorable members to consider the normalization of
trading relations between the USA and LaoPDR and urge the Congressmen
to adopt the NTR agreement. The adoption of the NTR for LaoPDR will
strengthen the bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
Stockholm, 16 April 2003
Respecfully yours,
Kaykeo Akkhamountry, Oslo, Norway, Bounlom Keobouahom, Bergen,
Norway, Sitthiroth Rasphone, Norwich, U.K., Xayadeth Phouyavong,
Ange, Sweden, Silavanh Sawathvong, Umea, Sweden, Vilachith
Phommasack, Uppsala, Sweden, Phonephet Chounlamountry, Taby,
Sweden, Khambou Hagberg, Skarpnack, Sweden, Vanthong Phengvichith,
Uppsala, Sweden, Vanvilay Phalamixay, Vallingby, Sweden, Amphone
Souvannasy, Jokkmok, Sweden, Viengphet Vanthanouvong, Uppsala,
Sweden
<F-dash>
Aloun Farms
Kapolei, Hawaii 96709
Honorable Philip M Crane,
Chairman Subcommittee on Trade,
Committee on Ways and Means
House of Representatives,
United States Congress
Honorable Edward Case,
Congressman (Hawaii)
House of Representatives,
United States Congress
Dear Congressmen Crane and Case:
My family and I are Hawaii-based Laotian American and owned and
operate Aloun Farm, Inc. one of Hawaii State larger grower of
vegetables, melons, and corn that operates 3,200 acres and employs over
200 workers in Central Oahu. I am writing in support of the Bush
Administration's recommendation to grant permanent NTR to Laos (Lao
People's Democratic Republic). In accord with my fellow colleague of
Laotian-American community leaders/professionals in Hawaii and those
across the U.S. Mainland, I respectfully urge your full review of our
joint statements, and take favorable action by your esteemed Committee.
The said statement outlines the socio-political, and humanitarian
reasons for granting the NTR to Laos.
Laos is geo-politically located in a critical place and holds a
tremendous social and economic potential value not only to its ASEAN
neighboring countries, but can be a rich agriculture trading region
with the U.S. in the years ahead. In recent years, I had the privilege
to travel throughout Asia and have started a few businesses in Thailand
and Southern China in the agriculture trade. I see Laos to have the
idea resources and climate to grow fruits and vegetables during the
winter months that the greater north Asia cannot. Allowing US-NTR
status to Laos will pave the way with such agricultural and economic
growth that will pave the foundation for a stability region.
Sincerely,
Alec Sou
General Manager/Owner
______
Dear Friends and Relatives: Pleases write a few lines (copy the
Statement attached to my later) and send it out. Ask as many of your
friends who are U.S. citizens to write to both Crane and their own
congressan (for Hawaii residence copy Congressman Neil Abercrombie,
email as shown below; or Ed Case ed.case@mail.house.gov). you can also
fax or both fax and email. Your letter counts. Deadline is 21 April.
Rush! PP
From: Puongpun
To: hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
Cc: neil.abercrombie@mail.house.gov
Sent: Saturday, April 12, 2003 08:14
Subject: Support for Granting U.S Normal Trade Relation (NTR) to Laos
April 11, 2003, Honolulu, Hawaii
Honorable Philip M Crane, Chairman,
Subcommittee on Trade,
Committee on Ways and Means'
House of Representatives,
United States Congress.
Honorable Neil Abercrombie,
Congressman (Hawaii)
House of Representatives,
United States Congress
Dear Congressmen Crane and Abercrombie:
I am a Hawaii-based Laotian American and President and CEO of
Pacific Management Resources (PacMar Inc.), a well-established
international consulting company that has been providing professional
and business advisory services throughout the Asia Pacific region for
the past two decades.
I am writing in support of the Bush Administration's recommendation
to grant permanent NTR to Laos (Lao People's Democratic Republic).
For this purpose, I have attached a statement which was jointly
drafted and adopted by key Laotian-American community leaders/
professionals in Hawaii and those across the U.S. Mainland. The said
statement, in my view, reflects very accurately the opinions of the
vast majority of the 4,000 Laotian-Americans in Hawaii, and over half
million other Laotian-Americans across the United States, on this
issue. I respectfully urge your full review of this statement, and
favorable action by your esteemed Committee. The said statement
outlines the socio-political, and humanitarian reasons for granting the
NTR to Laos. I would like to add the following additional economic and
strategic reasons for granting the NTR to Laos:
We support granting the NTR for Laos not only because it reflects
the collective sentiments of the vast majority of the Laotian-American
communities in Hawaii and across the U.S.; but, more importantly,
granting the NTR to Laos will serve the best long-term economic and
strategic interests of the United States of America in the greater
ASEAN region.
Laos is a member of ASEAN. The country is strategically located
right in the heart of the Greater Mekong Sub-Region (GMS), which is
home to over 250 million ethnically diverse populace with some of the
fastest-growing markets and most dynamic economies, including those of
China, Vietnam, Thailand, as well as the newly emerging but fast-
changing economies of Cambodia, and Burma.
Major multi-lateral funding agencies (e.g. the ADB, Worldbank),
bilateral donors, and leading private U.S. and other multi-national
companies are committing massive aid and investment resources into the
GMS. They view the GMS as one large, and increasingly integrated
market, and highly promising new investment ``frontiers,'' of which
Laos is an inseparable part.
Major multi-modal infrastructural networks (new trans-national road
networks, railroads, civil aviation and telecommunication systems) are
being planned and developed at rapid pace for this GMS region, most of
them connecting to and/or traversing various parts of Laos (which
shares common boarders with all other five GMS nations).
Laos--being richly endowed with diverse forestry/mineral resources,
and vast exportable hydro-power potential--is poised to be one of the
key ``hubs'' for cross-boarder trade, and economic exchanges, and
lucrative market links among the six GMS nations. The U.S. is currently
among the leading economic ``stakeholders'' in the GMS. Continued
refusal to grant NTR to Laos is detrimental to the current and long-
term U.S. national interest in this dynamic and fast-growing region.
The significance of Laos to the U.S. regional economic and security
interests must be viewed in this broader ASEAN and GMS context. It is
in the light of these broader U.S.-ASEAN regional economic and security
interests that I urge your esteemed Committee to recommend the granting
of the much overdue US-NTR to Laos.
Sincerely yours,
Puongpun Sananikone
President and CEO, PacMar Inc..
(address: 3615 Harding Avenue, Suites 408-409, Honolulu, HI 96816.
Tel: 808-7328731)
Attachment:
______
Statement of Support From Laotian-Americans in Hawaii
For
The Bush Administration's Trade Initiative
To extend Normal Trade Relations to Laos
We, Laotian-Americans in Hawaii, believe that:
Widespread and rapidly growing unemployment among youth in Laos has
driven tens of thousands of them to flee to Thailand and other
neighboring countries where they fall prey to exploitative and inhumane
treatment by their employers and criminals; while the land-locked
Laotian economy continues to weaken due to decline in foreign
investment and its weak capability to compete with its neighbors in the
export markets. The situation is further aggravated by the continued
denial of US NTR to Laos while such privilege is enjoyed by its
stronger immediate neighbors, including Vietnam and Cambodia.
US NTR for Laos is not a panacea for its social economic problems,
but it will put Laos on a level playing field with its neighboring
countries on which to compete for a share of the U.S. markets. This in
turn will stimulate domestic and foreign investment in Laos and give
the country a fair chance to provide decent jobs for its youth and
thereby help reverse the current ill treatment and suffering they have
had to endure, both in Laos and in neighboring countries.
We realize that Laotian communities across the U.S. are not
unanimous in their views about the current Laotian Government and its
policies, and that the majority of Laotian Americans still wish to see
more political reforms and changes. But we believe that a stronger
Laotian economy will improve living conditions of the Laotian people
who, in turn, will then become real stakeholders and, eventually
catalysts for change. Experience in Asia has amply demonstrated that
the democratization process has been economically driven.
While understanding and respecting the views of those opposing the
granting of US NTR for Laos, we ask that they also understand and
respect our views and positions on this important matter. As American
citizens, we have the obligation to respect each other's rights and
freedom to express our views in accordance with our belief and
conscience.
The majority of Laotian Americans have reconnected with their
homeland. Most of them have returned to Laos for visits and have
relatives who are still there and wish to see that they be given a fair
chance for a better living. Most Laotian Americans believe that
promoting economic development is the best way to promote peaceful and
sustainable change in Laos.
We wholeheartedly applaud and share the position taken by the Bush
Administration on the issue of US NTR for Laos. Ambassador Hartwick is
trying to encourage discussion and favorable consideration of this
initiative.
Laotian Americans and friends of the Laotians who share our views
should exercise their right of freedom of speech by voicing their views
to their respective Congressional representatives, especially members
of the House Ways and Means Committee.
The opposition to the US NTR to date seeks to isolate and
impoverish Laos for their own ambiguous political agenda. They have
organized and financed aggressive lobby efforts to prevent hearings on
this matter. Some of them continue to believe that poverty will force
change in Laos. Recent history in Asia shows otherwise. People in
isolated and poor North Korea have no means to ask for change, they
starve in silence; while in relatively rich South Korea and other parts
of Asia (Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, Philippines etc.) growing
affluence of the peoples have created economically strong and well
educated middle class who in turn have proven to be the real incubators
and guardians of the growing democratization process.
A constructive engagement approach is a better alternative for the
U.S. to promote change in Laos; and that promoting change through
peaceful socio-economic development is far more effective and humane
than deliberate impoverishment of our fellow Laotians in Laos. The
granting of NTR to Laos will open up U.S. market to tens of thousands
of Laotian entrepreneurs and workers. This will ultimately lead to
greater economic empowerment of Laotians, making them stakeholders in
their own society and, thereby, creating genuine impetus towards
democratization and the rule of law.
For more information and assistance, please contact: The US-Lao NTR
Coalition; 120 Broadway, Suite 4; Richmond, CA 94804; (510) 235-5005,
(510) 235-5065; Website: Laotianlink.com; Email: Laotianlink@USA.com
Hawaii Contact: Email: puongpun@pacmarinc.com; telephone: 808-735-
2602, 732-8731; fax: 808-734-2315; Mail: 3615 Harding Avenue, Suites
408-409, Honolulu, HI 96816
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Vientiane, Lao PDR
April 21, 2003
I have been working professionally in agricultural and rural
development and living in the Lao PDR for over 13 years now. As a
fluent speaker of the Lao language and having worked in 13 of the
nation's 17 provinces, I feel that I have some knowledge concerning the
country and its current situation.
I am quite concerned about the debates within the US about NTR for
the Lao PDR. I feel that information given to the Congress in the past
has sometimes been skewed by the narrow interests presented by a small
group of Lao-Americans, especially a minority group of ethnically
Hmong. Thus, this statement is to present another side, which I feel is
more realistic, even for the ethnically Hmong living in the Lao PDR.
As you know, the Lao PDR has been progressively more integrated
into markets since the establishment of the New Economic Mechanism
(NEM) in 1986. As with many changes here this NEM really never started
to have an impact until about 1990. While market institutions and
mechanisms are still in their fledgling stages they are beginning to
work with the assistance of various donors. So the country is not only
no longer considered as a non-market economy as when the Trade Act was
passed in January 1975, but it's well on it's way into entering into
the community of nations as a partner. It joined Association of South
East Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 1997 and is working on meeting the ASEAN
Free Trade Agreement (AFTA) requirements by 2008. This should be a
great boost to the nation's economic development.
As a less developed country in still in its early stages of
development, the nascent markets for agriculture, forestry and small-
and medium scale industry are important dimension of the economic
development of the country. However, it is also important and urgent
that Laos also have trade good trade relations with larger countries
such as the US and the EU countries. Of course, it helps tremendously
to have access to markets at favorable tariffs.
The country has a number of products already which could benefit
from NTR with the US. There is a burgeoning garment industry;
considerable non-timber forest products (NTFPs) for the health foods
and products niche markets; timber products, e.g., furniture, sawn
wood, etc.; and coffee. There is yet an unreached potential for
numerous agricultural products, such as, fruits and vegetables, various
meat products, domesticated NTFPs, e.g., cardamon, eaglewood oil, etc.
The Lao have tremendous skills in intricate silk and cotton weaving,
which could be readily transferred to various types of complicated
assembly work in the electronics and communications industries.
Of course, there is still much to be accomplished in the
commercialization of agriculture and in the appropriate
industrialization of the country. But a necessary condition for
economic development will be the opening of markets for its products.
NTR with the US should provide a substantial boost to the nation's
growth and development. Both the Government of the Lao PDR (GOL) and
the general population are ready for such an improvement in US-Lao
relations.
Actually the GOL's relationship with the Hmong community has
steadily improved in the past decade. This can be attested by the
recent visit of Dr. Vang Dao of the University of Minnesota, a
prominent Hmong leader within the US. I have personally worked with
many fine Hmong people in villages and in the GOL, and there is very
little tension between them and the Government for which there is some
misinformation in the US by only a few of the more vocal members of the
Hmong community.
Charles Alton, Ph. D.
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore
Singapore 228208
April 16, 2003
The Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman
Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
US House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Chairman Crane:
The American Chamber of Commerce of Singapore (AmCham) and its 1400
members actively expand US business throughout Asia and the Pacific,
and therefore wish to support your and the Administration's initiative
to normalise US trade relations with Laos. The submission of the 1997
US-Laos Bilateral Trade Agreement to the 108<SUP>th</SUP> Congress we
hope will result in the final ratification of this BTA, the extension
of Normal Trade Relations (NTR) status to Laos, and thus the opening of
new windows of opportunity for the surge in trade and investment that
has benefited all parties after the passage of such BTAs with Cambodia
and with Vietnam.
Constructive engagement is a US policy that has proven to deliver
positive results with Laos' neighbours in Indochina. Laos is unique in
that region to have enjoyed continuous diplomatic relations with the
US. It is also unique among the six countries of the Greater Mekong
Subregion and all lesser developed countries world-wide to remain
without NTR status. The Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative, announced at
APEC in 2002, will engage and assist countries such as Laos to make the
reforms necessary for WTO accession in the long term. In the short
term, however, the extension of NTR status now would enable the US
business community to play a positive role by constructively engaging
in trade and investment in Laos to facilitate its economy opening to
the mutual benefits of US trade and services and business norms.
The granting of NTR status would create positive change for Laos on
domestic, bilateral, regional and global levels. For the six million
people of Laos who are among the most impoverished in the world, the
opportunity to access the world's largest market at a tariff rate on
par with their neighbours' level of access to the US (rather than the
current 45.3% as found by Ed Gresser of the Progressive Policy
Institute) such as the average 3% tariff on Vietnamese goods following
the ratification of their BTA with the US, is essential. By allowing
Laotian exports to be more competitive, this should encourage Laotians
to diversify their agricultural base such as to produce more silk,
increase their sales of handicrafts, textiles and hydroelectricity, and
expand their manufacturing sector.
On a bilateral level, the US business community in the Asia Pacific
region will be at the forefront of exploring business opportunities in
Laos as soon as one of the costs of doing business in Laos is removed
by implementing the BTA and by granting NTR status. With the prospect
of change, our members have renewed interest in pursuing business in
Laos and in the GMS, and therefore have recently established an Amcham
Sub Committee on the GMS.
On a regional level, NTR status will help Laos be a more productive
member of the Greater Mekong Subregion and of ASEAN which it joined in
1997. American companies can strengthen regional economic integration
in the GMS--a strategy of the ADB and the World Bank of which the US is
a member--by more fully engaging in the multilateral donor funded
projects that are knitting together the region's infrastructure. This
utilisation of US technology and know-how will benefit Laos and will
increase sales of American goods and services. On a global level, the
commercialisation of the Laotian economy and increase of business in
Laos will foster the growth of the private sector and policy reforms
across all sectors of the economy which will enable Laos to meet its
goal of joining the WTO and profiting from the global economy.
We commend the work of you and your Committee on this issue, and
hope that it is the final step to create the foundation for the
normalisation of US-Laos bilateral relations. We look forward to
working with you in this and in fostering the long term growth of US-
Laos economic relations.
Sincerely yours,
Kristin E. Paulson
Chair
American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand
Bangkok, Thailand, 10330
April 10, 2003
The Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Chairman Crane:
On behalf of the American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand (AMCHAM)
and its 550 member companies doing business in Thailand, we would like
to express our support for the extension of Normal Trade Relations to
Laos. AMCHAM supports free trade and the benefits it provides to our
trading partners, particularly developing nations.
We support the slow but significant steps that the Lao Government
has been undertaking since 1986 in introducing economic reforms in
Laos. Laos has joined the Association of Southeast Asian Nations
(1997), and is in the early stages of negotiations to become a member
of the WTO. We agree with the Committee Advisory's March 5, 2003
statement soliciting comments that ratification of the agreement ``will
represent an important step toward economic reform and openness, which
are key U.S. priorities in Laos.''
The United States and the Lao People's Democratic Republic
concluded a bilateral trade agreement in 1997 which calls for a
reciprocal extension of NTR, although that agreement has not yet
entered into force. This agreement will obligate Laos to open its
markets to U.S. goods and services and to protect U.S. intellectual
property rights. We support granting permanent NTR status to Laos and
to enact the 1997 bilateral trade agreement by Congress enacting
legislation amending the HTS to strike Laos permanently from General
Note 3(b). We understand that on February 24, 2003, Secretary of State
Colin Powell and United States Trade Representative Robert Zoellick
sent a joint letter to Congress expressing the Administration's support
for extending NTR status to Laos and for bringing into force the 1997
agreement.
Granting NTR to Laos would also be a step forward in achieving the
goals set out by President George Bush during the October 2002 APEC
meeting in Los Cabos, Mexico where he announced the Enterprise for
ASEAN Initiative (EAI). President Bush also pledged to work with
countries like Laos in their quest to meet the requirements for WTO
accession.
As American companies doing business in Thailand and in the
IndoChina region, the security and politically stability of the region
is often reflected in the economic conditions. With Laos being one of
the poorest countries in the world, the ability to participate in
normal trade relations with the U.S. will hopefully provide economic
benefit to its people. For American companies in Thailand and abroad
this would provide an opportunity to pursue successful trade and
investment.
We commend you and the Committee for considering taking this
important step to normalize economic relations between the United
States and Laos. We look forward to working with you to achieve this.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely yours,
Ellen Devlin
AMCHAM President
Country Manager
Nike, Inc.
cc
The Hon. Robert Zoellick, Office of the US Trade Representative
The Hon. Douglas Hartwick, US Embassy--Vientianne
<F-dash>
American Friends Service Committee
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102
April 21, 2003
The Honorable Philip M. Crane, Chairman
Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
U.S. House of Representatives/Washington, DC 20515
Dear Chairman Crane:
I am writing to voice my strong support for the extension of Normal
Trade Relations (NTR) to Laos. It is rather astounding that Laos, a
country which is poor and extremely weak militarily should be one of
only seven countries in the world without normal trade relations with
the US.
I have visited Laos on behalf of the American Friends Service
Committee (AFSC) once or twice a year, almost every year since 1973.
The AFSC and the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) were the only two
international non governmental organizations that were able to stay in
Laos during the 1975 transition to the Lao People's Democratic Republic
(Lao PDR) and both remain active in Laos today. We watched the massive
exodus of Laotians to Thailand, especially from 1976 to 1978, as a
result of harsh and inept policies of the new government. The status of
the AFSC in Laos was initially uncertain but it improved gradually over
the years. The government preferred to test out a working relationship
with the AFSC in practice for some years before confirming it in
writing in memoranda of understanding.
AFSC staff have traveled over much of the country. Currently they
carry out rural development projects in four provinces, in close
collaboration with local officials and major participation by the
villager-beneficiaries. AFSC staff are well aware of the many problems
of Lao society. They are equally aware that the only course to
improvement is through the practical experience of Lao and external aid
personnel working together cooperatively as partners. Taking an
accusatory or critical approach to local failings has been demonstrably
counterproductive.
Many of the Lao who fled the country in the 1970s and now live in
the US are locked into a bitter memory of their harsh experiences of
that time. Some are pushing actively for formal recognition and
approval of their actions thirty years ago on behalf of the United
States. Until that happens they may fear that normal relations may
cause people to forget their sacrifice, which was very real. The voices
of the old leaders of Lao-Americans in opposition to better US-Lao
relations are often very loud in Congress but their arguments are
counter productive to the goal of a better life for people in Laos that
they claim to be seeking.
Many Lao-Americans now make regular trips back to Laos. A number of
them report that they would seriously like to invest in their former
homeland on behalf of themselves, their relatives still in Laos and a
more promising future for everyone. The passage of NTR would be a
critical element in making such a future possible.
The AFSC experience, which encompasses the entire history of the
Lao PDR, is very clear. Productive cooperation between Americans and
Laotians has advanced US-Lao relations and improved daily living
conditions for people in Laos. The exchange of mutual recriminations
has made life for people in Laos only worse. The lack of NTR may appeal
to the anger of those looking back to the past, but it will only retard
real improvement in the future quality of life of people in Laos.
It is long past time that the anachronism of the lack of normal
trade relations with Laos be removed. On behalf of the welfare of
people in Laos it is urgent that NTR be extended to Laos as soon as
possible.
Sincerely yours,
David Elder
Regional Director for Asia
<F-dash>
Armenian Assembly of America
Washington, D.C. 20001
April 21, 2003
The Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman,
Subcommittee on Trade of the Committee on Ways and Means
1104 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Chairman Crane:
The Armenian Assembly of America strongly supports the extension of
permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) treatment to products of
Armenia.
Armenia's strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia,
democratic stability, entrepreneurial spirit and western value system
make Armenia an increasingly important partner for the United States in
the Caucasus region. Armenia is poised to play a pivotal role as a
commercial hub and has established a positive legal, regulatory and tax
climate for foreign investment, reflecting the country's commitment to
open and free trade.
Since its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Armenia has
vigorously pursued free-market reforms within a democratic framework.
The overwhelming majority of state enterprises have been privatized or
are in the privatization process. To further promote and facilitate
direct foreign investment, Armenia's Ministry of Trade and Industry
created the Investment and Export Policy Directorate. In addition, the
Armenian government established the Armenian Development Agency (ADA)
to provide ``one stop shopping'' services for potential investors.
As a result, a number of multinational corporations have undertaken
projects in Armenia, including: Coca-Cola, Phillip Morris, Huntsman
Armenia Concrete Corporation, Federal Express, Northwest Airlines/KLM,
International Legal Consulting and Sexess Petroleum Corporation, to
name a few. Last year, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia, John Ordway, took
note of Armenia's economic reforms and financial incentives, stating
that ``One of the best indices of economic development of the
Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) member-countries belongs to
Armenia.''
Armenia views the United States as a strategic partner and friend.
It has demonstrated a strong desire to build a friendly and cooperative
relationship with the United States, and has concluded many bilateral
treaties and agreements with our nation.
As you are aware, Armenia is still subject to the Jackson-Vanik
provisions in Title IV of the Trade Act of 1974, which govern the
extension of normal trade relations (NTR) to non-market economy nations
ineligible for such status as of the enactment of the Trade Act.
Armenia was first granted NTR in 1992 under a waiver from the freedom
of emigration requirements of the statute. The President has
consistently found Armenia to be in full compliance, as President Bush
recently certified to Congress on January 29, 2003.
Furthermore, on February 5, 2003, Armenia was acceded to the WTO.
The Director-General of the WTO, Dr. Supachai Panitchpakdi said about
Armenia's accession, ``Since achieving independence, Armenia embarked
on a comprehensive process of liberalization and market reform in which
membership of the WTO is a decisive milestone.''
Armenia's recent accession to the WTO further supports its noted
progress. However, neither Armenia nor the United States will be able
to avail itself of full WTO benefits until permanent normal trading
relations are granted. Representative Joseph Knollenberg has introduced
H.R. 528, which would extend PNTR with Armenia. This important
bipartisan measure will help strengthen U.S.-Armenia relations and
allow for greater trade benefits between the United States and Armenia.
Increased U.S.-Armenia trade and investment not only advances U.S.
foreign policy by further strengthening Armenia's free-market economic
development and integration into the world economy, but also helps to
offset the damaging impact of Turkey's and Azerbaijan's blockades,
estimated by the World Bank at up to $720 million a year. These
blockades have cut off the transport of food, fuel, medicine and all
other commodities via traditional transport to and from the states of
the Former Soviet Union. They also precipitated a humanitarian crisis
requiring the United States to send emergency assistance to Armenia. By
obstructing the delivery of gas, the blockades created unbearable
conditions during winters when the Armenian population was forced to
live without heat, Armenian children went without schooling, and
hospitals were unable to care for the sick. In addition, a
disproportionate share of U.S. assistance was required for humanitarian
needs as opposed to short-and medium-term economic development
projects. According to the World Bank, lifting the blockades could
reduce Armenia's transportation costs by 30 to 50 percent, increase the
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by over 30 percent and double exports.
In spite of the dual blockades, Armenia's economic reform measures
are progressing. Armenia earned a high rating in the Wall Street
Journal and Heritage Foundation's ``2003 Index of Economic Freedom.''
The index, which measured how 161 countries scored on a list 50
independent variables divided into ten broad economic factors,
including: trade and monetary policy, government intervention in the
economy, banking and property rights, rated Armenia 44<SUP>th</SUP>.
According to the study, Armenia remains the most economically free
nation in the region, including all nations in the CIS.
In addition, Armenia's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) increased 12.9
percent last year--the highest among the former Soviet republics. The
growth remains strong this year, as Armenia's GDP reached 7.5 percent
on the first two months of this year. The International Monetary Fund
representative in Yerevan, James McHugh, qualifies Armenia's
macroeconomic situation as ``very favorable.'' Last year, Armenia's
exports increased by over 48 percent with Belgium, Israel, Russia, the
United Kingdom and the United States registering as the top trading
partners. In 2002, total U.S.-Armenia bilateral trade amounted to more
than $134 million.
The United States can and should continue to heighten its
activities in promoting and facilitating U.S. direct foreign
investment, trade and economic development in Armenia. Extending
permanent normal trade relations to Armenia will not only enhance trade
and investment between the United States and Armenia, but will also
strengthen a strong relationship between our two nations.
For these reasons, the Armenian Assembly strongly supports the
extension of PNTR treatment to the products of Armenia. We offer these
comments solely on behalf of the Armenian Assembly of America and no
other client, person, or organization.
Sincerely,
Hirair Hovnanian
Chairman, Board of Trustees
Peter Vosbikian
Chairman, Board of Directors
<F-dash>
Armenian National Committee of America
Glendale, California 91206
March 18, 2003
The Honorable Phil Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of the
Committee on Ways and Means
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Rep. Crane,
On behalf of our nation's one and a half million citizens of
Armenian heritage, the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA)
appreciates this opportunity to share with the members of the Trade
Subcommittee of the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee our support for
granting Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) status to Armenia. Our
organization and community have expressed support for legislation on
this matter, H.R. 528, introduced by Congressmen Joseph Knollenberg and
Frank Pallone and cosponsored by over thirty of their U.S. House
colleagues.
As members of this esteemed panel are aware, Armenia formally
joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) this February. The specific
circumstances of Armenia's accession were outlined in the ``2003 Trade
Policy Agenda and 2002 Annual Report of the President of the United
States on the Trade Agreements Program,'' prepared by the Office of the
U.S. Trade Representative and submitted to the Congress pursuant to
Section 163 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2213). In
this report, the USTR explained that:
Armenia, the fourth of the Republics of the former Soviet Union and
the twelfth transforming economy to complete accession negotiations
under Article XII of the WTO Agreement, was also able to complete
legislative work in 2002. At the time its accession package was
approved by the General Council in December 2002, Armenia affirmed that
it would not take any direct or indirect action that would impede or
slow down the accession process of Azerbaijan to the WTO, nor block the
decision-making process concerning the accession of Azerbaijan to the
WTO. Prior to General Council approval of the accession package, the
United States invoked the non-application provisions of the WTO
Agreement contained in Article XIII with respect to Armenia. This was
necessary because the United States must retain the right to withdraw
``normal trade relations'' (NTR) (called ``most-favored-nation''
treatment in the WTO) for WTO Members that receive NTR with the United
States subject to the provisions of the ``Jackson-Vanik'' clause and
the other requirements of Title IV of the Trade Act of 1974. In such
cases, the United States and the other country do not have ``WTO
relations'' which, among other things, prevents the United States from
bringing a WTO dispute based on a violation by the other country of the
WTO or the commitments in its accession package. This brings to six the
number of times since the establishment of the WTO in 1995 that the
United States as invoked non-application.
As noted in this report, in its accession package, Armenia agreed
to comply with all WTO rules and agreements and made tariff concessions
on a most-favored nation (MFN) basis. Armenia's accession represents
its commitment to market-oriented economic reform, trade
liberalization, and foreign investment. However, as a former member of
the Soviet Union, Armenia is subject to the Jackson-Vanik provisions of
the 1974 Trade Act and receives MFN treatment from the United States on
a conditional basis. As a result, the U.S. invoked its right of non-
application at the WTO prior to Armenia's accession, with the result
that the WTO agreements do not apply between the U.S. and Armenia until
the U.S. grants Armenia PNTR and revokes non-application. Because of
this, American businesses cannot take advantage of any of Armenia's WTO
concessions or initiate a WTO dispute on any potential violation by
Armenia of the WTO rules or its accession commitments.
In order for Armenia's economic growth to continue and for its
benefits to reach more people, Armenia needs to increase investment and
trade. Armenia is dedicated to expanding its economic relationship with
the United States, but, without PNTR, Armenia loses its ability to
attract viable export markets in and investment from the United States.
At the same time, without PNTR, American entrepreneurs who see Armenia
as an emerging economy with potential for investment and trade hesitate
to establish ventures that cannot be protected by WTO rules or to
import Armenian goods at higher, non-MFN tariff rates.
We believe that it is important that the United States establish
PNTR and formalize their WTO relationship with Armenia, a strong friend
and ally of the American people. Despite long-standing economic
blockades by its neighbors, Armenia has managed to sustain strong
levels of economic growth and a commitment to open markets and free
trade. Examples of this include the United States--Armenia Agreement on
Bilateral Trade Relations in 1992 and Bilateral Investment Treaty in
1996. Last year bilateral trade between the United States and Armenia
amounted to more than $134,200,000. It is our hope in the coming months
to build upon the progress we have already made by encouraging even
greater economic cooperation through the negotiation of a Trade and
Investment Framework Agreement, a Bilateral Tax Treaty, and a Social
Security Agreement, among others.
In closing, we want to share with you the importance we attach to
the role the United States has played as the driving force and champion
of the rules-based trading system of the WTO. It is our hope that the
United States will continue in this proud tradition by extending PNTR
to Armenia, and, accordingly, we respectfully encourage the Congress to
approve PNTR for Armenia at the earliest opportunity.
Thank you for your kind consideration of our concerns.
Sincerely,
Aram S. Hamparian
Executive Director
<F-dash>
Woodbridge, Virginia 22193
March 20, 2003
To: LHonorable Charles Grassley, Chairman, Committee on Finance, United
States Senate.
Honorable William M. Thomas, Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means,
House of Representatives.
E-mail: hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
Fax: (202) 225-2610
Date: March 20, 2003
Honorable:
As American citizen, I am asking for your support for granting
normal trade relations status (NTR) to the Lao People's Democratic
Republic.
This small, landlocked country of Laos was never at war with the
United States, but was heavily bombed because it was next to Vietnam.
Diplomatic relations between the United States and Laos were never
severed, unlike other nations in the region. Truly, Laos is a bit
player in this South East Asian economic show, but why make it even
more difficult for them to develop market economy.
I'm not the type of person who believes that we owe Laos something.
Granting of the NTR costs us nothing. This isn't a monetary gift; it's
a chance for them to attract US business and investment. NTR will help
improving standard of living for one of the poorest countries in the
world.
I therefore, support the joint proposal of Honorable Colin Powell,
Secretary of State and Honorable Robert Zoellick of the USTR, for
granting NTR to Laos.
It is my sincere hope that you will support the said proposal and
help granting NTR to Laos.
Sincerely,
Mark Armstrong
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Association Boun enfants des rizieres
13012 Marseille, France
To: LHonourable Philip M. Crane, Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of the
Committee on Ways and Means, House of representatives
Honourable Philip M. Crane,
The members of our association formed by lao expatriats from
France, ``Boun enfant des rizieres'', a humatarian non governmental
organisation, we would like to support the approval of of the bilateral
agreement between the Lao's people democratic republic and the United
states of America on trade relations with NTR.
Mme Boun Siyavong
presidente
<F-dash>
Charlotte, Vermont 05445
Dear Congressman Crane,
I am writing to support normal trade relations (NTR) with the Lao
Democratic People's Republic, Laos.
I am just completing a two-week stay in northern and central Laos,
a country to which I was attracted by it rich cultures and its
remoteness. But there is not romance in stark poverty. We spent the
night in a Khmu village, a half day's walk from the nearest town. A few
solar lights and a gas-powered rice thresher are its only concessions
to the modern world. A health care worker visits monthly. Villages grow
vegetables and rice and raise cows, pigs, and chicken. The rise at dawn
to fetch water, bathe and do laundry in the river--where they also
fish. There is no sanitation of any kind in the village of 135. In
Laos, one in five children dies before age five.
Land-locked and surrounded by fast-growing economies in China,
Vietnam, Thailand, and even the weaker Cambodia and Myanmar--all of
which enjoy NTR, Laos has virtually no serious economy. With no
revenue, the government cannot provide even the most basic services:
education, healthcare, roads, electricity, safe drinking water.
The Lao government is cooperating with the United States on its
POW/MIA accounting even as tons of unexploded ordinanace dropped by
American bombers continue to injure scores of Lao each year. Laos is
one of only two countries in the world--joined only by Cuba and North
Korea, without NTR, a situation impossible to justify. In February,
2003, Us Trade Representative Robert Zoellick and Secretary of State
Colin Powell summarized, ``The Administration believes that extending
NTR to Laos will create a more cooperative atmosphere and opportunities
that will help open the society and leverage our efforts to improve
human rights, religious freedom and rule of law in Laos.
I strongly encourage you to approve NTR for Laos.
Sincerely yours,
Elizabeth Bassett
<F-dash>
Washington, D.C. 20009
The Honorable Philip Roth, Chair of Sub-Committee on Trade
The House Committee on Ways and Means
Dear Chairman Roth:
It is important for the United States and Laos to enjoy normal
trade relations. It is the wish of the Administration and would fulfill
the 1997 bi-lateral trade agreement between our two nations.
My family and I have enjoyed traveling in Laos. We know many
people, including Lao-American friends, who wish the U.S. to have a
stronger relationship with Laos. It is a beautiful country with
gracious people. Normal trade relations would allow opportunities for
business and greater cultural exchange with Laos.
Diplomatic ties have never been broken between the United States
and Laos. Laos is a member of ASEAN. Lack of normal trade relations now
seems an oversight that must be remedied.
Thank you for your attention to our interest in NTR status for
Laos.
Yours sincerely,
Sally Benson
<F-dash>
Ti M. Beri
Falls Church, Virginia 22043
April 6, 2003
Congressman Philip M. Crane
Re: Extension of Normal Trading Relations Status to Laos
Dear Congressman Crane:
I write to you to express my support for the extension of Normal
Trading Relations (``NTR'') with the Lao People's Democratic Republic
(``Laos''). I was dismayed to learn recently that Laos remains one of
only three countries subject to column 2 (non-NTR) tariff rates in the
Harmonized Tariff Schedule. Laos suffered heavily during the difficult
years of the Vietnam War, having earned the dubious distinction of
being one of the most heavily bombed nations in the world. The United
States government was not blameless for the difficulties that Laos
faced both during that conflict and following American withdrawal from
the region.
While Laos remains one of the world's poorest countries, the
Laotian government has taken halting steps to both repair its image and
integrate the country into the world's trading networks. In 1997 Laos
joined the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (``ASEAN'') and has
already begun negotiations to join the World Trade Organization
(``WTO''). Extending NTR status to Laos would encourage these efforts
by providing an olive branch in support of the government's reform
efforts, providing incentives to further shift the country from the
command economy it has known in the past. In addition this modest
extension on the part of the United States would fulfill the promise of
the 1997 bilateral trading agreement negotiated between the United
States and Laos.
Extending NTR status would be in the interests of both the United
States and Laos. By opening much needed trade between the two
countries, the United States would be closing the book on a difficult
chapter in American history, in particular the tumultuous period of the
1960s-1970s in which Laos became a battleground for forces larger than
itself. Increased trade would stimulate the Laotian economy that has
already seen tremendous growth since the country joined ASEAN. Laos
would quickly become a more attractive place for U.S. investment, a
development that could help tap much of the nation's potential
resources. In addition, increased trade would provide legitimate
sources of income to a population that all too often must turn to the
illicit trade in both human trafficking and narcotics to make a living.
In the past some commentators have argued that the extension of NTR
status would exacerbate the human rights situation in Laos. In reality,
the extension of NTR status, coupled with American support for Laos's
further integration into multilateral organizations such as the WTO and
ASEAN will provide incentives to the Laotian government to improve its
human rights record as it faces greater scrutiny under the lens of its
trading partners. In addition, lest this government forget, the United
States is hardly blameless for the treatment received by the Hmong
following American withdrawal from Southeast Asia in the late 1970s
(one of the largest outstanding human rights issues facing Laos). By
extending NTR status, the United States will be providing a much needed
signal that the U.S. is willing to work with the government of Laos to
address concerns and build a bridge underpinned with mutual respect and
understanding. By promoting trade between the two nations, increased
cultural exchange will inevitably take place. It is this exchange that
will help the Hmong-American community reconnect and advocate directly
with the Laotian government. In addition, as one of the hundreds of
thousands of Laotian-Americans living in the United States, I know
personally that there exists a large desire among the Laotian-American
community to see increased ties between the U.S. and Laos in order to
promote and enhance significant reform within Laos. I am hopeful that
increased economic ties will bring increased understanding that will
help address human rights issues, poverty, and the attendant social
problems that stem from Laos's economic situation.
Should this Congress see fit to extend NTR status, it will see a
number of individuals, particularly among the Laotian-American
community willing to go about the work of ensuring that the new
economic ties benefit both countries. Products of Laos would soon find
their place alongside products of Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore on
American store shelves. In addition, the large infrastructure needs of
Laos would become attractive investments for American enterprise that
could benefit from the ability to export products to Laos and re-export
products manufactured in Laos to the U.S.
For these reasons, I urge this Congress to approve NTR status for
Laos, an endeavor that is long overdue. Both nations will benefit by
increasing their economic ties, and extending American trading
relations into the Southeast Asian region.
Respectfully submitted,
Ti M. Beri
<F-dash>
Long Island City, New York 11109
I am writing to voice my support for Normal Trade Relations (NTR)
with Laos, one of the world's least developed countries. I ask that the
legislature pass the necessary legislation to extend NTR to Laos and
bring into force the bilateral trade agreements concluded in 1997.
NTR will benefit both the US and Laos. Increased trade between our
two countries will lead to greater economic opportunities and swifter
economic development in Laos, directly improving people's lives and
living standards and also reinforcing the alternative economic
development opportunities in anti-narcotics efforts. Greater cultural
and human cooperation will encourage more openness, which I believe
will accelerate the positive changes achieved over the past few years.
Laos is a member of ASEAN, an organization with which the US is
working to strengthen regional stability as part of the ASEAN
Initiative. As such, Laos should have the benefit of NTR as does its
neighbors and fellow ASEAN members. And normalized trade relations with
the US will be a big first step to further integrate Laos into the
world trade system.
Thank you.
Marvin Berk
<F-dash>
Belleville, Michigan 48111
April 8, 2003
To: LHonorable Charles Grassley, Chairman, Committee on Finance, United
States Senate.
Honorable William M. Thomas, Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means.
Honorable Philip M. Crane, Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of Ways and
Means Committee
E-mail: hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
Fax: (202) 225-2610
Honorable,
As an American Citizen, I wholeheartedly support the joint proposal
of Honorable Colin L. Powell, Secretary of State and Honorable Robert
B. Zoellick, US Trade Representative, for granting the Permanent Normal
Trade Relations to the Lao People's Democratic Republic.
The Lao PDR is the only country in the area that hasn't got such
facility yet although its Politico-Social situations are far better
than others.
I should appreciate if you could take the said proposal and my
noble wish in consideration and render to Laos the fairness and real
touch of the US generosity.
Once again I thank you for your kind cooperation
Sincerely yours,
Gary Lee Bledowski
<F-dash>
Fresno, California 93727
3April 16, 2003
The Honorable Chairman Williams Thomas
And Congressional members of the Ways and Means Committee
2208 Rayburn HOB
Washington, D.C. 20515-0522
Re: Granting of Normalize Trade Relations to Laos
Dear Chairman Thomas,
My name is Sam Thowsao Bliatout, a private US citizen who came to
this country from Laos via refugee camp of Thailand in 1976. Graduated
with Ph. D. in business administration in 1987, and currently owned a
shopping center in Fresno, California, taking initiative and serve as
chairman for economic development project on Southeast Fresno/Southeast
Asian, funded by the city of Fresno, Vice-President of API Republican
Coalition for the State of California. Also, in collaboration with the
international business team I had made frequent flying to Southeast
Asia for the last 12 years to do business consulting, specifically for
Thailand and Laos and therefore I am writing this letter to request
that NTR be granted to Laos for future sake of the poor Laotian
citizens. Please co not allow this matter be interfered by conditions
set by few small group of Laotian overseas political organizations as
will cripple millions of their own citizen back home rather than do any
good.
We realize that problems such as human rights and democracy are
existed, but not only Laos. As such, we should not take a small claim
made by few small factions into consideration and panelize Laos for
what they have been working hard to improve it. Within the Laotian's
educational background and management capacities they have tried their
best to adapt to the world by adjusting much of their rules and
regulations for economic revitalization while improving human rights
activities on the other hand. As an economic consultant in the region
for over ten years I am confident enough that human rights and
democracy will definitely follow when sufficient education and health
care are properly provided, and by granting NTR to Laos I believe will
be a major step toward achieving it.
Despite the many negative issues voiced out by some political
factions I have seen that Laos had been improving tremendously for the
last ten years such as new construction can be seen almost every corner
of the country, pave road and other communication systems are well
connected, banking and business development gradually spread throughout
the nation. With NTR in place, economic development in Laos will
undoubtedly catching up with its neighboring countries, such as
Vietnam, China and Thailand. Lastly, I believe that it is part of this
country's responsibility as the superpower nation to ensure equal
access and services offer to our friends who are trying hard toward
reaching our goals of promoting democracy and equality. I pledge that
you vote ``YES'' to NTR for Laos at the United States Congress. If I
can be of assistance to this matter, please do not hesitate to let me
know.
Sincerely,
Sam T. Bliatout, Ph.D.
<F-dash>
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55104
Granting Normal Trade Relation to Lao P.D.R. is a Moral Obligation
The Honorable
Charles B. Rangel
Committee on Ways and Means,
House of Representatives
Dear Congresman Rangel:
On April 21, 2003, the Lao-American community seeks your support
for extending normal trade relations (NTR) status to Laos. This will
bring into force the comprehensive bilateral trade agreement that the
United States concluded with Laos in 1997.
Laos has been unfairly denied NTR status in the past due to the
legacy of the Indochina War. Those who oppose NTR for Laos are mostly
former military officials who oppose anything that would strengthen the
tie between Laos and the US. They are claiming genocide and ethnic
cleansing in the country. On the contrary, according to Ambassador
Wartwick, there is no evidence to support these claim. Their accusation
is motivated by their bitterness that they can't let go due to the
legacy of the Indochina War. Most of Lao-Americans, especially the
younger generation, would rather to move on and see that the two
countries strengthen their ties.
I have traveled to Laos five times in the last five years and
visited extensively thorough out the country. Laos has suffered
tremendously because of the Indochina War. Hundreds and thousand of
men, women and children still die each year due to the unexploded
cluster bombs that the US dropped between 1964 and 1973. Lao people
have suffered enough, however, they are every humble, generous and
willing to move on. They deserve US economic involvement. The US has a
moral obligation to improve tie with Laos and provide assistance to its
development.
Unlike Vietnam and Cambodia, Laos is the only Indochina country
that has maintained unbroken ties with the US through the Indochina War
and its aftermath. Laos has been providing a tremendous support to the
US on the issues of POW search and narcotic control. Laos has also
become a great support on counter-terrorism after the September 11,
2001 incident. And yet, Laos is the only Indochina country that US has
not granted NTR. This is morally wrong. Please vote for NTR for Laos.
It is the only right thing to do.
Sonelay Boualouang
Lao-American Community
<F-dash>
Dallas, Texas 75206
April 21, 2003
To: LHonorable Philip M. Crane, Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of Ways
and Means Committee,
E-mail: hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
Fax: (202) 225-2610
Honorable Crane:
This letter is in strong support of granting normal traderelation
status (NTR) to the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Laos). After more
than twenty years in their new country, many Laotian-Americans still
have a need for goods and services that used to be part of their daily
lives back in their motherland. These goods, which include arts and
crafts, agricultural products and canned food items, are unavailable to
Laotian-Americans here in the United States. Many Laotian-American
entrepreneurs see this as a promising job and business opportunity.
Granting NTR status to Laos will allow these entrepreneurs to pursue
their ideas.
American businesses will also benefit from granting of NTR.
Currently, US have a very small business establishment in Laos,
compares to China, Thailand, and Japan. NTR will encourage and allow a
greater presence of US companies in this country. Laos has established
itself to become an important market for US goods and services when it
joined the Association of Southeast Asia Nations (ASEAN) in 1997. The
United States Government should help American companies grab a bigger
share of this market by granting NTR status.
NTR status will help strengthen good understanding between the
governments and peoples of the United States and Laos. Cooperation on
POW/MIA, narcotics control and terrorist issues indicate that Laos is
committed to building a better relationship with the United States.
Granting NTR status will demonstrate that the United States is also
committed.
I appreciate very much a joint proposal of Honorable Colin Powell,
Secretary of State and Honorable Robert Zoellick of the USTR, for
granting NTR to Laos.
I should appreciate if you could kindly support the proposal in
granting NTR to Laos.
Sincerely,
Prasith Sid Bounsouaysana
<F-dash>
Arlington, VA 22204
Congressman Philip M. Crane
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Fax: 202-225-2610
Re: Granting Laos NTR
Dear Congressman Crane:
As a concerned Lao-American, I am compelled to help my country
build a competitive economy and I believe granting Laos normalized
trade relations (NTR) is one of them. Laos had suffered tremendously
and it will get worse without the immediate lending hands of the U.S.
Currently, almost half of the population live under poverty while the
rest of the world is developing at a great rate. We cannot blindly turn
our backs against them and let them die because I truly believe we can
save them, however big or small. The US is the most compassionate and
generous nation on this earth and by giving Laos a chance, it will be
able to stand up on its own one day. Without NTR, Laos will not only
collapse economically, but socially and politically as well.
If you don't believe me, please go to Laos and see the reality of
life with your own eyes. You'll see how sick and starving the people
have become. They desperately need to be rescue and feed. By granting
Laos NTR, the US will help the country and the people build better
lives. It's indispensable that this action be taken now before it's too
late.
Thank you immensely for your attention and I look forward to seeing
you granting Laos NTR in the near future.
Regards,
Anola Boutah
Personnel Analyst
<F-dash>
South Riping, Virginia 20152
April 5, 2003
To: LHonorable Charles Grassley, Chairman, Committee on Finance, United
States Senate.
Honorable William M. Thomas, Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means.
Honorable Philip M. Crane, Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of Ways
and Means Committee,
E-mail: hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
Fax: (202) 225-2610
Honorable:
This letter is in strong support of granting normal trade relation
status (NTR) to the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Laos).
After more than twenty years in their new country, many Laotian-
Americans still have a need for goods and services that used to be part
of their daily lives back in their motherland. These goods, which
include arts and crafts, agricultural products and canned food items,
are unavailable to Laotian-Americans here in the United States. Many
Laotian-American entrepreneurs see this as a promising job and business
opportunity. Granting NTR status to Laos will allow these entrepreneurs
to pursue their ideas.
American businesses will also benefit from granting of NTR.
Currently, US have a very small business establishment in Laos,
compares to China, Thailand, and Japan. NTR will encourage and allow a
greater presence of US companies in this country. Laos has established
itself to become an important market for US goods and services when it
joined the Association of Southeast Asia Nations (ASEAN) in 1997. The
United States Government should help American companies grab a bigger
share of this market by granting NTR status.
NTR status will help strengthen good understanding between the
governments and peoples of the United States and Laos. Cooperation on
POW/MIA, narcotics control and terrorist issues indicate that Laos is
committed to building a better relationship with the United States.
Granting NTR status will demonstrate that the United States is also
committed.
I appreciate very much a joint proposal of Honorable Colin Powell,
Secretary of State and Honorable Robert Zoellick of the USTR, for
granting NTR to Laos.
I should appreciate if you could kindly support the proposal in
granting NTR to Laos.
Sincerely,
Caristan Braun
<F-dash>
California-Asia Business Council (Cal-Asia)
Alameda, California 94501
April 17, 2003
Letter in support of Normal Trade Relations with Laos:
To the Chairman
House Ways and Means Committee
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington DC
Electronically to: hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
By fax to: (202) 225-2610
Sir:
The California-Asia Business Council has steadfastly supported
commerce between California and Asian nations throughout its 32-year
history.
At this time, we ask the House of Representatives to favorably
consider granting Normal Trade Relations to the People's Democratic
Republic of Laos. We understand that US Trade Representative Zoellick
and Secretary of State Powell have written to the House Ways and Means
Committee in support of Lao NTR.
Normal trade relations with Laos will positively affect economic
development in Laos and thus benefit the people of Laos. The relative
size of the two economies means that the reduction of tariffs implicit
in NTR will hardly be felt by the U.S. However, the message NTR sends
to the world could not be more relevant. Namely, trade brings peoples
of the world together and we wish our relationships with every
legitimate nation to be one of mutual respect.
Our continuing liberalization of trade relations with Vietnam
serves to illustrate the importance of such action.
Jeremy W. Potash,
Executive Director,
California-Asia Business Council
<F-dash>
Big Lake, Minnesota 55309
April 20, 2003
To:
United States Congress
House of Representatives
Ways and Means Committee
Subject: Establishment of Normal Trade Relations with the Lao People's
Democratic Republic (LPDR)
Dear Sirs:
We are writing in support of the legislation the will acted upon
shortly concerning the establishment of Normal Trade Relations (NTR)
with the LPDR. We support this action.
As stated recently by the United States ambassador to Laos, this
country is one of only four that do not benefit by NTR status. Based on
statements by our ambassador we see no reason to continue to exclude
LPDR from trade with the United States.
The United States has many people from Laos living within its
boarders. Better trade relations would allow them to buy items from
their homeland at an affordable rate. Many of these people once
assisted our government during its conflict in Southeast Asia. For
various reasons they had to leave their homeland and it only seems fair
that they be able to have contact with their culture by having
realistic access to products from Laos.
Laos is a poor country. Yearly income for many of its people is
measured in hundreds of dollars. Establishing better trade relations
would improve the economic future of the people of Laos.
Critics of the NTR point to human rights violations by the LPDR.
While this should be a concern, it should not be a reason to deny NTR
status to the LPDR. The United States has trade relations with many
counties that have abysmal human rights records. One needs only to look
at the Middle East for these examples of abuse.
Critics want to deny NTR because the government of Laos is
communist. During the cold war we engaged in trade with many communist
governments, including our great nemesis the Soviet Union. We currently
trade with many communist countries, including China, Vietnam and
Cambodia. The cold war is over, its time to treat Laos as we would any
other country.
Good trade relations can go a long way towards improving the lives
of the people of Laos. To this end we urge you to support the
establishment of Normal Trade Relations with the LPDR.
Thank you for your consideration of our concerns.
Sincerely,
Mark and Janice Carroll
<F-dash>
Caterpillar Asia
Singapore 627968
The Honorable Phillip Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
House Ways & Means Committee
Dear Chairman Crane:
On behalf of Caterpillar Asia, I would like to urge you to move
forward to pass Normal Trade Relations (NTR) with Laos.
We are well aware that NTR with Laos has been strongly endorsed by
Secretary of State Powell and U.S. Trade Representative Zoellick. Laos
NTR is important to our company for the following reasons:
-Laos is a member of the ten country Association of Southeast Asian
Nations (ASEAN) group--ASEAN is America's third largest overseas
market; our trade with ASEAN contributes nearly 800,000 high paying
U.S. export jobs; and, American companies have tremendous equity in the
region as its top investor.
-Passing NTR for Laos is a key step to building the foundation for
moving forward with the Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative (EAI) which was
announced by President Bush on October 26, 2003 at APEC in Los Cabos,
Mexico. Engaging ASEAN through the EAI is an important step for U.S.
competitiveness in this key market. As you know, China is moving
forward with negotiations for a China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (FTA),
and Japan and Europe are also beginning to implement similar frameworks
with ASEAN.
-The Administration and U.S. Embassy in Vientiane report that Laos
is showing signs of moving forward on key areas of past concern as we
enhance engagement with the country. These areas, including religious
freedom, human rights and economic reform are highlighted in the
Administration's letter to you recommending moving forward on Laos NTR.
-This legislation will allow U.S. companies to have enhanced
protection for trademarks and investment in Laos and ASEAN.
For all these reasons, I hope that the House Subcommittee on Trade
will move forward with NTR for Laos as soon as possible. This would be
considered a positive step forward for U.S. leadership on trade in
Asia, and particularly in the ASEAN region.
Thank you for your consideration and support.
Sincerely,
Mark Schoeneman
General Manager/Director
Caterpillar Asia
<F-dash>
CFCO International
Washington, D.C. 20006
April 21, 2003
The Hon Phil Crane
Chairman
US House of Representatives
Subcommittee on Trade
Washington DC 20515
Dear Congressman Crane:
Congressional authorization of Normal Trade Relations for Laos is
doing the right thing, because it is the right thing to do!
The official US conflict in Indo-China is long over, as is the
American Secret War in Laos.
Vietnam, China, Burma and Cambodia, each have secured NTR
agreements with the United States; while for many years Laos has been
systematically used as a political football by a few US Representatives
and Senators, and right wing factions in our country.
In brief, the American legacy in Laos is shameful and indefensible.
Its recurring negative impact on some of the world's most impoverished
people is still relatively unknown, e.g. thousands of children and
adults have been killed or maimed through UXO contact in over 40% of
the landmass of Laos; Agent Orange and other killer herbicides/
pesticides have contaminated huge areas of the country; until September
11, 2001, there were systematic terrorist activities, encouraged by
Lao-American extremists, directed at destabilizing civil society and
replacing the sovereign Lao PDR government.
Your Congressional colleagues and you have a real opportunity to
help right an American geopolitical wrong, through prompt legislative
action on the amendment of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) to
strike Laos from General Note 3(B) and grant NTR status to this ASEAN
nation.
In doing so, you will be striking a blow for freedom for 5.5
million Laotians whose lives will be enriched through a strengthening
of the US-Lao bilateral relationship and promotion of a US foreign
policy of constructive engagement that builds bridges, not walls, and
encourages long term democratic, humanitarian and economic reforms.
President Bush, Secretary Powell, Ambassador Zoellick and the
Administration are on record as supporting NTR, and also World Trade
Organization membership, for Laos. It will send a powerful positive
signal to Americans, and the international community, to have decisive
Congressional action on the granting of NTR status for Lao PDR.
CFCO is the American representative for the Nam Theun 2 Electricity
Consortium that is developing the $1.1 billion NT2 hydroelectric
project in Laos. The US partner on this international private public
partnership project is MWH Global Inc., whose Chicago subsidiary is
Harza Engineering. The US contract and fees component of NT2 is
approximately $250 million and has job ramifications for the company's
operations in Illinois. The project is contingent upon a World Bank
partial risk guarantee and financing and will have a major impact on
poverty alleviation, environmental/social safeguards, civil society,
fiscal transparency and long term democratic reforms in Laos. For
further information, please access the NT2 website at www.namtheun2.com
CFCO has a good working relationship with the Lao PDR and Thai
Ambassadors to the US, Ambassador Doug Hartwick, US Ambassador to Laos,
Bush Administration, Congressional, NGO, public policy and Laotian
American sources supportive of NTR for Laos. We have helped mobilize a
private, public and voluntary sector lobby to encourage Congressional
passage of NTR for Laos and many of our contacts have submitted written
statements for the record.
Attached is a May 23, 2002 speech given in the US House of
Representatives on, ``The relationship of sustainable economic
development to poverty alleviation, social/civil reforms,
reconciliation and environmental protection, in Laos'' at a National
Laotian-American Symposium on United States-Laos relations. It
underscores the importance of the potential that NTR has to positively
impact the lives of many Laotians, encourage free enterprise and
expanded two way trade between the US and Lao PDR.
Thank you for your leadership on this important legislative action.
With every good wish for continued success.
Sincerely,
Tony R. Culley-Foster
President
______
Tony R. Culley-Foster, BA, ACP, TD, MA
President, CFCO International
Washington, DC
International business consultant and lobbyist on behalf of
European-American multinational companies with investment, trade,
manufacturing, or service industry interests in the United States.
Involved with EU-US senior executives in business management,
government relations and corporate communications strategic matters
related to international commercial priorities in North America.
Management advice and support services on business development,
regulatory, legislative, lobby, contract bid, sales, economic
development, public relations and communications priorities in
national, State and municipal markets.
Development and implementation of EU-US strategic and tactical
business plans, involving representatives of the White House, Cabinet
agencies, Congress of the United States, States, municipalities, World
Bank, Overseas Private Investment Corporation, trade associations,
European-American corporations and US media.
Utilization of extensive business, government and voluntary sector
contacts throughout Europe and North America to advance joint venture,
strategic alliances, technology transfer, economic development, trade
and investment priorities.
Former Founding Director and Chief Executive of the Congressional
Award, Washington DC; the American counterpart of the Duke of
Edinburgh's Award. Reported to the leadership of the Congress of the
United States and a 33 person Board of Directors composed of
distinguished American corporate, labor, government, education and
civic leaders.
Former Personal Assistant to W. Clement Stone, Chairman and Founder
of Combined Insurance Company of America (now AON Corporation, a $10
Billion Chicago-based, multinational financial services company).
Founding Chairman, Northern Ireland Partnership--USA and the
Northern Ireland--United States Chamber of Commerce Inc. Involved with
US-EU private, public and voluntary sector leaders on peace, economic
development, trade, investment, education and cultural projects
involving Northern Ireland and Ireland.
Professional profiles in Who's Who in: The World; America; Leaders
in Finance & Industry; and Emerging Leaders in the United States.
Numerous commendations from government, business and civic leaders
in the United States, Ireland and the United Kingdom for voluntary
service, private sector initiatives and corporate social responsibility
leadership.
Born in Londonderry, Northern Ireland.
Educated in the United Kingdom, Ireland and the United States.
______
NATIONAL LAOTIAN-AMERICAN SYMPOSIUM
on
UNITED STATES-LAOS RELATIONS
Panel presentation on
``The relationship of sustainable economic development to poverty
alleviation, social/civil reforms, reconciliation and environmental
protection, in Laos.''
The Gold Room, Rayburn House Office Building
United States House of Representatives
Thursday May 23, 2002
12:00 pm-1:00 pm
Comments by:
Tony R. Culley-Foster
President, CFCO International &
Nam Theun 2 Electricity Consortium
US Representative
Thanks for the opportunity to share some perspectives on the
relationship of sustainable economic development to poverty
alleviation, social/civil reforms, reconciliation and environmental
protection in Laos.
During the past 13 months, CFCO International has been privileged
to be the United States representative for the Nam Theun 2 Electricity
Consortium (NT2).
The proposed $1.1 billion infrastructure investment in Laos is
being developed by a French-American-Thai-Laotian international private
public partnership, whose goal is to build, own, operate and transfer
(to Government of Lao ownership) an international best practice
hydroelectric dam (see NT2 power project attachment). The project has
the support of the President of Lao PDR, the Prime Minister of Thailand
and the President of France.
Sustainable Economic Development
Laos is one of the world's poorest developing nations and the only
member of ASEAN that does not have Normal Trade Relations with the
United States. As a landlinked nation, it has focused on strengthening
its bilateral relationships with Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, China,
and others in the international community; plus development of its two
principal natural resources, timber and hydropower. Controlled
exploitation of these commercial resources is the only viable economic
development alternative for Lao PDR and a means to earn much-needed
foreign currency. The GOL has wisely chosen sustainable long-term
hydroelectric export production, over massive unsustainable logging of
some of the most pristine and biodiversity-rich rainforest in SE Asia.
Poverty Alleviation
During 2001, the GOL, IMF and World Bank developed a comprehensive
Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility program that was originally
linked to NT2. It was deemed so important to the nation, and its
overall development program, that the PRGF will be implemented
regardless of the NT2 outcome. However, in conjunction with NT2, the
poverty fund impact will be much more significant, pervasive and long-
term for the people of Laos.
Unless Laos has a stronger, self-sustaining economy, it will be
unable to fund, support or maintain long-term poverty alleviation and
improved social/civil society reform programs. The substantial
hydroelectric export revenues that will result from NT2, over the next
30 years, constitute a sizeable percentage of Lao's GDP and will be
efficiently managed; due to the stringent provision of the GOL
Financial Management conditionality. The enforcement mechanism ensures
that funds can ONLY be allocated to specific sustainable development
priorities.
Social/Civil Reforms
A 25/30 year project of the magnitude of NT2 is recognized by the
Lao PDR, international community, and multilateral agencies, as
providing economic growth and national stability that will be the
foundation for long-term social and civil reforms in Lao PDR. NT2 can
be the financial catalyst for a progressive reform movement as the
project development process and GOL negotiations with the World Bank,
IMF and NTEC have resulted in increased fiscal conditionality,
governmental oversight and societal transparency provisions.
Reconciliation
Laos has 67 ethnic groups represented in its national population of
5.2 million, of whom 500,000, or approximately 10%, are Hmong.
The Cold War and Indo-China conflict are long over. Lao PDR is a
sovereign nation with full recognition and representation in ASEAN and
the United Nations. Vietnam, Cambodia and China have reconciled past
differences with the US; Laos needs the politics of inclusion, not
exclusion; foreign policy bridges not walls, and dams not damnation, to
assist its transition to a more representative democratic nation.
Since September 11, that ethos has become even more compelling,
with the movement toward stronger bilateral relations between the
United States and its allies in the international war on terrorism.
Laos is one of those allies and since September 13 has had a new
American Ambassador to facilitate `bridge building' between the two
countries. Reconciliation between the leaders of the American-Hmong
community and the Lao PDR government will be facilitated by economic
stability, related social/civil reforms, poverty alleviation and
environmental protection from sustainable development projects like
NT2. It will happen when each of the groups takes `real risks for
reconciliation' and there is a stronger US-Lao PDR bilateral
relationship.
Environmental Protection
NT2 meets or exceeds the social safeguards and environmental
protection standards advocated by the World Commission on Dams. It has
established an international best practice benchmark of excellence for
a hydroelectric project that other development groups will attempt to
emulate, globally. The net social and environmental offsets of NT2
substantially outweigh the inevitable impact of siting a major dam
anywhere in the world.
(Please note the attached March 2002 ``Interim Report of the
International Environmental and Social Panel of Experts'' for further
details on the NT2 social and environmental priorities).
Summary
In April 2002, the Inaugural Session of the V<SUP>th</SUP>
Legislature of the Lao PDR National Assembly noted in Resolution #6
that:
``The session deliberated and endorsed the Theun II Hydropower
Project Plan proposed by the Government. The session concluded the
shared view that the project plan is the Government's priority program
and is of high socio-economic efficiency meeting the national strategic
plan to poverty reduction of pluri-ethnic people, providing solid
foundation in turning the country to industrialization and
modernization, responding to actual needs of people inhabited in the
project area.''
During this past year, I have had the privilege of meeting Lao PDR
leadership representatives and many Laotians in Laos and the United
States. I have also spent time in Vientiane and on the Nakai Plateau,
especially with the people whose lives and land would be most impacted
by the development of NT2. It has been a profoundly moving experience
and has deepened my desire to increase international private, public
and voluntary (NGO) support for NT2 as a sustainable economic
development project to benefit all the people of Laos and strengthen
the US-Laos bilateral relationship.
I appreciate the opportunity to be part of this inaugural Symposium
and will be pleased to answer any questions on the Nam Theun 2
Electricity Consortium advocacy for establishment of the NT2
hydroelectric dam in Laos.
<F-dash>
Warrensburg, Missouri 64093
April 21, 2003
Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman
Subcommittee on Trade
Ways and Means Committee
House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Fax: 202-225-2610
Dear Chairman Crane,
We support Normal Trade Relations (NTR) between the U.S. and the
Lao PDR and urge your subcommittee and the 108<SUP>th</SUP> Congress to
approve and bring into force the Bilateral Trade Agreements concluded
in 1997.
Each of us base the following comments on over 25 years of
professional experience in socio-economic development and democratic
governance in the Lao PDR. In particularly, since 1978, we have lived
and worked in the Lao PDR, either full time or part time, working with
numerous international, bilateral and NGO assistance organizations. We
have followed Lao-U.S. relations closely. On one occasion, we provided
expert testimony on the MIA-POW situation in the Lao PDR at the request
of the Senate MIA-POW Sub-committee. We have worked on development
projects or done research in all provinces of the country. Much of our
work has focused on remote districts, which continue to face the post-
war consequences of unexploded weapons and chemical and biological
weapons and socio-economic disruptions. We have performed research and
have written extensively on the issues of rural socio-economic
development, minority rights, ethnic sensitivity, gender equity, the
status of children and families, democratic rights, good governance and
participatory development.
From our extensive work, we maintain that the Lao PDR has made
significant progress since 1990 in the following areas:
1) The Lao Government has steadily improved bilateral cooperation
with the U.S. government, especially on POW-MIA investigations and the
drug eradication. Therefore, we agree with the recent positive
assessments of our Defense and State Departments on these points.
2) The Lao Government has joined ASEAN in 1997 and is now preparing
to integrate its economy into the world trade system. The regional and
international experience is positively exposing Lao officials to
practical lessons on establishing democratic governance and open trade
processes.
3) The Lao Government is gradually improving its policies and
practices on several critical human rights issues including religious
rights, gender equity issues, and intensifying assistance to the
poorest segments of society. We would agree with the State Department's
assessment that, at this time, there is no evidence of genocide or
ethnic cleansing of any non Tai-Lao ethnic people. Many of the current
inadequacies on human rights (low education levels, poor enforcement
and incarceration processes, for example), can be attributed to the
general under-development of the nation as whole, rather than to
purposeful negative policies. Therefore, the Lao PDR's low levels of
institutional and human resource development would benefit greatly from
exposure to international experiences, training and support from
country such as the United States.
4) The Lao Government, according to international development
reports, is making progress on many socio-economic development issues.
The Asian Development Bank, for example, contends that over the past
ten years, the Lao PDR has progressed well on its targets for reaching
the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals (MDG) by 2015.
<bullet> LThe country has a favorable chance of reducing by half of
its 1990 level the proportion of people whose income is less than one
dollar a day. The poverty incidence has dropped from 45% in 1992/92 to
39% in 1997/98.
<bullet> LNet primary enrollment is gradually increasing (62% in
1990 to 78% in 2001). ``Full primary enrollment should be possible by
2011. Less certain is the MDG that all girls and boys will complete a
full course of primary schooling by 2015. Girls make up 45% of primary
school enrollment, making it possible to reach gender equality by 2015.
<bullet> LThe infant mortality goal of a two-thirds reduction can
be achieved as the rate has already dropped from 110 per 1,000 in 1990
to 75 per 1,000 in 2000.
<bullet> LLikewise, child mortality has decreased by more than
half, 170 per 1,000 in 1990 to 97 in 2000.
<bullet> LReducing by one-half the number of people without safe
drinking water can be met as access to clean water has gone from 39% in
1990 to 58% in 2000.
5) The Lao Government is making step-by-step progress in addressing
issues related to Good Governance and Participatory Development. On
these subjects, we have recently conducted research, commissioned by
Sida, the Swedish government's foreign assistance cooperation agency.
As the 90-page study on Good Governance and Participatory Development
has just been finalized in mid-April 2003, we submit the conclusion for
your consideration. (See next page.)
Submitted by
Jacquelyn Chagnon
Independent Development Consultant
Reverend Roger Rumpf
Consultant on Peace and Post-War Reconstruction
______
Excerpt from:
Back to See Forward; Consultations about Good Governance and
Participatory Development in the Lao PDR (Sida, Vientiane, April 2003)
by Jacquelyn Chagnon, Dirk Van Gansberghe, Roger Rumpf, and Binh
Vongphasouk.
(Each member of the study team (three internationals, including
ourselves, and one Lao) has between 12 and 25 years of experience on
development in the Lao PDR. The study team investigated these topics
through participatory small group consultations and interviews with
over 250 citizens and officials in five provinces. The team also
reviewed and summarized dozens of reports of the United Nations, World
Bank, Asian Development Bank and NGOs.)
In Conclusion
During the last decade, the Lao PDR has established and developed
rudimentary institutions for Good Governance and Participatory
Development: the Constitution, legal codes, the National Assembly, the
judicial branch, research institutes, the national auditing system, tax
collection, and enforcement bodies. Citizens are being exposed to
participatory development projects, increased media, IT access, and
some elements of civil society. The one-party centralized government
system clearly has shown its political will on starting the long-term
process of Decentralization. Overall, the Study Team determined that
the Lao PDR has taken significant steps forward in establishing new
institutions for Good Governance and Participatory Development.
However, citizen awareness about how these new institutions of
governance and development function remains far too low. Few understand
how these institutions interlink and interact with each other. Terms
such as Decentralization, democratic elections, the separation of
powers, government, accountability, civil service reforms and public
information access, and civil society are rather new to the country's
limited number of educated professionals and not well understood yet.
For the vast majority of rural people, such concepts have scant meaning
yet. To learn about these concepts of Good Governance and put them into
systematic practice within the Lao context will be the challenge of the
next few decades.
Here, the growth of Participatory Development practices, which
blend naturally into the general socio-cultural framework, appears to
be fostering aspects of Good Governance. Within many development
projects at all levels, participatory approaches are exposing a growing
number of Lao citizens to forms of public consultations and dialogues
on planning and implementation, group decision-making, aspects of
informed choice, models of good management, and accountability and
transparency measures.
There is no question that the government and people face many
serious growth challenges during the next decade. Some key issues
reviewed in this Study were civil service reforms, enforcement of laws
and regulations, equitable service outreach, equitable revenue
collection, realistic planning, budgeting and expenditure
implementation, improvement to district and village administrations,
and enlargement of the civil society framework. As national human and
financial resources are limitedfor addressing many of these
issues,international support and opportunities for further learning
remain critical.
In the opinion of the Study Team, if the government and people can
continue to address these challenges, the Lao PDR has a reasonable
chance of strengthening its legs of Good Governance and Participatory
Development and moving forward on the path of Democratic Governance.
<F-dash>
Alexandria, Virginia 22312
April 15, 2003
To: LHonorable Charles Grassley, Chairman, Committee on Finance, United
States Senate.
Honorable William M. Thomas, Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means.
Honorable Philip M. Crane, Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of Ways
and Means Committee,
E-mail: hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
Fax: (202) 225-2610
Honorable:
As American citizen, I am asking for your support for granting
normal trade relations status (NTR) to the Lao People's Democratic
Republic.
This small landlocked country of Laos was never at war with the
United States, but was heavily bombed because it was next to Vietnam.
Diplomatic relations between the United States and Laos were never
severed, unlike other nations in the region. Truly, Laos is a big
player in this South East Asian economic show, but why make it even
more difficult for them to develop market economy.
I'm not the type of person who believes that we owe Laos something.
Granting of the NTR costs us nothing. This isn't a monetary gift; it's
a chance for them to attract US business and investment. NTR will help
improving standard of living for one of the poorest countries in the
world.
I therefore, support the joint proposal of Honorable Colin Powell,
Secretary of State and Honorable Robert Zoellick of the USTR, for
granting NTR to Laos.
It is my sincere hope that you will support the said proposal and
help granting NTR to Laos.
Sincerely,
Vilay Chaleunrath
<F-dash>
Jersey City, New Jersey 07302
April 3, 2003
Dear Members of Congress:
I am an American of Laotian descent writing to you from Jersey City
of Hudson County, New Jersey 07302.
I am writing to you today in support of this basic humanitarian
effort to grant Laos Normal Trade Relations, which similar nations in
the region such as Vietnam and Cambodia currently enjoys with the U.S.
Laos as you know is the only country in Southeast Asia and member of
ASEAN that currently does not have NTR.
The U.S. has afforded my family and I the opportunity to enjoy the
freedom and abundant resources of this great nation since our arrival
in 1980 as refugees from the Vietnam War and the U.S. Secret War in
Laos.
I have learned from history, since my father does not talk about
the ``WAR'', nor have I ever confronted him much about this topic, that
my father and Laos fought with the support of the U.S. military in the
war against communism waged in Laos and Vietnam.
I ask that you and members of Congress exercise understanding to
grant Laos Normal Trade Relations (NTR) with the U.S. giving Laos the
same opportunities, privileges, and access to the U.S. markets just
like it's neighbors, Vietnam and Cambodia. Without NTR, tariff as high
as 80% on Laos goods and services would make it impossible and
unprofitable for Laotians entrepreneur and businesses in Laos to export
to the U.S.
Laos' current population of 6 million faces many challenges and is
one of the poorest countries in the world. The U.S. bombardment of Laos
has earned Laos the title of the Most Bombed Nation on Earth. Till this
day, some 30 years since the Vietnam War, unexploded ordinance lie
infested in the soil across Laos, and innocent children and civilians
face death or injuries in the double digits each month. These Bombies
(UXO) lying dormant until accidentally triggered presents danger, but
also detering development, investments, and impedes growth in a country
that desparately needs it the most.
U.S. Ambassador to Laos, Douglas Hartwick has clearly expressed his
public support for NTR for Laos, which would aid Laos to adopt and
conform to world standards and rules of engagements in the
international market place. Also Laos has expressed their interest in
the Market Economy much like how China has embrace the very same idea.
For over 50 years Laos has maintained diplomatic relations with the
U.S., however it's neighboring countries such as Vietnam and Cambodia
cannot say the same, yet they enjoy normal trade relations with the
U.S.
I urge you and members of Congress to grant Laos NTR, the same
basic privileges that over 95% of countries in the world presently
shares with the U.S.
President Bush has included NTR for Laos as one of his 2003
Initiatives. Congress will have the opportunity to finally ratify the
1997 U.S.-Lao NTR Proposal into law this coming year.
What NTR will mean to the Laotian people are jobs, food, shelter,
and improvements in the standard of living. This will create new-found
opportunities, potential, and less dependency on neighboring countries.
NTR for Laos would benefit both the U.S. and Laos short and long-
term. History supports and indicates that the road towards democracy is
enhanced with economic developments.
I believe I speak for the hearts of many of the six hundred
thousand or so Laotian-Americans, whose voices may have not yet reached
your ears. Please focus on the importance of NTR and it's benefits to
the PEOPLE of LAOS, Laotian-Americans, and the U.S.
Again, please bless the people of Laos with your generosity and
understanding of this very crucial matter they may not all fully
understand but would all benefit from the decisions you make here in
the U.S. Congress. Thank so much for your time and understanding.
Sincerely,
``Sirch'' Sourichanh Chanthyasack
______
Fact Sheet on US-Lao Relations
March 2002
<bullet> LThe US has had diplomatic relations with the Lao People's
Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) since its founding in 1975. These
relations were not interrupted as in the cases of Vietnam and Cambodia.
The current US Ambassador, Douglas Hartwick, arrived in Vientiane in
September 2001.
<bullet> LAccording to the State Department, international donors
and NGOs, the Lao government is cooperating fully on the search for MIA
remains from the Vietnam War and a campaign to eradicate narcotics
production and trade in northern Laos. Since September 11, Laos has
also aided the US in counterterrorism efforts.
<bullet> LThe US currently funds approximately $10 million per year
in MIA recovery, clearance of and education about unexploded ordnance
(UXO), and counter-narcotics programs in Laos. The Lao government has
also expressed willingness to cooperate on HIV-AIDS and trafficking of
women and children from Laos to neighboring countries. In FY 2002
Congress appropriated $2 million for health and economic assistance to
Laos, including a silk-production project.
<bullet> LA US-Lao bilateral trade agreement was initialed in 1998
but never signed by the Administration nor ratified by Congress.
President Bush has not yet submitted the agreement to Congress for
ratification, although it is included in the President's 2001 trade
agenda. Unlike its neighbors China and Vietnam, Laos is not subject to
Jackson-Vanik waiver requirements.
<bullet> LLaos is the only country in Southeast Asia without normal
trade relations (NTR) with the US. The only other countries in the
world without NTR are Afghanistan, Cuba, North Korea, and Yugoslavia,
none of which has normal diplomatic relations with the US.
<bullet> LAnalysis by Ed Gresser of the Progressive Policy
Institute has found that Lao exports to the US face the highest average
tariff rates in the world: 45.3% in 2001, compared with a global
average of 2.4%. Lao exports to the US have declined from $16.4 million
in 1996 to $3.7 million last year, while Cambodian exports have risen
from $4 million to nearly $1 billion over the same period due to NTR
and a textile agreement.
<bullet> LThe Lao PDR is a multiethnic state with a bare majority
of ethnic Lao and more than 40 minority groups, the largest being Kam
Mou (11%), Phou Thay (10%) and Hmong (7%). Although income and
education gaps among regions and ethnic groups can be great, there is
no legal discrimination against specific minority groups. Ethnic
minorities are represented at all levels of government. More than 80
international development organizations in Laos, including 11 American
NGOs, are encouraged to work with all ethnic groups and have access to
all parts of the country.
<bullet> LThe US fought a secret war in Laos from 1964-1973, the
extent of which is still relatively unknown. The legacy of the war
includes ``bombies'' and other UXO as well as herbicides such as Agent
Orange. These effects are concentrated in the poorest and most remote
areas of the country.
<bullet> LApproximately 500,000 people of Lao and Hmong descent
live in the US (compared with a total Lao population of 5 million). The
Laotian-American community includes a range of views on trade and
engagement with Laos. An increasing number of Laotian-Americans are
interested in visiting their country of origin and can potentially play
a major role in trade, development and reconciliation between the US
and Laos.
<bullet> LLaos continues to have human rights problems, like many
of its Asian neighbors. International human rights groups do not have
access inside Laos. However, some progress has been made in the area of
religious freedom through quiet diplomacy. A delegation from the US
Commission on International Religious Freedom visited Laos in February,
and Ambassador Hartwick has also raised the issue with the Lao
government.
<bullet> LIn April 1999, two Hmong-Americans, Michael Vang and Houa
Ly, disappeared along the northwestern Thai-Lao border. They may have
been attempting to enter Laos illegally and were reportedly carrying
large amounts of cash, in excess of $80,000, and connected with
insurgency activities. Two FBI delegations have visited Laos to
investigate the case; the Lao government claims to have no record of
the two men entering the country.
We recommend that US policy towards Laos include the following points:
1. The US-Lao Bilateral Trade Agreement should be submitted to
Congress and approved as soon as feasible.
2. Americans of Lao and Hmong descent should be able to travel and
do business freely with their country of origin.
3. The US should continue dialogue and cooperation with Laos on
human rights, including war legacy issues, religious freedom and labor
conditions. The US can contribute to solutions through greater
engagement, not isolation. Improvements will come with a focus on
specific issues and cases, rather than by linking human rights to
trade.
4. US-Lao relations should not be held hostage to the unresolved
1999 disappearances case. Resolution of this case is a consular matter
with no bearing on trade status. Regardless of what activities Ly and
Vang were involved in when they disappeared, however, the US and Laos
should continue to investigate the case.
______
Arguments for Lao NTR
February 2002
1. Fairness. All of Laos's neighbors, including Vietnam, China,
Cambodia and Burma, have NTR. There is no reason to single Laos out.
Only 6 countries do not have NTR (Afghanistan, Cuba, Libya, Laos, Iraq
and North Korea). The other 5 are all on the State Department's list of
countries involved in international terrorism. Laos is not.
2. Historical responsibility. The US fought a secret war in Laos
from 1964-1973, the extent of which is still relatively unknown. The
legacy of the war includes ``bombies'' and other UXO as well as Agent
Orange and other herbicides. Laos deserves at least normal treatment
from the US on this basis.
3. Economics. Laos is a poor developing country that needs more
contact with the outside world to stay afloat. A more prosperous Laos
is in the US interest.
4. Counternarcotics. Passage of the trade agreement is the most
cost-effective way to fight opium poppy production, by enabling Lao
farmers to produce silk and other products for the US market.
5. Lao-American cultural and business contacts. Americans of Lao
descent should be able to travel and do business freely with their
country of origin. American veterans are also interested in these
opportunities.
Responses to opposing arguments
1. Human rights and religious freedom. Laos does have problems in
these areas, as do many of its neighbors. These are legitimate issues
for discussion and dialogue with the Lao government. The US can
contribute to solutions through greater engagement, not isolation.
Improvements will come with cooperation on specific issues and cases,
rather than linking human rights to trade.
2. Ly-Vang disappearance case (April 1999). Resolution of this case
is a consular matter that should have no bearing on trade status.
American citizens go missing all over the world for many reasons.
Regardless of what activities Ly and Vang were involved in when they
disappeared, the US and Laos should continue to investigate the case.
3. Alleged discrimination towards the Hmong and other ethnic
groups. While income and education gaps among regions and ethnicities
in Laos can be great, there is no legal discrimination against specific
minority groups. The so-called ``Hmong lobby'' in the US includes
remnants of the CIA-backed Hmong insurgency during the war who seek to
overthrow the current Lao government or create a separate Hmong state.
They do not speak for all Lao and Hmong in the US and routinely
intimidate and harass their opponents. Some members may be involved in
funding terrorist activities inside Laos.
______
The fact sheet and argument list were prepared by Andrew Wells-
Dang, Washington Representative of the Fund for Reconciliation and
Development. Andrew can be reached at washington@ffrd.org.
______
Americans from
Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam
Statistics
Produced by the
Southeast Asia Resource Action Center
(SEARAC)
www.searac.org
January 27, 2003
Southeast Asian American Populations
Individuals Who Reported One or More Ethnic/Racial Designation
(2000 Census Data)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
State Cambodian Hmong Laotian Vietnamese Total
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alabama 593 11 1,023 5,242 6,869
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alaska 178 321 1,515 1,050 3,064
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Arizona 1,406 36 1,243 14,533 17,218
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Arkansas 36 33 3,256 4,392 7,717
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
California 84,559 71,741 65,058 484,023 705,381
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Colorado 1,839 3,351 2,543 17,108 24,841
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Connecticut 2,790 163 3,267 8,271 14,491
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delaware 36 1 130 893 1,060
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DC 47 6 62 2,035 2,150
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Florida 3,040 163 4,126 37,086 44,415
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Georgia 3,405 1,615 5,220 31,092 41,332
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hawaii 330 22 2,437 10,040 12,829
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Idaho 86 45 597 1,511 2,239
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Illinois 3,516 604 5,973 21,212 31,305
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Indiana 695 172 1,138 5,540 7,545
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Iowa 803 303 4,778 7,803 13,687
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kansas 896 1,118 3,926 12,616 18,556
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kentucky 369 17 378 4,019 4,783
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Louisiana 450 23 1,511 25,601 27,585
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maine 1,298 3 109 1,571 2,981
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maryland 2,239 15 772 18,086 21,112
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Massachusetts 22,886 1,303 4,449 36,685 65,323
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Michigan 1,602 5,998 3,846 15,232 26,678
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Minnesota 6,533 45,443 11,516 20,570 84,062
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mississippi 78 9 111 5,729 5,927
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Missouri 880 26 840 11,654 13,400
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Montana 12 229 85 293 619
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nebraska 142 108 1,078 6,755 8,083
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nevada 631 117 1,421 5,428 7,597
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New Hampshire 375 21 513 1,900 2,809
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New Jersey 868 27 629 16,707 18,231
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New Mexico 71 15 457 3,637 4,180
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New York 3,740 281 3,715 27,105 34,841
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
North Carolina 2,681 7,982 6,282 17,142 34,087
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
North Dakota 50 4 27 560 641
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ohio 3,161 407 3,277 11,219 18,064
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oklahoma 330 579 1,216 13,673 15,798
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oregon 3,173 2,298 5,176 20,709 31,356
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pennsylvania 10,207 844 2,536 33,204 46,791
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rhode Island 5,290 1,112 3,507 1,134 11,043
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
South Carolina 644 570 1,040 4,758 7,012
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
South Dakota 84 42 295 708 1,129
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tennessee 1,304 164 4,761 7,739 13,968
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Texas 8,225 422 11,626 143,352 163,625
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Utah 1,663 190 2,715 6,742 11,310
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vermont 107 5 99 1,080 1,291
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Virginia 5,180 55 3,076 40,500 48,811
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Washington 16,630 1,485 9,382 50,697 78,194
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
West Virginia 15 2 40 467 524
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wisconsin 856 36,809 5,405 4,505 47,575
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wyoming 23 0 21 128 172
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals 206,052 186,310 198,203 1,223,736 1,814,301
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Immigrants (Excluding Refugees and Asylees)
Admitted to the U.S. from Southeast Asia,
Fiscal Years 1952 through 2001
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fiscal Years Cambodia Laos Vietnam Total
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1951-1970 96 227 4,675 4,998
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1971 21 24 2,038 2,083
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1972 39 35 3,412 3,486
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1973 66 46 4,569 4,681
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1974 40 61 3,192 3,293
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1975 98 96 3,039 3,233
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1976 126 163 4,230 4,519
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1977 126 237 4,629 4,992
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1978 * * 2,892 2,892
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1979 * * 2,065 2,065
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1980 148 179 4,510 4,837
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1981 113 78 2,238 2,429
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1982 129 130 3,030 3,289
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1983 163 159 3,275 3,597
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1984 193 185 5,203 5,581
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1985 198 212 5,120 5,530
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1986 9,013 4,239 15,256 28,508
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1987 8,494 3,557 11,489 23,540
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1988 7,098 6,037 14,231 27,366
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1989 4,425 6,973 25,957 37,355
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1990 3,577 6,364 37,773 47,714
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1991 2,564 5,792 43,939 52,295
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1992 878 670 45,580 47,128
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1993 831 738 29,365 30,934
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1994 847 607 14,027 15,481
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1995 1,224 572 13,157 14,953
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1996 1,358 692 12,367 14,417
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1997 1,475 572 16,222 18,269
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1,377 502 12,728 14,607
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1,361 471 15,890 17,722
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2000 2,106 672 21,171 23,949
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2001 2,398 896 25,180 28,474
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals 50,582 41,186 412,449 504,217
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTE: All figures in this table are from the Statistical Yearbook
of the Immigration and Naturalization Service, fiscal years 1980
through 2000, except the following: (1) figures for fiscal year 2001
are from the INS website (www.ins.gov); (2) figures for 1978 and 1979
are from Rumbaut (2000: 182). Reliable figures for Cambodia and Vietnam
for 1978 and 1979 are unavailable. These figures include Amerasians.
Figures for fiscal years 1980 through 2001 have been adjusted to
reflect the fact that ``immigrant arrival'' statistics record the
number of people granted ``immigrant'' (or ``permanent resident
alien'') status for the given year, and do not represent only new
arrivals to the U.S. Figures in this table for the years 1980 through
2001 were derived by subtracting INS ``refugee and asylee adjustment''
numbers from the ``immigrant'' numbers.
Sources:
Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). 1981-2001.
Statistical Yearbook of the Immigration and Naturalization Service
(fiscal years 1980-2000). Washington, DC: Immigration and
Naturalization Service, U.S. Department of Justice.
Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) website: www.ins.gov.
Rumbaut, Ruben G. 2000. Vietnamese, Laotian, and Cambodian
Americans. In Contemporary Asian America: A Multidisciplinary Reader.
Edited by Min Zhou and James V. Gatewood. New York, NY: New York
University Press. Pp. 175-206.
Refugee Arrivals to the U.S. From Southeast Asia,
Fiscal Years 1975-2000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fiscal Year Cambodia Laos Vietnam Total
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1975 4,600 800 125,000 130,400
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1976 1,100 10,200 3,200 14,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1977 300 400 1,900 2,600
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1978 1,300 8,000 11,100 20,400
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1979 6,000 30,200 44,500 80,700
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1980 16,000 55,500 95,200 166,700
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1981 38,194 19,777 65,279 123,250
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1982 6,246 3,616 27,396 37,258
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1983 13,041 2,907 22,819 38,767
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1984 19,727 7,218 24,856 51,801
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1985 19,175 5,195 25,222 49,592
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1986 9,845 12,313 21,700 43,858
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1987 1,786 13,394 19,656 34,836
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1988 2,897 14,597 17,571 35,065
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1989 2,162 12,560 21,924 36,646
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1990 2,329 8,715 27,797 38,841
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1991 179 9,232 28,396 37,807
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1992 163 7,285 26,795 34,243
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1993 63 6,944 31,401 38,408
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1994 15 6,211 34,110 40,336
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1995 6 3,682 32,250 35,938
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1996 5 2,203 16,107 18,315
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1997 9 915 6,612 7,536
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 7 9 10,266 10,282
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 0 19 9,622 9,641
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2000 0 64 2,839 2,903
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals 145,149 241,956 753,518 1,140,623
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sources:
Office of Refugee Resettlement. 1982-2001. Annual Reports to
Congress (fiscal years 1981-2000). Washington, DC: Office of Refugee
Resettlement, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department
of Health and Human Services.
Refugee arrival statistics for FY 1975-1980 are from Rumbaut (2000:
182).
People from Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam
Naturalized as U.S. Citizens, Fiscal Years 1987-2001
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fiscal Year Cambodia Laos Vietnam Total
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1987 2,816 3,159 25,469 31,444
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1988 3,132 3,480 21,636 28,248
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1989 3,234 3,463 19,357 26,054
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1990 3,525 3,329 22,027 28,881
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1991 4,851 3,887 30,078 38,816
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1992 2,713 3,080 18,422 24,215
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1993 3,102 3,994 22,520 29,616
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1994 4,132 5,630 29,555 39,317
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1995 3,319 4,315 31,728 39,362
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1996 5,202 10,621 51,910 67,733
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1997 5,180 8,630 36,178 49,988
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 5,348 7,734 30,185 43,267
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 7,140 9,188 53,316 69,644
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2000 5,292 7,163 55,934 68,389
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2001 3,489 6,507 41,596 51,592
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals 62,475 84,180 489,911 636,566
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source:
Statistical Yearbook of the Immigration and Naturalization Service
(fiscal years 1986-2001) and www.ins.gov.
<F-dash>
Flat Rock, North Carolina 28731
April 14, 2003
Representative Philip M. Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
Via fax: 202-225-2610
Mr. Chairman:
This letter is in response to a request for comments concerning
normal trade relations (NTR) with Laos.
I served as President Reagan's Director of Political/Military, then
Asian Affairs on the National Security Council staff from 1981-89. In
that capacity, I led or participated in all policy-level negotiations
with Laos in New York, Washington and Vientiane, many at the politburo
and ministerial level. Subsequent to leaving government, I established
a U.S. consulting firm aiding U.S. businesses interested in the ASEAN
region and remained deeply involved in Lao-related issues.
I have seen Laos respond positively and in a significant way over
the years to our institutional concerns on POW/MIA accounting and
narcotics. In addition, they have increased their responsiveness to
U.S. Government concerns on human rights and religious persecution, as
well as to NGO's focusing on these issues. In my opinion, it is clearly
time for the U.S. to grant NTR to Laos.
Landlocked and buffeted by economic forces beyond their control,
and surrounded by the dominant economies and populations of the PRC,
Thailand and Vietnam, NTR can help Laos develop some economic autonomy.
NTR will greatly benefit the people of Laos, many of whom remain mired
in rural poverty. The reduction of poverty and concurrent economic
development will strengthen and increase the Lao position in ASEAN and
other multilateral bodies. This will, in turn, reduce the vulnerability
of the Lao Government to internal and external threats to stability,
reduce their dependence on others for security and increase official
exposure to positive models of economic and political development.
I returned from another visit to Laos in late February as the
policy adviser to the delegation of the National League of POW/MIA
Families. During our visit, I had discussions on this subject with Lao
officials, our representatives on the ground and other foreign
officials. All felt strongly that this is the time to move forward
despite the likelihood, as in the past, that some elements opposed may
attempt another dramatic accusation to derail the effort. I believe
those now disaffected have some legitimate grievances, but their
extreme and often inaccurate charges discredit their cause.
Importantly, I believe there is a greater chance to resolve these
concerns through granting of NTR.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Richard T. Childress
<F-dash>
Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815
Providence, Rhode Island 02818
April 21, 2003
Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman
Subcommittee on Trade
Ways and Means Committee
House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Fax: 202-225-2610
RE: US-Laos Trade
Dear Chairman Crane,
Please submit the US-Laos Bilateral Trade Agreement to the
108<SUP>th</SUP> Congress for prompt consideration and passage. Both
the United States and Laos will substantially benefit from the normal
trade relations (NTR) establishment.
At the moment, there is no rational justification why the current
high trade barriers between Laos and US should subsist. Laos is the
only country in Southeast Asia without normal trade relations (NTR)
with the US. Other countries in the world without NTR are Afghanistan,
Cuba, North Korea, and Yugoslavia, none of which has normal diplomatic
relations with the US. And despite interruptions of disengaged
relations in the past, Cambodia and Vietnam have been granted NTR. On
the other hand, the US and Laos has continued diplomatic relationship
since 1975 with no interruptions.
Furthermore, the Lao government is cooperating fully on the search
for MIA remains from the Vietnam War and a campaign to eradicate
narcotics production and trade in northern Laos. Moreover, the US
currently funds about $10 million per year in MIA recovery, clearance
of and education about unexploded ordnance (UXO), and counter-narcotics
programs in Laos. The Lao government has extended efforts to help the
international community to control HIV-AIDS and trafficking of women
and children from Laos to neighboring countries. Meanwhile, Congress
has appropriated funds to assist Laos with its healthcare and economic
development, including a silk-production project.
Without NTR for Laos, there are also some welfare loss for American
consumers: Lao products are simply not competitive enough to enter the
US market, and/or American consumers end up paying much higher for Lao
imports. As American consumers, we would like to purchase Lao products
(e.g., silk, wood, and food products) and to purchase them at the lower
internationally competitive price. So please grant NTR to Laos.
Equally important, most economic development and international
trade economists have published papers citing evidence of how increase
in trade promotes economic growth, especially for an under-developed
country such as Laos (see, e.g., Frankel J.A. and D. Romer, 1999.
``Does Trade Cause Growth?'' American Economic Review 89:3, 379-399).
Economic growth increases income for the Lao people (one of the poorest
group of people in the world), enabling them to increase their standard
of living, to pursue higher education, and to work towards a democratic
society. The US-Laos NTR will give the people of Laos a means to not
only improve their economic status, but it will give them a voice to
endeavor for their rights. Hence, the US-Laos NTR is essential for the
economic, social, and political development and stability of Laos and
her people.
Laos cannot simply be left isolated; NTR will integrate her into
the international community with respect to not only trade/economic
relations but with respect to social, political, and human rights
improvement. Restructuring Laos' economy to fit the international
standards by granting her NTR will inadvertently put more pressure on
Laos to further open up economically, socially, and politically.
Thus, we ask that you please submit the US-Laos Bilateral Trade
Agreement to the 108<SUP>th</SUP> Congress for prompt consideration and
passage. Thank you very much.
With hope for the passage of US-Laos NTR,
Souphala Chomsisengphet, Ph.D.,
Economist
Sumit Agarwal, Ph.D.,
Financial Economist
<F-dash>
Commisssion on Security and Cooperation in Europe
Washington, D.C. 20515
April 21, 2003
The Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
1104 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Mr. Chairman:
Thank you for offering us the opportunity to submit comments to the
subcommittee regarding the extension of normal trade relations to the
Republic of Armenia. In our view, Armenia is in compliance with the
freedom of emigration requirements under the Jackson-Vanik Amendment of
the Trade Act of 1974, as it applies to the successor states of the
Soviet Union.
However, the underlying intent of the Jackson-Vanik language is to
foster democratization and protect human rights. As NTR is being
deliberated, there must be a clear message that further political
reforms are expected in Armenia, which committed itself to specific
democratic principles when it joined OSCE over a decade ago. As members
of the U.S. Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, we wish
to raise some specific concerns.
The conduct of the February-March presidential election was quite
disappointing, perpetuating a pattern we hoped had ended.
Unfortunately, as in previous elections, domestic opposition parties
have rejected the official tallies and the OSCE characterized the
election as not having met international standards. Particularly
disturbing was the statement by Defense Minister [and President
Kocharian's campaign manager] Serzh Sarkissian: ``People who have grown
up and lived in Europe cannot understand our mentality. They have their
rules and views on democracy, and we have ours.'' It is essential for
Armenia's democratic prospects and the overcoming of polarization in
society that the upcoming May 25 parliamentary election demonstrate
significant improvements.
In addition, Jehovah's Witnesses continue to be imprisoned as
conscientious objectors, despite the government's pledge to the Council
of Europe to adopt within three years a law allowing for alternative
service and, in the meantime, to free all conscientious objectors from
prison. Since the beginning of this year, seven Jehovah's Witnesses
have received long prison sentences for refusing to perform compulsory
military service, bringing the total number of Witnesses currently
imprisoned to eighteen.
We raise these concerns in the spirit of constructive engagement
with Armenia.
Sincerely,
Benjamin L. Cardin
Commission Member
Christopher H. Smith
Co-Chairman
______
Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe
Washington, D.C. 20515
April 21, 2003
The Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
1104 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Mr. Chairman:
Thank you for offering us the opportunity to submit comments to the
subcommittee regarding the extension of normal trade relations to the
Republic of Moldova. As members of the U.S. Commission on Security and
Cooperation in Europe, we wish to raise some specific areas of concern.
In keeping with the spirit of the Jackson-Vanik Amendment of the
Trade Act of 1974 which is meant to protect and promote human rights,
we believe the United States must continue to make human rights a key
component of the bilateral relationship with Moldova. With respect to
the freedom of emigration requirements under Jackson-Vanik, Moldova has
adopted statutory and administrative procedures that generally accord
its citizens the right to depart and return to the country freely.
However, the Moldovan Government should be encouraged to amend their
law which maintains certain restrictions for potential emigrants upon
whom close relatives are materially dependent.
Moldova continues to be a major source country for trafficked women
to Europe. The Moldovan Government, concerned NGOs and international
organizations are working to eradicate this plague, but such efforts
must be vigorously pursued and be given a very high priority. In
addition, a proposed draft law on ``freedom of speech and religious
organizations'' would limit religious freedom for minority faith
communities in Moldova by denying registration unless a burdensome
threshold concerning the length of time in existence and the number of
participants in the religious group is met.
Finally, we note recent reports prepared by the European Roma
Rights Center concerning discriminatory policies and practices by
Moldovan authorities toward the Romani minority. The Moldovan
Government should be encouraged to ensure that all its citizens are
treated equally before the law.
Mr. Chairman, we appreciate the opportunity to raise these issues
with you and request that these comments be taken into consideration,
as well as additional progress by Moldova on these issues, as you
consider the extension of normal trade relations to the Republic of
Moldova.
With best wishes, we remain
Sincerely,
Benjamin L. Cardin
Commission Member
Christopher H. Smith
Co-Chairman
<F-dash>
Concern Worldwide
Vientiane, Lao PDR
21 April 2003
Ways and Means Committee
House of Representatives
To whom it may concern,
Personal Statement on the extension of NTR to the Lao PDR from Stuart
Highton, Country Director, Concern Laos
I have been living and working in the Lao PDR over the past 4 years
in the capacity of Country Director of Concern Worldwide, an Irish Non
Governmental Organisation (NGO). I would like to add my voice to those
calling for the extension of permanent Normal Trade Relations status to
the Lao PDR.
Concern's mandate throughout the world is to work with and for the
benefit of the poorest--and in Laos that often means with ethnic
minorities. Over the last ten years Concern has worked freely and
unhindered (in partnership with local authorities) carrying out
community development work with ethnic minority communities including
H'mong, Mien, Khmou, Lamet and Katang peoples in five different
provinces. Although we have some concerns regarding certain government
strategies affecting ethnic minorities--for example those associated
with efforts to stabilise slash and burn cultivation or to eliminate
opium production--because of the impact these strategies may have on
fragile livelihoods, in my experience there is certainly no systematic
repression of ethnic minorities. Indeed ethnic minorities are
represented in all levels of government, and I would contend that
compared to some other countries in the region, which do have NTR
status, minorities in the Lao PDR are treated well.
My personal experience is that the Lao government has opened up
considerably in its relations with the development community during the
last four years and now welcomes representatives of civil society from
other countries (such as Concern) to work with all the multi-ethnic
peoples of Laos, and contribute to the genuine poverty alleviation
efforts of the government. As a result of the increasing economic
openness of the government, the country's economy is gradually becoming
more dynamic and market oriented. Small producers, particularly of
ethnic minority handicrafts, are improving the quality of their work;
some of them with the assistance of international NGOs such as Concern.
What these poor people need and deserve is a level playing field to
compete with their neighbours in marketing their produce. It is my
personal sincere belief that by opening up trade between the USA and
the Lao PDR through granting NTR to Laos, Congress would be removing an
anachronistic impediment to the development of the Lao people of all
ethnicity, and would be contributing significantly to the poverty
reduction efforts of the Lao government and their development partners
here in the country. I would urge you to do so.
Yours sincerely,
Stuart Highton
<F-dash>
San Diego, California 92105
April 6, 2003
To: LHonorable Charles Grassley, Chairman, Committee on Finance, United
States Senate.
Honorable William M. Thomas, Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means.
Honorable Philip M. Crane, Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of Ways
and Means Committee,
E-mail: hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
Fax: (202) 225-2610
Honorable:
This letter is to strongly support of granting normal trade
relations status (NTR) to Laos. Laos is the only country in Southeast
Asia that has not got NTR. Currently, US have a very small business
establishment in Laos, comparing to China, Thailand, and Japan. Laos
has established itself to become an important market for US goods and
services when it joined the Association of Southeast Asia Nations
(ASEAN) in 1997. The United States Government should help American
companies grab a bigger share of this market by granting NTR status.
The Lao government is sincerely cooperate with the United States in
the fields of POW/MIA, narcotics control and supports the United States
and the World community to fight against the international terrorism.
Therefore, granting NTR status will demonstrate that the United States
is also committed.
I appreciate very much a joint proposal of Honorable Colin Powell,
Secretary of State and Honorable Robert Zoellick of the USTR, for
granting NTR to Laos.
Your Honorable kind support the proposal and help granting NTR to
Laos will be highly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Jack Congsa
<F-dash>
Consortium of World Education and World Learning
Boston, Massachusetts 02210
April 21, 2003
Rep. Philip M. Crane
Chairman
Subcommittee on Trade,
House Ways and Means Committee
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Rep. Crane:
On behalf of the Consortium of World Education and World Learning,
I commend you and the members of the Ways and Means Committee for your
decision to move ahead with legislation establishing normal trade
relations with the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR). This is
a process that we wholeheartedly support.
World Education is a not-for-profit organization based in Boston.
World Learning is a not-for-profit organization based in Washington.
The Consortium has worked in Laos since 1992, first assisting Lao
refugees returning to Laos from refugee camps in Thailand and now
assisting in the areas of health, vocational training, education,
agriculture, and economic development. The Consortium implements these
programs in seven different provinces, Huaphan, Xieng Khouang,
Vientiane, Sayabouli, Luang Prabang, Savannakhet, and Salavane. The
Consortium staff works and lives in both the provincial capitals and in
the rural areas.
The Consortium strongly supports the decision to establish normal
trade relations with the Lao PDR. It is long overdue. Laos is one of
the poorest countries in Asia. The people who would benefit from the US
funded programs that the Consortium implements would also benefit from
the establishment of normal trade relations. One program in particular,
the USAID-funded Lao Economic Acceleration Program in the Silk Sector
(LEAPSS), requires the availability of an open international market in
order to succeed. The farmers, weavers, and merchants involved in this
program need the normal trade relations in order to export their
handicrafts.
Other direct beneficiaries of normal trade will be Laotians in the
private sector and American investors, who will be able to export not
only Laotian handicrafts, foodstuffs and other products directly to the
United States without going through a third country or paying
prohibitive duty. Laotian-Americans, who know Laotian cultures and
languages and have family and friends in the country, will have
particularly strong opportunities. Normal trade relations with the Lao
PDR will not cost American taxpayers a cent, since the decline in
tariff rates will be more than offset by an increase in the volume of
trade.
Legitimate human rights concerns, including access to health care
and education, and protection from risk of unexploded wartime bombs, as
well as civil and political liberties should and do form a part of US
policy towards the Lao PDR, as with other countries. However, ongoing
human rights issues do not prevent the United States from engaging in
normal trade with other countries in ASEAN or elsewhere in the world
that pose no threat to US interests. There is no logical basis for
arguing that denying freedom to trade improves human rights. What will
lead to improvements is a policy of engagement and respect towards the
Lao PDR that enables the US to play a positive role. Some of the
possibilities in this approach have already been demonstrated in the
areas of development cooperation and religious freedom.
Since his arrival in Vientiane in 2001, Ambassador Douglas Hartwick
has sought, fairly and honestly, to resolve problems and increase
communication in US-Lao PDR relations. His broad-minded diplomacy in US
national interests deserves your encouragement. By approving NTR, the
Congress will send a signal that the United States supports reformers
and internationalists in the Lao PDR government, and that it is
committed to ensuring the continuity and success of the domestic reform
process.
If you have any questions regarding the Consortium programs in Laos
or would like a further comment on any of the above please do not
hesitate to contact me at 802-254-8611.
Sincerely yours,
Connie Woodberry
Senior Program Officer of World Education
Director of the Consortium
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Council of Lao Representatives Abroad--Oceanic Region
NSW 2177 Australia
April 21, 2003
The Council of Lao Representatives Abroad (Oceanic)--Laos Reforms 2003
Report
Submission to US Congressional Forum
Washington D.C.
The Council of Lao Representatives Abroad (Oceanic) hereby formally
submits this report to be tabled at the US Congressional Forum in
Washington DC on the 21<SUP>st</SUP> of April 2003. Concurrently, we
submit this report to other international bodies that have an expressed
interest in the ongoing development of issues relevant not only to Laos
but to the region as a whole. The issues include, but are not limited
to; foreign investment, legal governance, foreign aid, human rights and
religious freedoms.
The first important statement that the Council of Lao
Representatives Abroad wishes to make clear is its desire to promote
open dialogue between itself, the Lao Government and the international
community in an effort to bring forth constructive debate with an aim
of identifying positive solutions to current issues of concern.
The second important statement that the Council of Lao
Representatives Abroad wishes to make clear is its desire to see the
proper implementation of the articles of the Laos constitution as
adopted by the 6<SUP>th</SUP> Session of the People's Supreme Assembly
(2nd Legislature) Vientiane, 13--15 August 1991. The constitution sets
out clear guidelines by which the country should be governed in order
to fulfil the objective of building Laos into a country of peace,
independence, democracy, unity and prosperity.
The Laos constitution reiterates the fundamental principles of the
freedom and democratic rights of the people, which the Lao Government
states openly, ``cannot be violated by anyone''. Clearly, there are
still shortfalls within the system that prevent the effectiveness of
the Laos constitution. We hope the Lao government will make itself more
accessible to respected organisations like the Council of Lao
Representatives Abroad, the United Nations, Amnesty International,
foreign governments and alike, who remain committed to promoting
positive solutions to support the development of Laos, in all respects.
The third important statement that the Council of Lao
Representatives Abroad wishes to make clear is its support of the
United Nations Declaration of Human Rights as Laos so joined the United
Nations in 1955. This agreement remains the basis on which our
freedoms, dignity and rights are clearly defined. They are endowed with
reason and conscience in teaching humans how they should act towards
one another in a spirit of brotherhood. It is important for Laos to
secure its universal and effective recognition and observance, both
among the peoples of world and among the peoples of its jurisdiction.
We would like to see the Lao Government begin to seriously commit
to the promotion of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of the
United Nations as they agreed to promote when becoming a member of the
United Nations in 1955. Particularly, we would like to see the Laos
Government enforce article 5 of the agreement whereby ``No one shall be
subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or
punishment.''
According to various eye-witness reports submitted as recent at
2003 to Amnesty International, which include; reports from the US State
Department, the US Commission for International Religious Freedoms and
other Independent Human Rights organisations, the reports strongly
indicate that some departments within the Lao Government have clearly
violated not only article 5 of the Universal Declaration of Human
Rights of the United Nations but subsequently, a number of articles
contained therein.
In this decade, world opinion has branded the Laos Government as a
one-party authoritarian state that suppresses the human rights and
political rights of its citizens and foreigners alike. Unfortunately,
the Laos Government has been unable to change that opinion and so,
finds itself in the company of rogue states, such as Cuba, Burma and
Vietnam. The Lao Government fails to rule most effectively, mainly
because of its inability to follow the international agreements it
commits to in principle, to upholding. This has contributed to the
serious underdevelopment of the country, which sees Laos as one of the
poorest countries in the world. Access to even very basic health and
education services is limited.
Calls for reform are paramount to the successful development of
Laos in all respects. But clearly, the Government continues to show an
unwillingness to even debates the issues in the world arena.
Isolated examples of breeches to Domestic and International agreements;
1. LViolations of articles 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 29, 30, 31, 37, & 38
of the Laos constitution adopted by the 6<SUP>th</SUP> Session of the
People's Supreme Assembly (2nd Legislature) Vientiane, 13--15 August
1991 (see more detailed information as attached).
2. LInternational Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR),
in accordance with the UN Declaration of Human Rights describes the
fundament right that; those deprived of their liberty shall have the
right to a fair and public hearing within a reasonable time, the right
to prepare a defence and to be assisted by a lawyer, and the right not
to be ill-treated or tortured in detention. The Laos Government signed
on 7 December 2000, in agreement to the ICCPR that the Laos Government
would uphold the agreement in accordance with International law and not
to do anything, which would defeat the object and purpose of the ICCPR.
3. LThe Lao Law concerning Criminal Case proceedings (1989) detail
the procedures which should be followed in arrest, detention, and
criminal prosecutions, but it is clearly and currently evident that
there are many major breeches in this law, which further shows a lack
of willingness or capability of the Laos Government to implement and
follow their own laws.
4. LUN Standard of minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners,
Rule 33. Clearly evidence submitted to various International
authorities (Amnesty International July 2002 Report) shows that the
Laos Government does not uphold the principles of this article.
5. LThe Basic Principles for Treatment of Prisoners (1990) refers
to medical care and that provides the basis on which prisoners are to
be provided with medical aid. Clearly the Laos Government does not
uphold the principles of this article as widespread reports continue to
show violations of this principle. The International Committee for Red
Cross has made numerous attempts to provide support to the prisons in
Laos, but these have consistently been rejected by the Lao Government.
6. LUnited Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights article 9
``No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile.''
Article 10 states ``Everyone is entitled in full equality to a fair and
public hearing by an independent tribunal, in the determination of his
rights and obligations and any criminal charge against him''.
7. LIn 1976 the International Covenant on Civil and Political
Rights 1966 (ICCPR) entered into force. Relevantly, Article 9 of the
ICCPR states ``Everyone has the right to liberty and security of
person. No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest or detention. No
one shall be deprived of his liberty except on such grounds and in
accordance with such procedure as are established by law.'' Anyone who
is arrested shall be informed, at the time of the arrest, of the reason
for his arrest and shall be promptly informed of any charges against
him.
8. LVarious foreign investment laws have been documented as being
subject to extreme prejudice and government interference.
Many examples clearly expose the ineffectiveness of the Laos
Government that fail to uphold and honour the many international
agreements they have signed.
On 7 December 2000, the Laos Government signed the ICCPR. In doing
so, it embraced the principles espoused in the agreement and signalled
to the international community its willingness and intention to
implement the philosophy articulated in the ICCPR. In addition, it is
submitted in Articles 9 and 10 of the Universal Declaration of human
rights and Article 9 of the ICCPR form part of international customary
law. The rights prescribed in those articles are fundamental human
rights. Their recognition is a matter of settled international
practice. States recognise those rights as obligatory by reason of
their fundamental nature: see Federal Republic of Germany v Denmark;
FRG v The Netherlands ICJ Rep 1969 3 at paragraph 77 and per Judge
Lachs.
Despite these serious breeches of international agreements, foreign
governments, aid agencies and the United Nations themselves, do very
little to make accountable the Laos Government.
Reinforcement by US Government of violations
Ambassador Hartwick of the US Embassy in Vientiane Laos recently
stated that the Laos Government ``has treated many of its own people
harshly, trampled on its citizens' individual human rights, and denied
many basic freedoms we Americans cherish.''
This statement further reinforces the view shared by many
throughout the world that the Laos Government does not uphold the
sanctity of human dignity. Many also believe that the Government cannot
be relied upon to abide by agreements that are designed to protect the
interests of both the national and international community. Ambassador
Hartwick acknowledges that many Laotians living abroad, particularly
America, have suffered as a result of the current Laos Government, he
states ``For almost all of you, or your parents, the journey from Laos
to America has not been an easy one. Many of you suffered terribly,
enduring years of hardship and bitterness living under communist rule,
sometimes fighting against them, later facing further pain and
uncertainty in refugee camps in Thailand. I am sure each of you has
personal experiences that are beyond the understanding of most
Americans because of the terrible things you lived through and
witnessed. For those very personal reasons, many of you have deep
suspicions and dislike of the current government in Laos.''
Is it reasonable for the US Government to expect Laotians to
respect the Lao Government when clearly the government does not respect
the people or the laws that are constituted to protect the people?
The US Embassy in Vientiane Laos has recently made known their
intention to push for Normalized Trade Relations between Laos and the
United States. The Council of Lao Representatives Abroad (CLRA) does
not feel confident that the implementation of NTR will have a positive
effect on Laos whilst the Laos government consistently refuses to
uphold and abide by current policies, UN agreements and international
laws. How can the present government be relied upon to honour any such
new agreements? We feel that the Bush Administration would be more
responsible in its approach in proposing NTR to Laos, if they were able
to gain sufficient assurances from the Laos Government that current
policies, UN agreements and international laws would be upheld, and
better promoted in the future. Subsequently; in failing to make notable
progress, the Laos Government should be made accountable by agreeing to
forfeit support from the International Community until such time that
it complied with the principles of the said agreements.
Recommendations
The Council of Lao Representatives Abroad strongly recommends that
governments engaging in violations of international agreements, should
not gain easy access to further trade agreements unless, there is
positive reassurance and accountability to protect the principles of
such agreements. The Lao Government continues to be the subject of
reports that show recent abuses of foreign investors who have been
unlawfully and arbitrary arrested, prolonged in detention.
Subsequently, there have been reports on extreme violations of
religious freedoms, expropriation of foreign investment assets and
serious violations of trade agreements for businesses and joint venture
memorandums.
Since the Lao Government perceives Western governments influential
in the provision of international aid contributions for the development
of Laos, there is an immediate opportunity by them to engage the
government in a process of reform that would end the oppression and
wide scale violations of human rights. Therefore, the Council of Lao
Representatives Abroad makes the following key recommendations to
Western governments who support NTR for Laos; that they;
1. LDesignate that Laos is ``a country of particular concern'' to
make clear that severe violations of human rights exist in Laos;
2. LTo seek from the Laos Government to enforce appropriate legal
processes that promote transparency of foreign investment practices,
policies, monitoring and management;
3. LTo ensure the practical application of International law when
dealing specifically with foreign investment;
4. LTo establish an independent board of enquiry or board of
arbitration where foreign investors can raise urgent concerns that
might have a long term effect on their investment; and that might
suitably advise and implement international law when there has been a
clear breech of their investment agreement; harassment or other
violation that would jeopardize their foreign investment;
5. LTo establish practical solutions to protect the human rights of
all persons in Laos and prevent arbitrary arrest and prolonged
detainment;
6. LTo urge the Laos Government to take specific steps to rectify
concerns raised by international human rights organisations with regard
to human rights violations; and including, the establishment of an
independent monitoring body to conduct random inspections to the
foreigners prison `Phonthong Prison' Vientiane, Laos.
7. LTo urge the Laos Government to uphold the United Nations
Declaration for Human Rights.
Further considerations
When we consider the introduction of new policy, it is the
responsibility of the international community, foreign aid donors and
governments to investigate fully whether or not, current policies are
being adhered too. This establishes the integrity of the applicant. The
Laos Government continues to reveal their inability to function
appropriately and more importantly, to function lawfully when dealing
with foreign investors. For example: there are numerous reported abuses
by Laos authorities to the various Laos Banking resolutions and foreign
investment laws which are designed to protect investors and foreigners
alike. For Laos to prove their integrity, and thus gain the confidence
of the international community they must address their current
commitment to current policies and make accountable those authorities
that violate current laws and legislation.
The Australian government acknowledges that Human rights are an
important element in any foreign policy because the dignity and freedom
of individuals must be preserved and that all Governments should take
effective steps to ensure the promotion of human rights, including
through representations to promote those rights in its dealings with
other countries.
Our nations were dubbed the `Coalition of the willing' in the Iraq
conflict, and yet it seems that in our willingness to engage NTR for
Laos, we fail to make accountable a Regime that publicly and openly
opposes the very principles of democracy that we represent. The
promotion and protection of human rights is important to Lao's National
interests just as the promotion and protection of foreign investor
rights underpin the country's broader economic interests. The Laos
Government unfortunately lacks the ability to embrace such important
aspects of being part of a civilized global society. Likewise, western
governments could do more to address the Laos Government's
inappropriateness but instead, seem to be shackled by diplomacy.
Until the present Laos government shows substantial willingness to
adopt more closely those practices which make us all `civilized'
towards each other, then the Council of Lao Representatives Abroad
cannot support the implementation of NTR in Laos, nor can it endorse
the encouragement for greater foreign investment to Laos. Our
organisation does not dispute that economic development is critical for
improving the quality of life for people in developing countries. The
stability of free and democratic societies can enrich and accelerate
human development by providing standards and direction for social and
economic growth. But let us not be confused about the society we are
discussing. It is not one which is based on democracy that respects the
human rights of citizens and foreigners alike, nor is it one that
respects the rights of foreign investors who are continually subjected
to harassment and illegal expropriation of their valued assets.
Clearly, the Laos Government holds firmly to its communist,
totalitarian regime practices.
The Western World must be realistic about the `non-democratic'
nature of the Laos Government. Similarly, Laos must be realistic in its
current shortcomings if it is to realise its acceptance within the
global community and in particular, the foreign investment community.
As we repeatedly mention in this document, it is vital for
effective foreign policy of any sort to uphold current agreements. It
creates confidence in investors and governments, and thus lends to the
greater opportunity for investment and trade. The Laos Government has
readily agreed to uphold the use of UN mandates as guided by the UN
Commission on Human Rights, foreign investment agreements, as
appropriated by legal entities through Joint Venture agreements but
sadly, the Laos Government continues to fail to uphold the principles
of these agreements.
In the year 2000, a number of foreign investments were illegally
expropriated, unlawfully administered, inappropriately cancelled or
found in breech, as a direct result of Laos Government and ministerial
corruption. The international community namely, the World Bank, IMF and
ADB, failed to rally any support to ensure these investors were granted
their rights for protection through proper international processes
which could effectively determine a lawful resolution to their problem.
Similarly, US Ambassador Hartwick states ``we believe that foreign
investors, who demand fair treatment and decent courts to enforce
contracts, have a real impact in advancing rule of law.''
To the contrary, a number of former foreign investors have made
statements to Amnesty International, the United Nations, US Congress,
the World Court, and like minded organisations that; those investors
who `demanded fair treatment' were either thrown in jail or run out of
town through a series of death threats. The Laos courts do not enforce
contracts or agreements. On some occasions, they have been found to
simply change their own laws to suit themselves. In one such court
proceeding of the year 2001, involving a foreign investor, an Embassy
official witnessed a senior Laos official of the Laos Taxation
Department commit perjury to the court in order to bring about a
conviction against the foreign investor.
There is no system in place to protect the agreements that are
signed between foreign investors and the Laos government. It would be
useful if such world organisations and foreign government
representatives became more pro-active in addressing foreign investor
concerns and indeed concerns from foreigners who have fallen victim to
the corruption of government officials. The need for transparency is
obvious but the World Bank, IMF and ADB seem either unwilling or unable
to support foreign investment in Laos, thus stating that they are only
interested in `those projects that they administer'. How then, can
these institutions hope to receive a positive return on the money `on
loan' to the Laos Government when clearly, foreign investment
protection is vital to economic growth. What can foreign Governments
and International aid agencies do to support foreign investment in
Laos? They can demand transparency and accountability and to ensure
foreign investors have access to a lawful authority, to redress
complaints or make known any harassment they are subjected to, which if
detected early, might prevent the unacceptable loss of their
investment?
In principle, foreign investment is good for Laos but many foreign
companies suffer a range of problems when investment laws are not
enforced, labour laws are not enforced and anti-corruption decrees are
not enforced. The practicalities of doing business in Laos are
undermined daily.
Foreign Embassy's promote Bilateral Trade Agreements as a form of
protection for investors but in reality, such agreements do not provide
such protection. A clear example of this is the case of Kerry and Kay
Danes of Australia. The Security Manager and his wife were unlawfully
detained in prison for nearly one year. The Australian Government
declared them `unofficial hostages' in a major foreign investment
expropriation wrought by the Lao Government. The bi-lateral trade
agreement between the two countries did not deter the Lao Government
from ill-treating the Australian couple, nor did it prevent their
unlawful detainment for almost a year in sub-humane conditions, nor did
it enable the couple to a fair hearing in a court, or the right to
defend themselves through a proper legal process, or to seek redress in
an International court following their departure from the country which
would have resulted in the restoration of their name and reputation. As
with the Danes case, there have been many other reports that suggest a
serious problem with foreign investment in Laos. There is clearly an
inability of foreign government agencies and donor organisations to
provide any significant protection.
There is no denying that NTR would be a wonderful opportunity for
Laos as would greater foreign investment be. Both would enable the
local private sector businesses, entrepreneurs, and workers to benefit
in the world market place, and consequently raise their standard of
living. But the Laos Government has proved itself unreliable as has the
international community in providing appropriate support to foreign
investors. The issues that are of concern are not limited to foreign
investment or human rights. Recently, the US Government promoted ideas
that they have made `uneven progress' in promoting democracy and human
rights in Laos, and in particular, to religious freedoms. The report
February 2003 released by the US Commission on International Religious
Freedoms, however, calls for the US Government to designate Laos as a
`country of particular concern', and to make clear US Concerns over
particularly severe violations of religious freedoms in Laos. All
throughout the report, there is significant suggestion by the US
Commission that Laos is no closer than they were twenty-eight years
ago, to observing religious freedoms as defined in the International
Religious Freedom Act of 1998 (IRFA).
As with many agreements signed by the Laos Government, and those
ending in dispute, the excuse is consistent. The Laos Government claims
in most all cases, to have misinterpreted the English language and
translation. Likewise, the analysis of the decree of the Administration
and Protection of Religious Activities in Lao PDR, in its English
translation reveals several troublesome aspects that may in fact lead
to further violations of religious freedoms. This is one important
example that also leads to concern for NTR and foreign investment in
Laos. Many investment documents that are written in both languages,
decree's and laws as set out by the Laos Government, the effective
implementation of such unravels with the interpretation as set in the
English language.
There are those like Ambassador Hartwick who speak eloquently about
the US government's willingness to promote Human rights in Laos through
the implementation of NTR. But the practical aspects of introducing NTR
are still not clearly explained. Considering NTR is possible, what
steps does the US Government propose to alleviate the increased
departmental corruption which will result in the introduction of NTR?
It is clear that with the proposed introduction of any new policy there
must be strong consideration to accountability of that policy and the
effectiveness of the government to properly administer the policy. All
such trade agreements and human rights agreements must have protective
provisions attached as a necessity to ensure the integrity,
transparency and adherence to rule of law.
The Council of Lao Representatives Abroad do not feel that the Lao
Government has the appropriate level of knowledge, experience,
motivation or integrity to uphold yet another `serious' agreement. As
such, we recommend:
1. Lthat this issue of NTR be further debated;
2. Lthe issues of human rights be seriously enforced according to
the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights;
3. Lthe US Government and like-minded governments and organisations
provide clear recommendations and workable solutions to ensure the
reliability of the applicants, in this case, the Laos government;
4. Lthat the international community focus more on and strongly
encourage such regimes to uphold the principles of the international
agreements they sign, in accordance to International law;
5. Lthat the international community call for reforms in all
respects and that the Laos Government agree to establish an independent
board of arbitration, as mentioned in this document, to protect the
broader interests of all future foreign investors to Laos;
6. LThat the United Nations encourages greater reforms and
accountability amongst countries that sign in agreement to their
mandates.
Kat Ditthavong
Deputy Secretary General
The Council of Lao Representatives Abroad--Oceanic Region
______
Attached;
Annex A
Violations of articles of the Laos constitution.
Annex A
The following are only limited examples of the violations of
articles 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 29, 30, 31, 37, & 38 of the Laos
constitution adopted by the 6<SUP>th</SUP> Session of the People's
Supreme Assembly (2nd Legislature) Vientiane, 13-15 August 1991
Article 2. The state of the Lao People's Democratic Republic is a
People's Democratic State. All powers are of the people, by the people
and for the interests of the multi-ethnic people of all strata in
society with the workers, farmers and intellectuals as key components.
Article 4. The National Assembly is the organisation of the
people's representatives. The election of members of the National
Assembly shall be carried out through the principles of universal,
equal and direct suffrage, and secret balloting. Voters have the right
to propose the dismissal of their own representatives if they are found
to behave unfit to their honour and to lose the people's confidence.
Article 5. The National Assembly and all other state organisations
are established and function in accordance with the principle of
democratic centralism.
Article 6. The state protects the freedom and democratic rights of
the people which cannot be violated by anyone. All state organisations
and functionaries must popularise and propagate all policies,
regulations and laws among the people and, together with the people,
organise their implementations in order to guarantee the legitimate
rights and interests of the people. All acts of bureaucratism and
harassment that can be physically harmful to the people and detrimental
to their honour, lives, consciences and property are prohibited.
Article 8. The state pursues the policy of promoting unity and
equality among all ethnic groups. All ethnic groups have the rights to
protect, preserve, and promote the fine customs and cultures of their
own tribes and of the nation. All acts of creating division and
discrimination among ethnic groups are prohibited. The state implements
every measure to gradually develop and upgrade the levels of socio-
economy of all ethnic groups.
Article 9. The state respects and protects all lawful activities of
the Buddhists and of other religious followers mobilises and encourages
the Buddhist monks and novices as well as the priests of other
religions to participate in the activities which are beneficial to the
country and people. All acts of creating division of religions and
classes of people are prohibited.
Article 29. The right of Lao citizens in their bodies and houses
are inviolable. Lao citizens cannot be arrested or searched without
warrant or approval of the authorized organisations, except in the
cases as prescribed by law.
Article 30. Lao citizens have the right and freedom to believe or
not to believe in religions.
Article 31. Lao citizens have the right and freedom of speech,
press and assembly; and have the right to set up associations and to
stage demonstrations which are not contrary to the law.
Article 37. The aliens and persons having no nationality have the
right to enjoy their rights and freedom protected by the provisions of
laws of the Lao People's Democratic Republic. They have the right to
lodge petitions with courts and other organisations concerned of the
Lao People's Democratic Republic and the obligations to respect the
Constitution and laws of the Lao People's Democratic Republic.
Article 38. The Lao People's Democratic Republic grants asylum to
foreigners who are persecuted for their struggle for freedom, justice,
peace and scientific causes.
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Montpellier, France,
Rodez, France,
Le Vigan, France,
Montpellier, France,
Mende, France
to: Honourable E. Grassley, Honourable Charles B. Rangel, Honourable
Max Baucus, Honourable Philip M. Crane, Honourable John McCain,
Honourable William M. Thomas,
Honourables,
We are a group of physicians of lao origine residing in France
having learned with great satisfaction that Mr Collin Powell and Mr
Robert Zoellict conjointly had send a letter to the Comittee of Finance
of the United states senate to request the approval of an agreement
between the Lao's people democratic republic and the United states of
America on trade relations with NTR. We would like to express our
support to the approval of the bilateral agreement on trade relations.
Vongsouthi Cyrille, MD
Souk-Aloun Jocelin, MD
Souk-Aloun Phou, MD
Amphonesinh Sengphet, MD
Phothirath Khamsing, MD
<F-dash>
Stamford, Connecticut 06902
Dear Congressman Philip M Crane, Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of
the Committee on Ways and Means:
I wholeheartedly support the initiative for the US NTR to Laos.
Copy faxed to (202) 225-2610
Kristin Dacey
<F-dash>
Washington, D.C. 20036
April 11, 2003
The Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman,
Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Chairman Crane,
I am writing to express my strong support for extension of Normal
Trade Relations (NTR) for Laos. My views are informed by my research on
Laos as a Fellow at the Brookings Institution; my experience as The
Asia Foundation Representative for Laos (1988-90); and my experience as
a Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Human Rights (1993-97). I
believe that extending NTR will benefit the people of Laos, US-Laotian
relations, and broader US policy in Southeast Asia.
Laos is subject to unfortunate extremes. Half the population lives
below the government's own defined poverty line. Laos has the lowest
life expectancy in Southeast Asia, and the highest fertility rate. It
has the highest adult illiteracy rate in the region, particularly among
women. Laos holds another dubious record, of having more ordnance
dropped on it by the United States during the ``Secret War'' of the
1960's and 1970's than were used on Germany and Japan combined in World
War II. These woeful distinctions make it all the more inexplicable
that the United States withholds NTR from Laos, as it does for only
four countries. Worse, analysis released by the Progressive Policy
Institute indicates that Laos faces the highest average tariffs in the
world, at 45.3%, exceeding those of North Korea (35%). This makes no
political, economic or geostrategic sense.
Under these circumstances, it is self-evident that extending NTR to
Laos will increase two-way trade between the two countries and
stimulate economic growth in Laos. However, I believe there are other
benefits as well. First, NTR will be a significant factor in improving
relations between the people of Laos and the Laotian-American
community. In contrast to Vietnam and Cambodia, both of which benefit
from technical expertise and funds from their overseas communities,
Laos has been less able to call upon its diaspora for crucial
assistance in economic development and market reform. Second, NTR for
Laos will help the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) move
toward its longstanding goal of regional economic integration, an
objective that has been made more difficult with the incorporation of
the four new states (Laos, Burma, Vietnam and Cambodia) in the late
1990's. If ASEAN is able to harmonize its economies, it is less likely
to suffer a dramatic downturn, such as the one it experienced in the
1997-98 Asian economic crisis.
Lastly, extending NTR to Laos will further the US goal of
developing a ``hub-and-spokes'' system of free trade agreements with
Southeast Asian nations, articulated in the President's announcement of
the Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative last October. In this laddered
process, granting NTR for Laos will enable that country to step onto
the first rung. Every Asian and Pacific power--including China, Japan
and India--has offered ASEAN a free trade agreement of some kind. China
has in fact included an ``early harvest'' clause in its agreement, to
provide funds to the poorer ASEAN countries in the early years of
implementation. NTR for Laos could provide an ``early harvest'' from
the United States, helping to sustain Laos while it reforms its
economic system to benefit from international trade regimes.
As a former USG human rights official, I am mindful that Laos'
human rights record does not meet the standards of a liberal democracy
at this time. In my estimation, however, human rights improvement in
Laos is quite possible, but it is likely to follow the incremental path
and pace of several other Asian countries. I have observed a cautious
liberalization process over the past decade in Laos, with greater
personal freedoms in comparison to the 1970's and early 1980's. The
State Department's human rights report for Laos notes improvements in
religious freedom, as did Assistant Secretary Craner in his March 31
press conference on the reports. While there is no established, iron-
clad link between economic growth and political liberalization, there
is growing evidence that progress on the economic side creates greater
demand for openness in both societies and governments. I believe that
will be the case in Laos as well. However, I can state with absolute
certainty that withholding NTR from Laos will do nothing to improve
human rights in the country.
Lastly, I would like to commend Secretary Powell and USTR Zoellick
for their leadership in requesting that Congress grant NTR to Laos, and
the Subcommittee for its call for public comment. In every sense,
extension of Normal Trade Relations to Laos is long overdue. I hope
that the Subcommittee and Congress will make every effort to correct
this situation at the earliest opportunity.
Sincerely,
Catharin E. Dalpino
Fellow,
Foreign Policy Studies
The Brookings Institution
<F-dash>
Columbia, Maryland 21045
April 21, 2003
To: LHonorable Charles Grassley, Chairman, Committee on Finance, United
States Senate.
Honorable William M. Thomas, Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means.
Honorable Philip M. Crane, Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of Ways
and Means Committee,
E-mail: hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
Fax: (202) 225-2610
Honorable:
This letter is in strong support of granting normal trade relation
status (NTR) to the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Laos).
After more than twenty years in their new country, many Laotian-
Americans still have a need for goods and services that used to be part
of their daily lives back in their motherland. These goods, which
include arts and crafts, agricultural products and canned food items,
are unavailable to Laotian-Americans here in the United States. Many
Laotian-American entrepreneurs see this as a promising job and business
opportunity. Granting NTR status to Laos will allow these entrepreneurs
to pursue their ideas.
American businesses will also benefit from granting of NTR.
Currently, US have a very small business establishment in Laos,
compares to China, Thailand, and Japan. NTR will encourage and allow a
greater presence of US companies in this country. Laos has established
itself to become an important market for US goods and services when it
joined the Association of Southeast Asia Nations (ASEAN) in 1997. The
United States Government should help American companies grab a bigger
share of this market by granting NTR status.
NTR status will help strengthen good understanding between the
governments and peoples of the United States and Laos. Cooperation on
POW/MIA, narcotics control and terrorist issues indicate that Laos is
committed to building a better relationship with the United States.
Granting NTR status will demonstrate that the United States is also
committed.
I appreciate very much a joint proposal of Honorable Colin Powell,
Secretary of State and Honorable Robert Zoellick of the USTR, for
granting NTR to Laos.
I should appreciate if you could kindly support the proposal in
granting NTR to Laos.
Sincerely,
Bao Dang
<F-dash>
Fort Worth, Texas 76179
March 24, 2003
To: LHonorable Charles Grassley, Chairman, Committee on Finance, United
States Senate.
Honorable William M. Thomas, Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means.
Honorable Philip M. Crane, Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of Ways
and Means Committee,
E-mail: hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
Fax: (202) 225-2610
Honorable:
This letter is in strong support of granting normal trade relation
status (NTR) to the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Laos).
After more than twenty years in their new country, many Laotian-
Americans still have a need for goods and services that used to be part
of their daily lives back in their motherland. These goods, which
include arts and crafts, agricultural products and canned food items,
are unavailable to Laotian-Americans here in the United States. Many
Laotian-American entrepreneurs see this as a promising job and business
opportunity. Granting NTR status to Laos will allow these entrepreneurs
to pursue their ideas.
American businesses will also benefit from granting of NTR.
Currently, US have a very small business establishment in Laos,
compares to China, Thailand, and Japan. NTR will encourage and allow a
greater presence of US companies in this country. Laos has established
itself to become an important market for US goods and services when it
joined the Association of Southeast Asia Nations (ASEAN) in 1997. The
United States Government should help American companies grab a bigger
share of this market by granting NTR status.
NTR status will help strengthen good understanding between the
governments and peoples of the United States and Laos. Cooperation on
POW/MIA, narcotics control and terrorist issues indicate that Laos is
committed to building a better relationship with the United States.
Granting NTR status will demonstrate that the United States is also
committed.
I appreciate very much a joint proposal of Honorable Colin Powell,
Secretary of State and Honorable Robert Zoellick of the USTR, for
granting NTR to Laos.
I should appreciate if you could kindly support the proposal in
granting NTR to Laos.
Sincerely,
Chansamone Darapheth
<F-dash>
Toledo, Ohio 43635
Dear Senator Grassley,
As the brother of America's longest held acknowledged(photographed
in a Pathet Lao prison) civilian prisoner in Laos since 5 September
1963, I support the granting of Normal Trade Relations(NTR) to Laos
provided the following conditions are met: 1. The immediate release of
my brother or a verifiable accounting of his current fate and
whereabouts including the written dossier concerning my brother that
the Lao have in their possession, 2.continued improvement of relations
concerning the finding and identification of ALL POWs/MIAs, 3. halting
of human rights violations especially concerning the Hmong in their
country, and 4. Continued improvement in narcotics control and fighting
international terrorism. Laos, a very poor country, is a member of
ASEAN. NTR would assist them in playing a larger role in worldwide
affairs but the above issues still remain outstanding.
Thank you.
Jerry DeBruin, Ph.D.
<F-dash>
Washington, D.C. 20036
The Honorable Phillip Crane
Chairman
Subcommittee on Trade of the Committee on Ways and Means
US House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Mr. Chairman,
My name is Andrew Durant. I am the Managing Director of Samuels
International, a Washington, DC-based consultancy. I have been active
in trade and political matters related to Southeast Asia for more than
15 years.
In this capacity, I am writing to express my support for the
passage of legislation to provide products from the Lao People's
Democratic Republic with normal trade relations.
In light of the progress that has taken place, we believe that the
provision of normal trade relations will enhance the economic and civil
development of the country.
Sincerely yours,
Andrew G. Durant
<F-dash>
New York, New York 10024
To:
LRepresentative Charles Crane, Chairman subcommittee on trade of
the Committee on Ways and Means
TO: hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
CC: laontr@ffrd.org
FAX: 202 225-2610
Congresspeople:
I am writing to voice my support for Normal Trade Relations (NTR)
with Laos, one of the world's least developed countries. I urge you to
pass the necessary legislation to extend NTR to Laos and bring into
force the bilateral trade agreements concluded in 1997.
NTR will benefit both the US and Laos. Increased trade between our
two countries will lead to greater economic opportunities and swifter
economic development in Laos, directly improving people's lives and
living standards and also reinforcing the alternative economic
development opportunities in anti-narcotics efforts. Greater cultural
and human cooperation will encourage more openness, which I believe
will accelerate the positive changes achieved over the past few years.
Laos is a member of ASEAN, an organization with which the US is
working to strengthen regional stability as part of the ASEAN
Initiative. As such, Laos should have the benefit of NTR as does its
neighbors and fellow ASEAN members. And normalized trade relations with
the US will be a big first step to further integrate Laos into the
world trade system.
Thank you.
Joanne Edgar
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Vientiane, Lao PDR
17 April 2003
fax: 202-225-2610
The Honorable Philip M. Crane, Chairman
Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Chairman Crane,
I am writing to add my support for the House bill which will
establish NTR with Laos. This is in concurrence with the
recommendations of the State Department and Sec. Colin Powell, as well
as that of Ambassador to Laos Mr. Douglas Hartwick.
I am an American citizen, and have worked in Laos for almost 3
years, as Country Director of the oldest continuously serving INGO in
the country, Quaker Service in Laos, which is a project of American
Friends Service Committee. Laos, as you know, is a small, land-locked
country of some 5 million people, and is one of the poorest countries
in Asia, with a per capita income estimated at $290 per year.
It maintains friendly relations with the U.S., as well as its
neighbors in the region, and is a member of ASEAN. It has maintained
continuous diplomatic ties with the U.S., in spite of the fact that it
is reported to have been the most heavily bombed country in the world,
by U.S. airpower, in a 'secret war' up to 1973. That war left enormous
quantities of UXO, which to this day still kill and maim people in
remote villages, as well as remnants of Agent Orange. It has cooperated
with U.S. requests to find the remains of MIAs from the Indochina War,
and continues to assist U.S. efforts to eliminate opium production.
I have traveled to remote parts of the country where our work is
done, and have seen the needs of the country first hand. Medical care,
educational facilities, and jobs are greatly wanting. This is not a
technologically sophisticated country; to improve its standard of
living, trade in basic materials, such as garments, furniture,
handicrafts, etc. must be encouraged. Yet, the U.S. imposes an average
tariff of 45.3%, compared to a global average of 2.4%; silk dresses,
one of the principal commodities produced in Laos, are taxed at 65%,
compared to 7% for Vietnam, Cambodia and China. This fact is a clear
hindrance to the development of the economy.
I have gotten to know many Lao nationals, and I find that they have
a strong liking and deep regard for the American people. I have also
gotten to know many diplomats, American Embassy staff, expatriate staff
in other INGOs, and expatriate business people, and I have not found
any who would not take the same position as myself in encouraging the
establishment of Normal Trade Relations with the U.S.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
John Ferchak, Ph.D.,
Country Director
Quaker Service in Laos
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Fraternite France-Laos
330120 Le Vigan, France
Association Le Frangipanier
48000 Mende, France March 26, 2003
To:
LHonourable Philip M. Crane, Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of
the Committee on Ways and Means, House of representatives
Fax: 202 225 2610
Honourable Philippe M. Crane,
We are two humanitarian non governmental organizations of Laotians
in France (Fraternite France-Laos, Association Le Frangipanier; we have
learned with great satisfaction that a letter jointly signed by Mr
Collin Power and Mr Robert Zoellict has been sent to the Committee on
Finance, United states senate, and to the Committee on ways and means,
House of representatives, to request the approval of an agreement
between the Lao people's democratic republic and the United states of
America on trade relations with a disposition on NTR. We are for that
reason would like to express our great appreciation and sincere
congratulation to the US government for its appropriate decision to
support the approval of the bilateral Agreement on trade relations. We
are convinced that the bilateral Agreement on trade relations will
contribute to the enhancement of relations between our two countries
and the deepening of the mutual understanding of our peoples. We
therefore would like to call upon your very kind support and request
that the Agreement between the Lao people's democratic republic and the
United states of America on trade relations be approved by the Senate.
Phoungeun Souk-Aloun, MD,
chairman Fraternite France-Laos
Khamsing Phothirath,MD,
chairman Association Le Frangipanier
<F-dash>
Global Advance Technology, Inc.
Wichita, Kansas 67210
I want to take this opportunity to introduce my self and my company
and the Lao Buddhist Association of Kansas.
My name is Khamphoui Manyseng. I am U.S. citizen and businees owner
and Board of Director of Wichita Chamber of Commerce base in Wichita,
Kansas, I am writing this letter on behalf of my employees, my fellows
Laotian American in Wichita and Cities around and my family. I
wholeheartedly support the joint proposal of Honorable Colin L. Powell,
State Secretary and Honorable Robert B. Zoellick, U.S. Trade Rep. in
granting teh permanent NTR to the Lao PDR.
The Lao PDR is only country in the area that haven't got such
Agreement yet although its politico-Social situation are far better
than others.
I would like to thank you very much for your kind and cooperation.
Sincerely yours,
Khamphoui Manyseng
President & Owner
Global Advance Technology, Inc.
<F-dash>
Washington, D.C. 20515
April 11, 2003
The Honorable Phil Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Chairman Crane:
We write today to implore you to take no further steps toward
granting Normal Trade Relations (NTR) status to the Lao People's
Democratic Republic (LPDR). We respectfully assert that granting NTR to
Laos at this time would in fact represent an ill-conceived reward for
the consistently dreadful behavior the LPDR regime has exhibited in
recent years at home, abroad, and in its bilateral relations with the
United States. We offer the following seven facts as evidence the LPDR
has not yet earned such an upgrade in its trade status.
1. Two U.S. citizens remain missing after disappearing at the
Laotian border in 1999. The LPDR government has been uncooperative in
its dealings
with U.S. authorities working to investigate their case, and the LPDR
government may have been involved in the disappearance itself.
According to American eyewitnesses, U.S. citizens Houa Ly and Michael
Vang went missing on April 19, 1999 after having last been seen with
Lao government authorities near the Laos-Thailand border. U.S.
investigators have since pursued the case, but the State Department has
acknowledged a lack of cooperation by the LPDR in the investigation,
stating in November 1999 that the Lao government ``has been slow to
respond to our requests for access to the area and has tried to place
restrictions on our investigators.'' In July of 1999, staff members of
the Senate Foreign Relations Committee traveled to Laos and received
information on the case from what they characterized as a ``very
credible source.'' The staff report filed after the trip states that,
``with a great degree of detail, the tip we received corroborated
Hmong-American suspicions that the men in fact crossed into Laos and
that the government of Laos captured and killed Messrs. Vang and Ly.''
2. As documented in this year's State Department Report on Human
Rights Practices, the LPDR continues to be one of the world's most
reprehensible abusers of human rights--with a repertoire that includes
torture, harsh restrictions on the press and free speech, and
imprisonment of
people for their religious beliefs. The report speaks for itself,
stating that last year: ``The (Lao) Government's human rights record
remained poor, and it continued to commit serious abuses. Citizens do
not have the right to change their government. Members of the security
forces abused detainees, especially those suspected of insurgent or
antigovernment activity. Prisoners were abused and tortured, and prison
conditions generally are extremely harsh and life threatening--The
judiciary was subject to executive, legislative, and LPRP influence,
was corrupt, and did not ensure citizens due process. The Government
infringed on citizens' privacy rights. The Government restricted
freedom of speech, the press, assembly, and association. The Government
continued to restrict freedom of religion, and police and provincial
authorities arrested and detained more than 60 members of Christian
churches, with 4 members of religious communities in custody or
incarcerated for their religious beliefs at year's end.'' These
appalling human rights abuses are of particular concern in the so-
called ``Saysamboun Special Zone'' in Laos, where reports of LPDR
military offenses against ethnic minorities are common and disturbing.
Finally, it is important to note that independent human rights
monitoring organizations such as Amnesty International continue to be
barred from entering Laos by the LPDR government.
3. The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom this year
called Laos one of the world's worst violators of religious freedom,
stating
that forced renunciations of faith and imprisonment of people for
their religious beliefs are tragically frequent. In its 2003 report to
the president and Congress, the commission urged the Bush
administration to name Laos a ``Country of Particular Concern,'' which
would place it in the company of such terrifying regimes as Iraq,
Sudan, Burma and North Korea. According to the commission's report,
``for at least the last several years, the government of Laos has
engaged in particularly severe violations of religious freedom--these
include the arrest and prolonged detention and imprisonment of members
of religious minorities on account of their religious activities, as
well as instances where Lao officials have forced Christians to
renounce their faith. Between 100 and 200 individuals have been
arrested since 1999. At the same time, dozens of churches have been
closed. These violations have continued to be committed in the past
year . . .''
4. Shockingly, the LPDR continues to foster close ties with Kim
Jong-Il's
Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK)--stating less than two
years ago that relations ``of friendship and cooperation'' between
Laos and
the North Korean pariah state ``are steadily growing stronger,'' and
congratulating the North Korean people ``on the shining successes made
in
their efforts to build a powerful nation . . . under the wise
leadership of
Kim Jong-Il.'' In a joint communique issued July 17, 2001 by the
leadership of the LPDR and DPRK, the North Korean government also
commended the Lao government for the ``great successes made in their
efforts to consolidate and develop the people's democratic system and
estimated the daily rising role and position of the LPDR.''
5. The LPDR recently held state-sanctioned rallies speaking out
against
U.S. military action in Iraq in the most inflammatory of terms--
stating that
``the war will bring disaster to the whole of humanity,'' and
``demand(ing)
the U.S. respect the peace and sovereignty of Iraq.'' These and other
similarly belligerent comments were transmitted throughout Laos on
state-run radio and around the globe through various media services.
6. A substantial majority of Laotian-Americans--many of whom know,
first-hand, the brutality meted out by the LPDR regime--are strongly
opposed to offering NTR to Laos. These people, many of whom are Hmong-
Americans who assisted the United States military during the Vietnam
War, view the offer of NTR to the government of Laos as a fundamental
betrayal of not only them personally, but of our American principles.
According to the most recent census, there are approximately 170,000
Hmong living in the United States. An almost equal number of Lao live
in the United States as well.
7. Although some argue that Laos presents a potentially lucrative
market
for U.S. companies, the facts show otherwise. While proponents of
improved trade relations with Laos claim that the potential economic
benefits outweigh the significant moral questions about Laos as a
trading partner, the truth is that the LPDR's Gross Domestic Product in
2001 was estimated to be $9.2 billion. For comparison, the Gross
Municipal Product of Fort Wayne, Indiana in 2001 was more than double
that amount: $18.8 billion. Laos' authoritarian internal economic
policies, not a lack of trade with the United States, has created this
dismal reality. Without substantial change in those policies, neither
the people of Laos nor the United States will ever benefit economically
from NTR.
This letter should not be interpreted as a statement that we
believe the door to NTR for Laos should be shut forever. In our
opinion, however, Laos has failed miserably to demonstrate that it is
ready for or deserves NTR at this time. In fact, in the six years since
the negotiation of the U.S.-LPDR bilateral trade agreement, the Lao
regime's record on basic issues like those mentioned above has actually
become worse, not better.
We believe that if, over the next few years, the LPDR government is
able to successfully demonstrate concrete improvements in these areas
of concern, consideration of NTR for Laos may be appropriate. Until
then, however, we should send a strong message to the LPDR regime that
economic rewards from the United States will not be forthcoming unless
it can improve its abysmal record.
Sincerely,
The Honorable Mark Green
Member of Congress
The Honorable George Radanovich
Member of Congress
<F-dash>
Washington, D.C. 20002
To:
Congressman Philip M Crane, Chairman,
Subcommittee on Trade of the Committee on Ways and Means
Dear Congressman:
I would like to strongly urge you to support the initiative for the
U.S. NTR to Laos. Normalizing trade relations with Laos would be an
important further step in supporting the region and their economic
growth as a whole.
I have traveled much in developing countries and the one item which
strikes me is how most people in these countries have relatives in the
U.S. From cab drivers in Addis Ababa to Korean flower vendors.
Strengthening these ties between our immigrant community and their
country of origin not only serves as a means of providing economic
benefit to the country, but likewise reflects in establishing respect
for the United States in these countries. I urge you to support the
efforts and therefore strenghten our links to Laos. It makes economic
sense and it makes diplomatic sense.
Thank you for considering this expression of my support.
Geoffrey Greenwell
<F-dash>
Bethesda, Maryland 20816
To: House Ways and Means Committee
From: Pamela Griffin
I am writing in order to support Normal Trade Relations between the
United States and Laos. Economic stability in this region is vital, and
any minor objections by a few vocal opponents are far outweighed by the
need to finally put into effect the 1997 agreement to normalize be-
lateral relations. In my view, there is no significant reason why Laos
should not join Vietnam and Cambodia in receiving this status.
Thank you for making possible the Normalization of Trade Relations
between the United States and Laos immediately.
Sincerely,
Pamela Griffin
<F-dash>
Arlington, Virginia 22201
April 16, 2003
The Honorable Phil Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
Ways and Means Committee
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
FAX 202-225-2610
Dear Mr. Chairman:
On behalf of the Vietnam War POW/MIA families, I am writing in
strong support of NTR for Laos. Acting on a favorable position
established earlier by our voting members, the League's elected Board
of Directors has consistently supported this long-overdue step between
the United States and Laos.
Since first visiting Laos in 1982, I have worked closely with
senior Lao and U.S. officials, both in Vientiane and in Washington. I
last visited Laos in February of this year, as head of a small
delegation that included League Chairman of the Board Jo Anne Shirley
and Policy Advisor Richard T. Childress, a Vietnam War veteran who
served for eight years as Director of Asian Affairs, National Security
Council, during both Reagan Administrations. As expected, we found
serious cooperation and support by the Lao. Our consistent testimony
before your Subcommittee, last given in 1999, was also in support of
NTR for Laos.
A Bilateral Trade Agreement was initialed in 1998, yet favorable
action by Congress to on that agreement and NTR for Laos still lags.
Ironically, now that Vietnam, Cambodia and even Burma (Myanmar) have
been approved, Laos is the only ASEAN country that does not have normal
trade relations with the United States. Even more illogical is that
Laos is joined by only two countries in the world without NTR, Cuba and
North Korea. It is difficult to justify to Lao officials why this
situation has not been rectified.
The Lao Government and people have continuously improved their
already significant cooperation on POW/MIA accounting, and though much
remains to be done, we have confidence that further requests by the
U.S. will also meet with positive responses. Laos has also cooperated
well in bilateral and multinational efforts to stem narcotics
production and trafficking. The Lao leadership has made difficult
decisions required to address human rights, religious freedom and to
develop their country's economy for the betterment of the Lao people.
Failure to reinforce such positive steps can seriously undercut the
prospect of further progress in achieving Lao and U.S. objectives. Now
is not the time to cause nations to turn away from the United States,
particularly those that demonstrated early and, to the extent of their
capacity, full support for our fight against international terrorism.
It is our sincere hope that you will vote to approve NTR to
reinforce the positive steps Laos has taken to address bilateral
issues, especially POW/MIA accounting. Other U.S. priority concerns are
also more likely to continue improving with favorable action by
Congress on NTR.
Respectfully,
Ann Mills Griffiths
Executive Director
cc: Deputy Secretary of State
Deputy Secretary of Defense
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Vientiane, Lao PDR
April 19, 2003
Congressman Philip M. Crane, Chairman
Subcommittee on Trade of the Committee on Ways and Means
hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
Fax: (202) 225-2610
Dear Sir:
I am writing in response to your request for written public
comments regarding the extension of normal trade relations (NTR) status
to the products of Laos.
I am an American citizen who has lived and worked in Lao PDR since
1996 with a U.S.-based international non-government organization. I
encourage you to grant permanent NTR status to Laos and to enact the
1997 bilateral trade agreement for Congress to enact legislation
amending the HTS to strike Laos permanently from General Note 3(b). I
believe this agreement will represent an important step toward economic
reform and openness, which are key U.S. priorities in Laos. A more
prosperous Laos is in the U.S. interest
The opinions I have expressed here are personal and do not intend
to represent an official position by my employer.
Sincerely,
Troy Hansel
Associate Conservationist
WCS--Lao Country Program
<F-dash>
Health Frontiers
Kenyon, Minnesota 55946
April 11, 2003
Congressman Philip Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
Ways and Means Committee
US House of Representatives
Washington, DC
Dear Congressman Crane:
We are writing to express the support of Health Frontiers for the
proposal to grant permanent Normal Trade Relations (NTR) status to
Laos, and to enact the 1997 bilateral trade agreement between Laos and
the United States.
Health Frontiers is an all-volunteer non-profit organization, which
has enabled hundreds of volunteer faculty physicians from many US
institutions to be helpful to the destitute Medical School in Laos over
the past dozen years. They have helped the Lao faculty to launch an
intensive three-year residency training program in pediatrics and
internal medicine. These are the first full-time postgraduate medical
education programs in the history of the country, and they have already
graduated fourteen new Lao pediatricians.
Throughout these twelve years, we have been able to confirm that
Laos, though still a communist country, no longer fits its earlier
reputation as the cruel dictatorship that terrorized and killed so many
of its own people. Laos is now one of the more peaceful places on
earth, daily welcoming planeloads of visiting Lao-Americans and
international tourists. It is also one of the least developed countries
in Asia, with enormous potential for NTR to spur productive trade. The
positive changes in Laos have coincided with its efforts since 1989 to
open up to the rest of the world. There can be little doubt that NTR
would accelerate these positive changes, both economically and
politically.
We wish you and your colleagues much wisdom as you consider this
matter, and we trust the Congress will be able to grant NTR status for
Laos at this time.
Sincerely yours,
Karen Olness, MD
Medical Director
Hakon Torjesen
President
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Health Frontiers
Vientiane, Lao Peoples' Democratic Republic
April 16, 2003
Normal Trade Relations with Laos
Public Comment Submitted to the Subcommittee of Trade of the Committee
on Ways and Means
We urge that the U.S. Government grant normal trade relations
status to the products of Laos. Our comments are based upon the
understanding we have gained from our experiences and what we have
witnessed in Laos over the previous five years.
I came here to photograph the people.
Looking at the state of the people in the photographs has brought
both of us back to Laos; wanting to do everything we could to help the
people. We now work with the Faculty of Medical Sciences National
University of Laos, the teaching hospitals, and the Ministry of Health.
We travel to the provinces with medical residents and to deliver
medical supplies. Everywhere we go, we see the effects of poverty and
malnutrition.
We also see the devastation from unexploded ordinance dropped from
bombers during the Vietnam War and how it continues to haunt the people
of Laos. Here in Laos, they call it the American War. We recently saw
an unconscious person in the hospital with a piece of shrapnel in her
brain. Her family explained to us that her brother was killed from the
explosion as they were working together in their rice field. There was
nothing that we could do, except to say, ``I'm sorry.'' Meanwhile the
Lao Government cooperates with the USA helping to recover the remains
of American MIAs.
In a letter to Charles Rangel, Committee on Ways and Means, House
of Representatives, dated February 24 2003, signed by Robert Zoellick,
U.S. Trade Representative and Colin Powell, Secretary of State;
concerns about the Lao Government's human rights record are discussed
and summarized by stating ``The Administration believes that extending
NTR to Laos will create a more cooperative atmosphere and opportunities
that will help open the society and leverage our efforts to improve
human rights, religious freedom and rule of law in Laos.''
Everyday we see disease caused by malnutrition, a direct result of
poverty. In the hospitals, many children, already in a pathetic state
of health, die from diarrhea. In the countryside, many children walk
around with distended abdomens, common with malnutrition and intestinal
parasites. Many have white spots or ulcers on their eyes from vitamin
deficiency. When their eye gets bad and bothers them, and if they can
afford it, they have their eye removed. It only costs $20 U.S. dollars.
We have seen two cases of NOMA, cancrum oris, a secondary infection
that afflicts malnourished children after a course of measles or other
illness. This infection begins in the mouth and eats away at the lips
and cheek. If the children survive the disease, and even more severe
malnutrition from not being able to move their jaw and chew their food;
they grow up horribly disfigured. It takes eight hours in an American
operating room to give them their face back. I told one girl that I
would try to help her. We hope that through the influence of these
words, and the words in other public comments, others can be prevented
from loosing their face as she has.
This poverty and poor state of health affects minority people far
more significantly than any other segment of the population.
Ironically, these are the people mentioned in the letter to Charles
Rangel regarding human rights or ``protection of minority rights.''
We cannot provide the solutions to reduce poverty and thus improve
health. We see ourselves and other volunteers working so hard to make
even the slightest difference for a few people; sometimes with success,
and sometimes with failure. We need to believe that ``good enough'' is
acceptable and sometimes even too much to hope for. The situation in
some of the villages is so bad, that we rejoice in even the slightest
hint of being able to make a difference. We do not know who would
benefit the most from NTR; but we expect that even the poorest people
will gain some benefit, directly in the marketplace. These people will
also benefit from export taxes that will help the Lao Government
develop transportation, communication, education, and health
facilities; all necessary to help reduce poverty. Anything that can
provide hope to eradicate poverty pertains to individual human rights.
The human right for parents to feed their children, should be a far
greater and more immediate concern than the government's human rights
record. Religious freedom is about offering people choices. Granting
the Lao Government ``normal'' trade relations, should offer to Lao
families the ``normal'' opportunities and choices that our families
take for granted in the USA.
Leila Srour, MD
Bryan Watt
<F-dash>
Hmong American Planning and Development Center, Inc.
Arlington, Texas 76013
The Honorable Congressman Martin Frost and Congressional members of
the Ways and Means Committee,
On behalf of the Hmong American Planning and Development Center,
Inc., a non-profit community-based organization of Texas, I write this
letter in support for the granting of NTR to Laos.
Once granted, both the American and Lao people will greately
benefit the NTR. During the past several years, many Lao American
Entrepreneurs had tried to do business with the Lao people but they
faced the international trade barriers. As consequence, many business
leaders lost their investment.
The NTR would benefit the current Lao government leadership in the
short-term but in the long run, the Lao population will enjoy its good
results. Also, the NTR may be one of the instruments for political
changes in the future and hopefully democracy will prevail.
Thank your support as well as the United States congress.
Respectfully Yours,
Thao Phia Xaykao
Director
<F-dash>
Hmong International Human Rights Watch
Omaha, Nebraska 68104
April 21, 2003
The Honorable Phil Crane
Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Trade
233 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Fax: (202) 225-2610
hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
LHearing on Extension of Normal Trade Relations to the Lao People's
Democratice Republic
Dear Congressman Crane:
Our organization is strongly opposed to the granting of Normalized
Trade Relations to Laos before some concrete measures have been taken
by the current Lao PDR regime to improve its human rights record and
open up the country to international human rights monitors to all areas
of the country, most particularly remote areas of Saysomboun Special
Zone.
I would like to begin by stating that the Hmong people have been
targeted for human rights abuse by the current regime because of their
loyal support of the United States during the Vietnam War. It was
because of this loyalty that the Hmong continue to be the never ending
target of persecution by the Lao PDR up till the present day.
After 1975, the Hmong were singled out for extermination. On
September 13, 1981, then-U.S. Secretary of State Alexander Haig accused
the Soviet Union of supplying chemical weapons (trichothecene
mycotoxins) to the Lao and Vietnamese governments to use against the
Hmong. To this date, the State Department has still not retracted its
statement. Today, these weapons would be threateningly referred to as
``Weapons of Mass Destruction''. It is important to note that these
alleged chemical attacks took place in an area now referred to as
Saysomboun Special Zone. This is an administrative area operated by Lao
military forces. Travel is tightly restricted. U.N. and U.S. Embassy
staff cannot travel freely to this remote area. This is a major concern
because some of the worst human rights atrocities occur here on a
regular basis.
Hmong returnees and their leaders have been the target of human
rights abuse. Vue Mai, the leader of a large group of returnees was
secretly arrested and never heard from again. Kou Yang, the former
leader of Ban Phan Thao repatriation site had to get political asylum
in the U.S. after Lao PDR officials made threats on his life. This was
all because he spoke out against the lowland Lao taking away many of
the Hmong returnees farmland.
Hmong returnees have to carry government-issued identification
cards with distinctive markings, which mark them as potential trouble
makers. This year's State Department's Human Rights Report on Laos
states that such cards tended to reinforce a pattern of societal
discrimination against the returnees. This is troubling as the Hmong
returnees are often singled out as scapegoats for any societal problems
that arise. Since the Hmong returnees living in Ban Phan Thao are not
allowed to own guns, unlike the lowland Lao who have AK-47s, they are
constantly in a precarious position.
To add insult to injury, the UNHCR closed its office in Laos over a
year ago. Lionel Rosenblatt, former State Department official and
currently President Emeritus of Refugees International, stated in a RI
report released early last year that the U.S. government had promised
to fully fund UNHCR's continued operation in Vientiane.
The two Hmong-speaking UNHCR monitors are no longer available to
resolve the problems of returnees. Ever since the February 6, 2003
attack on a bus just outside Vang Vieng the Hmong returnees have lived
in constant fear of government reprisals. They are afraid because they
are often the scapegoat for such violent occurrences. The newspapers
reported that instead of trying to preserve the crime scene authorities
quickly cleaned up the area, thereby destroying any evidence which
could later be used in court.
We have received information that the government arrested a Hmong
man from a nearby town in connection with this incident. We fear for
his safety, as the recently released State Department's Human Rights
Report on Laos states that detainees suspected of insurgency are
treated very roughly.
In June 2002, a Hmong-American was an eye-witness when 105 Hmong
peacefully surrendered to government authorities in Ban Phan Thao
village. He wanted to take photos of the group but authorities denied
his request. Shortly thereafter, the Lao government ordered several
trucks to take these Hmong away, supposedly heading for the Phukhin
Jail in Vientiane. We have presented this information to the U.S.
Ambassador in Laos but have not been able to find out where these Hmong
were taken or how they are doing right now.
That same month, there was also the case we reported of six Hmong
who were arrested in Meung Feung. The U.S. Ambassador has confirmed the
arrest but has still not found out where they have been taken to and if
they will have a fair trial.
Earlier this month Voice of America reported that the Lao
government arrested 3 Hmong leaders from Muang Mok and took them to a
jail in Savanakhet. Last month we received news that 150 Hmong living
in this area were assaulted by the Lao military, 5 killed, others
wounded, with the rest fleeing into the jungle. We are very concerned
about what will happen to these Hmong.
There are still over 30,000 Hmong refugees living in Thailand, most
of who live at Wat Thamkrabok. These Hmong possess neither Lao nor Thai
citizenship. They are without nationality. We know of a case of 5 Hmong
who acquired Thai citizenship then legally traveled back to Laos to
visit relatives during the new year celebration. These Hmong were
wrongfully accused of being Hmong insurgents and put in jail. They have
been held for over three years now without receiving a fair trial.
Currently, they are in Phongtong jail, Vientiane (more information
available upon request).
Lastly, we know of many cases of Hmong working at high levels of
the government who are singled out and imprisoned or executed. We have
received word that Boua Chong Lee, who was a high level military
officer arrested in 1995 has been killed. Then there is the recent case
we received of Savangsai Lo (aka: Xaiv Ker Lo), who held a high
position in the Trade Department. He was the son-in-law of Xai Ker
Yang, former President of the Lao PDR National Assembly. On August 10,
2002, Savangsai Lo was murdered by the Lao PDR, after he refused to
take part in government sponsored corruption (more information
available upon request).
Conclusion
We would like the U.S. government to establish an Orderly Departure
Program (ODP) for those Hmong trapped inside Saysomboun Special Zone
and the surrounding remote jungle area.
We would like the U.S. to put pressure on the Lao government to
open up Saysomboun Special Zone and other areas of the country so that
international human rights monitors can be allowed uninhibited access
to all areas of the country.
Prisoners must have the right to fair trials and be allowed visits
by family members and ICRC.
Without the granting of such basic freedoms as these we feel that
granting Normalized Trade Status to the Lao PDR will have a negative
impact on the local population.
Respectfully,
Laura Xiong
Executive Director
CC:
Congressman Xavier Becerra, CA
Congressman Dave Camp, MI
Congresswoman Jennifer Dunn, WA
Congressman Phil English, PA
Congressman Ramstad, CA
Congressman Charles B. Rangel, NY
Congressman E. Clay Shaw Jr. FL
Congressman Jonh S. Tanner, TN
Congressman Wally Herger, CA
Congressman Amo Houghton, NY
Congressman William J. Jefferson, LA
Congressman Sander M. Levin, MI
Congressman Richard E. Neal, MA
Congressman Jim Nussle, IA
<F-dash>
New Haven, Connecticut 06511
Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman
Subcommittee on Trade
Ways and Means Committee
House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Fax: 202-225-2610
Dear Chairman Crane,
I urge you to submit the BTA to the 108<SUP>th</SUP> Congress for
prompt consideration and passage. I believe that the United States and
Laos will benefit greatly from the normal trade relations (NTR) that
will follow Congressional passage.
As you know, Laos is one of only seven countries under non-NTR or
embargo-type policies in U.S. foreign policy. The denial of NTR to Laos
in light of normal trade relations granted to Vietnam and Cambodia
makes little sense. The United States and Laos signed the BTA in 1997,
and its ratification forms part of President Bush's trade agenda.
President Bush recently cited Laos as one of the countries included in
the Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative, with the aim of helping that
country, Cambodia and Vietnam integrate into the international economy.
Moreover, bilateral efforts to address POW/MIA issues and stem the flow
of narcotics continue to be productive.
I am mindful that trade agreements negotiated by the Executive
Branch and approved by Congress are only the first stage of stronger
and more mutually beneficial ties. It is incumbent upon the government
of Laos to provide American companies and their own state and private
enterprises with the legal framework and operational authority they
need to pursue successful trade and investments.
After 1975, the United States and Laos maintained official ties
when relations with Vietnam and Cambodia had been completely severed.
It is time to remove discriminatory tariff barriers and to take this
last major step toward the normalization of relations. I look forward
to working with you to achieve this. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely yours,
Benjamin D. Hodgdon
<F-dash>
Washington, D.C. 20001
Congressman Philip M. Crane
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Fax (202) 225-2610
Congressman Philip M. Crane:
I am an anthropology specialist who has worked on anthropological
research of Vat Phu Province of Laos and through my knowledge on Lao
society, is hoping for a smooth carry out of the Bilateral Trade
Agreement between Laos and the United States.
The province in Laos that I was working was planned to be
designated as a World Heritage by UNESCO. To avoid the cultural
destruction by impact of tourists on residents at the site (who have
traditional life style,) anthropologists decided to limit the number of
tourists coming into the site at a time. I was against these
anthropologists. The residents at the archaeological site are on
absolute poverty. If the residents are able to sell their intricate
handcrafts to as many tourists as possible, and if that process leads
to international trade, their economic situation would improve.
Since the United States has the largest power on international
market, the normalized trade between Laos and the United States would
impact the most and exponentially help these large number of people in
Laos who are suffering under poverty. I am confident that execution of
the Bilateral Trade Agreement would better the life of the people of
Laos. The people would appreciate the United States, as the country of
human rights.
Very sincerely,
Fumie Iizuka
<F-dash>
International Mass Retail Association
Arlington, Virginia 22209
April 21, 2003
The Honorable Phillip Crane
Chairman
House Ways & Means
Subcommittee on Trade
1104 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Chairman Crane:
On behalf of the International Mass Retail Association (IMRA), I
urge you to support Congressional approval for Normal Trade Relations
(NTR) for Laos this year.
The International Mass Retail Association is the world's leading
alliance of retailers and their product and service suppliers. IMRA
members represent over $1 trillion in sales annually and operate over
100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers
nationwide. Our member retailers and suppliers have facilities in all
50 states, as well as internationally, and employ millions of
Americans. As a full-service trade association, IMRA provides industry
research and education, government advocacy, and a unique forum for its
members to establish relationships, solve problems, and work together
for the benefit of the consumer and the mass retail industry.
The U.S. and Laos concluded a bilateral trade agreement in August
1997, however the U.S. has never implemented the agreement, which means
Laos has yet to receive NTR trade status. As you are well aware, non-
NTR tariffs are significantly higher than higher than those granted
under normal trade status.
NTR for Laos would lead to increased two-way trade between our
countries, giving IMRA's members another option for sourcing and
providing U.S. consumers with high quality products at competitive
prices, especially wearing apparel. Last year U.S. importers paid close
to $5 million in duties on cotton sweaters, sweatshirts and vests (HTS
611020). Current non-NTR duty rates on these items are 45%, while the
NTR rate is only 5%. NTR for Laos would lead to huge savings for
American consumers on these and other products.
We urge you to move forward with granting NTR status to Laos this
year. If you have any questions, please contact Jonathan Gold,
Director, International Trade Policy (jongold@imra.org) in the IMRA
office.
Sincerely,
Sandy Kennedy
President, IMRA
<F-dash>
Jhai Foundation
San Francicso, California 94112
May 21, 2003
To: members, Ways and Means Committee
From: Lee Thorn, Chair, Jhai Foundation
Re: Normalization of trade with Laos
Thank you for this opportunity to comment on this bill.
I am a veteran of the air war in Laos. I was a bombloader on the
USS Ranger (CVA-61) in 1966. Most of the bombs I loaded fell on Laos.
For the last five years I and my co-founder, Bounthanh
Phommasathit, of Etna, Ohio, and formerly of the Plain of Jars in Laos,
have worked on behalf of poor Lao people to build the Jhai Foundation's
activities in Laos. We are a reconciliation non-governmental
organization and an American non-profit organization under IRS
corporate status 501c3.
I wish to add my name to those who support normalization of trade
with Laos. I believe it is very important that after all these years
Lao people have the opportunity to trade with the United States. It
will help not only Lao people, especially women weavers who face a 90%
tariff to entry into the U.S. market, send goods. It also will help the
most successful Lao-Americans do something good for their homeland
through trade and business.
Jhai Foundation helps the rural poor develop information technology
for communications and business, helps farmers increase their yields,
and helps coffee farmers get a Fair Trade price for their wonderful
coffee. We hope also to help Lao weavers sell their goods. All this
economic development activity would be greatly helped
Normalization is long overdue. Laos presents no threat to us. It is
time to reconcile.
Yours, in Peace,
Lee Thorn
Chairman,
Jhai Foundation
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Vientiane, Lao PDR
June 16, 2003
Congressman Philip M. Crane, Chairman
Subcommittee on Trade of the Committee on Ways and Means
hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
Fax: (202) 225-2610
Dear Sir:
I am writing in response to your request for written public
comments regarding the extension of normal trade relations (NTR) status
to the products of Laos.
I am an American citizen who has lived and worked in Lao PDR since
1998 as the director of a U.S.-based international non-government
organization. I encourage you to grant permanent NTR status to Laos and
to enact the 1997 bilateral trade agreement for Congress to enact
legislation amending the HTS to strike Laos permanently from General
Note 3(b). I believe this agreement will represent an important step
toward economic reform and openness, which are key U.S. priorities in
Laos. Laos is a poor developing country that needs more contact with
the outside world to stay afloat. A more prosperous Laos is in the U.S.
interest
The opinions I have expressed here are personal and do not intend
to represent an official position by my employer.
Sincerely,
Arlyne Johnson, Ph.D.
Co-director, WCS--Lao Country Program
<F-dash>
Washington, D.C. 20002
April 11, 2003
Congressman Philip M. Crane
Room 233
Cannon House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515-1308
Dear Congressman Crane;
By way of introduction, I am Mr. Robert L. Jones, Former Deputy
Assistant Secretary Of Defense for POW/Missing Personnel Affairs (DASD
POW/MPA). I served in this capacity during the former administration
from May 1998 to March 2001. Prior to assuming office I participated in
several presidential delegations to Southeast Asia concerning POW/MIA
affairs and normalization of relations with Vietnam. In various
capacities I had the opportunity to visit Laos and to participate in
numerous negotiations concerning the POW/MIA issue.
I am pleased to note that you are soliciting comments concerning
the United States extending Normal Trade Relations to Laos. I am aware
that the Secretary of State and the U.S. Trade Representative have
endorsed this endeavor.
During my tenure as DASD POW/MPA the Lao government was extremely
cooperative, within their capability, in assisting our endeavors to
determine the fate of missing Americans from the Vietnam War and to
recover them with honor. I maintained an open dialogue with officials
from the Lao government in Vientiane and their Ambassador in
Washington, DC. Through our mutual efforts the U.S. Joint Task Force
For Full Accounting was given greater latitude in conducting operations
in Laos. Our operations format was given greater flexibility; we were
allowed to increase the number of Americans on recovery operations and
allowed when appropriate to extend the length of operations. The Lao
gave us expanded access to government archives, museums and libraries.
We were provided access to the Lao film library. In addition, the Lao
expanded their personnel committed to our joint efforts. Granted the
process has been slow and activists have criticized it, however it is a
process that has produced favorable results. The remains of missing
Americans continue to be returned with dignity and honor to their loved
ones. This could not be achieved without the full cooperation of the
Lao people.
Though the search for missing Americans from the war in Vietnam
continues. I believe that the Lao have demonstrated in good faith a
willingness to fully cooperate with us in this noble endeavor. I
strongly support extending Normal Trade Relations to Laos.
Sincerely,
Robert L. Jones
<F-dash>
Falls Church, Virginia 22043
Dear Honorable Philip M. Crane
My name is Ammone Ker.
I wholeheartedly support the initiative for the US NTR to Laos and
ask that you support this initiative as well. If you have any questions
regarding why you should support this initiative, please contact the
US-Lao NTR Coalition.
Respectfully Yours,
______
The Voice of the Laotian American National Movement
In support of
The Bush Administration's Trade Initiative
To extend Normal Trade Relations to Laos
We believe that:
Widespread and rapidly growing unemployment among youth in Laos has
driven tens of thousands of them to flee to Thailand and other
neighboring countries where they fall prey to exploitative and inhumane
treatment by their employers and criminals; while the land-locked
Laotian economy continues to weaken due to decline in foreign
investment and its weak capability to compete with its neighbors in the
export markets. The situation is further aggravated by the continued
denial of US NTR while such privilege is enjoyed by its stronger
immediate neighbors, including Vietnam and Cambodia.
US NTR for Laos is not a panacea for its social economic problems,
but it will put Laos on a level playing field with its neighboring
countries on which to compete for a share of the U.S. markets. This in
turn will stimulate domestic and foreign investment in Laos and give
the country a fair chance to provide decent jobs for its youth and
thereby help reverse the current ill treatment and suffering they have
had to endure, both in Laos and in neighboring countries.
We realize that Laotian communities across the U.S. are not
unanimous in their views about the current Laotian Government and its
policies, and that the majority of Laotian Americans still wish to see
more political reforms and changes. But we believe that a stronger
Laotian economy will improve living conditions of the Laotian people
who, in turn, will then become real stakeholders and, eventually
catalysts for change. Experience in Asia has amply demonstrated that
the democratization process has been economically driven.
While understanding and respecting the views of those opposing the
granting of US NTR for Laos, we ask that they also understand and
respect our views and positions on this important matter. As American
citizens, we have the obligation to respect each other's rights and
freedom to express our views in accordance with our belief and
conscience.
The majority of Laotian Americans have reconnected with their
homeland. Most of them have returned to Laos for visits and have
relatives who are still there and wish to see that they be given a fair
chance for a better living. Most Laotian Americans believe that
promoting economic development is the best way to promote peaceful and
sustainable change in Laos.
We wholeheartedly applaud and share the position taken by the Bush
Administration on the issue of US NTR for Laos. Ambassador Hartwick is
trying to encourage discussion and favorable consideration of this
initiative.
Laotian Americans and friends of the Laotians who share our views
should exercise their right of freedom of speech by voicing their views
to their respective Congressional representatives, especially members
of the House Ways and Means Committee.
The opposition to the US NTR to date seeks to isolate and
impoverish Laos for their own ambiguous political agenda. They have
organized and financed aggressive lobby efforts to prevent hearings on
this matter. Some of them continue to believe that poverty will force
change in Laos. Recent history in Asia shows otherwise. People in
isolated and poor North Korea have no means to ask for change, they
starve in silence; while in relatively rich South Korea and other parts
of Asia (Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, Philippines etc.) growing
affluence of the peoples have created economically strong and well
educated middle class who in turn have proven to be the real incubators
and guardians of the growing democratization process.
A constructive engagement approach is a better alternative for the
U.S. to promote change in Laos; and that promoting change through
peaceful socioeconomic development is far more effective and humane
than deliberate impoverishment of our fellow Laotians in Laos. Laos
needs to adopt international standards and strengthen the rule of law.
We should voice our collective efforts to urge the U.S. Congress to
grant Laos the US NTR.
Now is the time for us to make our voice heard. Please sign on as
members
and supporters of this national movement, and call, write or email your
Senators and Congressmen toda-Y. Reminding them that, granting NTR to
Vietnam and Cambodia, and withholding similar rights for Laos does not
make sense.
Laotian American National Movement will try to coordinate and in
some cases help to campaign for US NTR for Laos. Our American friends
can certainly help to do the same. Let's not leave out any body that
can help.
For more information and assistance, please contact:
The US-Lao NTR Coalition
120 Broadway, Suite 4
Richmond, CA 94804
(510) 235-5005, (510) 235-5065
Website: Laotianlink.com
Email: Laotianlink@USA.com
(Please attach this document to emails to your friends and
colleagues and ask them to do like wise. It also can be found in
www.laotianlink.com--Thank you.)
Ammone Ker
<F-dash>
Racine, Wisconsin 53406
April 17, 2003
The Honorable Philip Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on
Trade of the Committee of Ways and Means
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Representative Crane:
On behalf of the Armenian-American community of Wisconsin, I would
like to thank you for the opportunity to comment on and support
extending Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) status to Armenia.
Extending PNTR status to Armenia will be one more positive step to
removing the former Soviet Union's cruel grip on Armenia. It is
important to note that in 1920 Armenia faced invasion from both
Kemalist Turkey and Bolshevik Russia and was forced to surrender to the
lesser of two evils. The result was 70 years of political, economic and
social oppression and alienation from the Western world, instead of
what would have assuredly been the completion of Turkey's genocidal
campaign started in 1915.
In 1991, Armenia took its first step to removing the Soviet Union's
grip by announcing its independence. Since then, Armenia has taken
additional steps in this direction and, in the process, is creating a
democracy and market economy. Most recently, the World Trade
Organization approved Armenia's membership and President Bush certified
to Congress that Armenia continues to comply with international
standards for freedom of emigration. PNTR is the next logical step in
this process.
Extending PNTR status to Armenia will have the added benefit of
increasing trade between the United States and Armenia at a time when
Turkey and Azerbaijan have imposed an illegal economic blockade. The
World Bank has estimated that Armenia has suffered a loss of $720
million per year due to this blockade. Increased trade with the United
States will help to offset these losses.
I once again thank you for the opportunity to comment on PNTR
status to Armenia and trust you will make every effort to see it
approved.
Sincerely,
A. Zohrab Khaligian
Armenian National Committee of Wisconsin
<F-dash>
New York, New York 10019
Congressmen:
Please pass legislation giving NTR status to Laos.
I have done business with Laotian businesses and have visited this
wonderful country. I believe that both of our countries would benefit
greatly from NTR.
Thank you for your consideration.
Mary Kilty
<F-dash>
Burton, Michigan 48509
April 10, 2003
Congressman Phil Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
United States House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Chairman:
We strongly support normal trade relations (NTR) for Laos. NTR is
long overdue, particularly when you consider that the only two other
countries in the entire world that do not have NTR are North Korea and
Cuba!
Laos has consistently worked with the US on POW/MIA accounting,
improving each year, under the most difficult conditions of any in
Southeast Asia.
They have also cooperated well to counter international narcotics
production and trafficking.
The Lao people who will most benefit, need this support to improve
their livelihood, and the US can best demonstrate reciprocity for their
humanitarian POW/MIA and broader cooperation by taking this long
overdue step.
Respectfully,
Jean King
James D. King
<F-dash>
Lanxang Democracy, Inc.
Roseville, Minnesota 55113
March 20, 2003
Honorable US. Congressman Philip M. Crane
Chairman of the Subcommittee on Trade of the Committee on Ways and
Means
US. House of Representatives
Washington D.C
Ref: The granting of a Normalized Trade Relations to Laos.
It is a very important step made by the United States of America in
granting a Normalized Trade Relations status to underdeveloped
countries which are in need for economic development. It is also a
precondition for foreign investors to make direct investments in such
poor and risky country as Laos that their finished products would be
exported back to rich countries.
On behalf of Lanxang Democracy Party and the free people of Laos,
we embrace the US Foreign Policy of `` Engagement'' and are concerned
about the granting of a normalized trade relations status to Laos
without evolving an effective mechanism of check and balance.
Nevertheless, to maintain a real political stability, social and
economic development, and to promote national reconciliation through
peaceful means, we highly recommend the US. Congress to make a broader
and comprehensive decision based on the following facts:
Socioeconomic conditions: Despite massive international financial
aids and low interest loans over the past 27 years, Laos still remains
one of the poorest countries on Earth and, according to a recent report
of Asian Development Bank (ADB), will default the reimbursement of its
foreign debts when becoming due. With more than $3.6 billions USD of
debts on their shoulders, the people of Laos will continue suffering of
malnutrition and starvation for several decades. Because of hardship,
rural people are pouring into big cities looking for work. For those
who live in big cities have then found their ways to clandestinely
cross the border to work in other countries. Thousands of them have
been exploited and are obligated to becoming prostitutes or performing
other illegal activities.
Lao education system is, at worse, the lowest level as compared to
its neighboring countries. Coupled with its poor education standard,
schools and qualified instructors are fewer everywhere. In June 2002,
for example, only about 1700 of the 25,000 high school graduates were
admitted to Higher education because of lack of schools. There was no
hope for the rest of them and nobody really knows about their status at
the present time. Unfortunately, this perilous situation will drag on
endlessly if a real reform is not implemented now.
Without work on the horizon, people tend to grab everything they
can for cash. Because of its cash-crop status, thousands of Lao people
still continue the plantation of opium. Therefore, the narcotic
trafficking business of amphetamine or Yaba is soaring and, with Lao
officials' complice, it is very difficult to eradicate opium plantation
in Laos. Many high ranking Lao officials are directly involved in the
business, but each seizure of drug traffickers involves only ordinary
people and low ranking Lao officials.
Political and Human Rights conditions: Since the Lao PDR's takeover
of the Kingdom of Laos in 1975, thousands of Lao Royal government's
high ranking officials, employees, military and police officers were
sent to the concentration camps and died there. In these days, hundreds
or thousands of Lao citizens still have been arrested and jailed
without a due process.
The Lao PDR's 1991 Constitution seems guaranteeing the basic rights
for its citizens, but it continues to persecute its own people for the
sake of its political ambition and purposes. In 1999, for example, a
lot of students who peacefully manifested in the capital of Vientiane
were apprehended and jailed without judgement until these days.
Security Concerns: The incident on February 6, 2003 in VangVieng
province areas that took 12 civilians' lives, including 3 foreigners,
and subsequent attacks are our deep concerns and fear of the security
of innocent people. We totally condemn these barbarians acts and feel
their severe losses very deeply. We believed that those inhuman acts
were committed by members of the poor people and those who are unhappy
with the Lao PDR's handle of the nation's affairs.
In assuring lasting peace and security, political stability, and
national reconciliation in Laos, we want the US. Congress to make sure
that Lao PDR is well aware and fulfills the following preconditions in
order to receive our full support for NTR:
1. Lao PDR must open up the free and equal access, without
restriction, into every geographical areas to Lao-Hmong overseas; no
discriminatory screening of entry visas to Lao-Hmong overseas; and
either donations or private aids to specific localities must be
permitted without central government officials' involvement.
2. Business opportunities must be opened to all investors,
including Lao overseas and foreigners based on the framework of the
United Nations and a fair standard of international competition as
defined by the World Trade Organization (WTO). Lao PDR must enact a new
business law and regulations that fit into the internationally
acceptable economic practices.
3. Lao PDR must provide a written guarantee of non-confiscation of
future business entities merely based on the country's economic
conditions. If any expropriation should occur, the business owner must
be fairly compensated according to the new business law. And Lao PDR
must also avoid any domestication, which is the profound effects on the
business operations. If conflict should occur, the Lao PDR should be
willing to accept the remedy of international legal institutions for
avoiding arbitrary remedy.
4. All international assistance or aids and loans must be monitored
by credible international agencies and the United States in order to
minimize corruption and mismanagement of funds. In this manner, all
funds will be certainly applied to the related projects. Those
monitoring agencies must include members of Lao-Hmong overseas.
5. If desired, any Lao-Hmong overseas should have the same
opportunity to work or be assigned to all levels of Lao PDR's
government for economic and social development, national
reconciliation, and a lasting stability in Laos.
6. For instant, regime change will only bring further chaos to Laos
than ameliorating the life standard of the entire country. Therefore
and under the supervision of the United Nations and the United States,
political reform should be undertaken through peaceful and progressive
means.
7. Lao PDR must facilitate constructive dialogues with Lao overseas
oppositions under leadership of Prince Soulivong SAVANG and Prince
Sauryavong SAVANG for political settlement once and for all. These
dialogues must be orchestrated by the Ambassador of the United States
in Vientiane, or ASEAN, or the United Nations.
8. Lao PDR must provide some safety zones for the insurgents or
resistance forces for their gradual integration into the society. Those
zones must be directly managed by the United Nations and the Ambassador
of the United States for a reasonable duration. And no a single
returnee should be prosecuted for his or her past political aspiration.
9. Finally, dual citizenship must be offered to all Lao-Hmong
overseas.
Before granting a normalized trade relation status to Lao PDR, we
want the US. Administration and the US. Congress to ascertain that Lao
PDR complies with the above preconditions. NTR's ultimate purpose is to
help impoverished countries and its people in lifting off the ground of
poverty by allowing its goods to be sold overseas with the least import
taxes imposed by host countries to earn hard currency, in this case the
United States. If its primary goal was to sway, the NTR will not
benefit the deprived Lao people and its granting will be meaningless
and counterproductive.
Therefore, we, Lao overseas, are about to participate in any US.
Congressional Hearing on the issue for a better and frank discussion
with all political and social organizations to resolve this
controversial issue.
Respectfully Yours,
Moua Sao Bliayang
Tswv Xa Moua
Gymbay Moua
Moua Xiong
Yia Lee
Joe M.
Seng Xiong
Wang Teng Yang
Chong Xue Chang
Chai Moua
Chuck Moua
Bee Moua
Ia Moua Yang
Mai Vang Lee
Song Bliayang
Bertrand Moua
Brian Moua
Henry Yang
Shannon
Cindy
Sydney
Saykham
Pao Lee Moua
Che Bliayang
Charles
Chao Moua
Wang Moua
<F-dash>
Lao American National Republican Party of U.S.A.
Tennessee Chapter
Antioch, Tennessee 37013
Dear Congressman Philip M. Crane:
Chairman, Subcommitte on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
United States Congress
As Laotian-Americans with many family members still living under
the oppressive communist regime in Laos, we urge you to oppose Normal
Trade Relations (NTR) for Laos until such time as Laos achieves
democratic reforms, respect for human rights and the rule of law.
We believe such opposition is merited by the tremendous record of
human rights abuse accumulated over twenty-eight years of oppressive
rule by the Lao people's Revolutionary Party (LPRP). These abuses
include the lack of free elections, the prohibition on the right of
assembly and redress of grievances, the arrest and disappearance of
protesters without the right of habeus corpus, and the aggressive
repression of the exercise of religion. The United States Commission on
International Religious Freedom concluded in its February 2003 Report
on Laos that: ``. . .the U.S. government should make clear to the
government of Laos that any such dialogue or other improvement in U.S.-
Laos relations must be based on the immediate cessation of proactices
that abuse religious freedom, including arbitrary arrest and detention,
forced renunciations and church closing.
Please, do not reward the oligarches who control the Laotian
Communist Party. Do not reward the Party bosses and generals who abuse
every tradition of democracy and human rights as they abuse the poor
people of Laos. Now is the time for members of the United States
Congress to take a stand against political and religious persecution.
Oppose unconditional NTR for Laos. Pass NTR for Laos only after Laos
makes real and sincere reform and progress towards democracy, rule of
law and respect for basic human rights.
Sincerely,
Noukane Souriyavongsa
Regional Vice President
Lao American National
Republican Party Of USA
Chapter Of Tennessee State
______
Lao American Repulibcan Party of Tennessee
5101 Countryside Drive
Antioch, TN 37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NO. FULL NAME ADDRESSES
------------------------------------------------------------------------
001 Noukane Souriyavongsa 4631 Dowdy Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
002 Joe Lasrithammavan 4512 Xavier Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
003 Khambong Phomthisene 104 Dowdy Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
004 Bounmy Janetvilay 5101 Countryside Dr. Antioch,
TN 37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
005 Bounngeune Janetvilay 5101 Countryside Dr. Antioch,
TN 37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
006 Lin Surivongchai 5101 Countryside Dr. Antioch,
TN 37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
007 Bouavanh Janetvilay 5101 Countryside Dr. Antioch,
TN 37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
008 Amanda Souriyavongsa 4631 Dowdy Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
009 Vanhdy Souriyavongsa 4631 Dowdy Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
010 Aivilay Phetchamphone 4631 Dowdy Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
011 Ann Lasrithammavan 4512 Xavier Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
012 Anousack Souvannasane 456 Owendale Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
013 Somsanouk Souvannasane 456 Owendale Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
014 Boualphanh Inthyvong 1224 Bell Rd. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
015 Leo Inthyvong 1224 Bell Rd. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
016 Bouapha Praseuth 109 Panamint Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
017 Vanthong Saenboutarath 2712 Dickerson Rd. Lot #87
Nashville,TN 37207
------------------------------------------------------------------------
018 Bousy Sirivong 4700 Apollo Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
019 Kenekham Sirivong 4700 Apollo Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
020 Bounsouay Inthavong 4613 Dowdy Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
021 Kongthong Inthavong 4613 Dowdy Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
022 Saysaming Souriyavongsa 4612 Dowdy Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
023 Bounleua Souriyavongsa 4612 Dowdy Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
024 Pismai Phomthisene 104 Dowdy Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
025 David Sayarath 3115 Bishop Street
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
------------------------------------------------------------------------
026 Allison Sayarath 3115 Bishop Street
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
------------------------------------------------------------------------
027 Indrew Mouiphachanh 2712 Dickerson Rd. Lot # 5
Nashville, TN 37207
------------------------------------------------------------------------
028 Inpaeng Sabchareun 5172b Singing Hill Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
029 Khammanh Thansamai 2315 Willow Dr. Antioch, TN
37127
------------------------------------------------------------------------
030 Phongsy Thansamai 2315 Willow Dr. Antioch, TN
37127
------------------------------------------------------------------------
031 Monee Nhotsavang 5004 Major Dr. Murfreesboro,
TN 37129
------------------------------------------------------------------------
032 Naly Nhotsavang 5004 Major Dr. Murfreesboro,
TN 37129
------------------------------------------------------------------------
033 Noukham Saenboutarath 4713 Richards Dr. Antioch, TN
37012
------------------------------------------------------------------------
034 Somsy Saenboutarath 4713 Richards Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
035 Somnuk Sayaxoumphou 430 Cedar Cliff Rd. Antioch,
TN 37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
036 Nomkeo Sayaxoumphou 430 Cedar Cliff Rd. Antioch,
TN 37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
037 Vanh Ngo 2312 Foster Ave Nashville, TN
37210
------------------------------------------------------------------------
038 Bounma Ngo 2312 Foster Ave Nashville, TN
37210
------------------------------------------------------------------------
039 Khamnouan Keomanychanh 144 Benzing Rd. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
040 Bounmy Keomanychanh 144 Benzing Rd. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
041 Khamphoui Chanthaphanh 3932 Atkins Dr. Nashville, TN
37211
------------------------------------------------------------------------
042 Bounliam Chanthphanh 3932 Atkins Dr. Nashville, TN
37211
------------------------------------------------------------------------
043 Khampheng Phommachanh 220 Bakertown Rd. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
044 Ladda Khounviengxay 4729 Miners Cove Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
045 Methy Khounviengxay 4729 Miners Cove Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
046 Aun Sada 1210 N. Academy St.
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
------------------------------------------------------------------------
047 Champa Sinpraseuth 525 Womacck Rd. Bethpage, TN
37022
------------------------------------------------------------------------
048 Khaiseng Xayasane 31 Jay St. Nashville, TN 37210
------------------------------------------------------------------------
049 Nithone Ratanaphone 4621 Cynthia Ln. Murfreesboro,
TN 37129
------------------------------------------------------------------------
050 Vanpheng Khampakasy 6583 Cabot Rd. Nashville, TN
37209
------------------------------------------------------------------------
051 Phosy Vongsaphay 1302 Rutherford St.
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
------------------------------------------------------------------------
052 kham Ouane Khammysing 4716 McBride Rd. Antioch, TN
37013
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053 Pe Sayaseng 2712 Dickerson Rd. Lot #37
Nashville, TN
------------------------------------------------------------------------
054 Keo Manyvanh 2714 Murfreesboro Rd. Lot #59
Antioch, TN
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055 Khammeng Phommachanh 1506 Sherrill Blvd.
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
------------------------------------------------------------------------
056 Seuy Xaiyasombath 609 Jay St. Nashville, TN
47210
------------------------------------------------------------------------
057 Vanny Senepraseuth 1510 Sherrill Blvd,
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
------------------------------------------------------------------------
058 Nary Phonhasackd 1407 Eagle St. Murfreesboro,
TN 37130
------------------------------------------------------------------------
059 Khamsaen Naomalaysy 5017 Chadfield Way Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
060 Novanpheth Soundara 88 Tusculum Rd. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
061 Savath Vongprachanh 1201 Orchard MTNCT Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
062 Bounpheng Phimvong 813 Gladeview CT Lavergne, TN
37086
------------------------------------------------------------------------
063 Manichanh Vongxay 205 South Bilbro Murfreesboro,
TN 37130
------------------------------------------------------------------------
064 Dom Sayvone 117 Blade CT Murfreesboro, TN
37127
------------------------------------------------------------------------
065 Kham Sayvorn 117 Blade CT Murfreesboro, TN
37127
------------------------------------------------------------------------
066 Chaleunsak Soth 4820 Sunlight Drive Nashville,
TN 37211
------------------------------------------------------------------------
067 Sisavath Southichak 2025 Rice Avenue Nashville, TN
37217
------------------------------------------------------------------------
068 Somphong Vongkhamchanh 633 Mt. Hood Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
069 Thong Chanthavong 1940 Meadow Cliff Dr.
Nashville, TN 37210
------------------------------------------------------------------------
070 Somchay Phadore 5109 Vickory Wood Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
071 Sangvan Phanthourath 1000 Carolyn Ave Nashville, TN
37216
------------------------------------------------------------------------
072 Khamfong Vongsamphanh 3836 Valley Ridge Dr.
Nashville, TN 37211
------------------------------------------------------------------------
073 Samouth Panyavong 4990 Barella Drive Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
074 One Phanthalangsy 4116 Pine Ordchand Place
Antioch, TN 37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
075 David Sengmany 4214 October Woodsor Antioch,
TN 37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
076 Phaeng Vankham 4019 Sunlight Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
077 Keo Panyavong 536 Spann Court Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
078 Amphone Khamhoungvilavong 2482 Saddle Wood CT
Murfreesboro, TN 37219
------------------------------------------------------------------------
079 Nid Keopanya 321 South 17th St. Nashville,
TN 37206
------------------------------------------------------------------------
080 Khamdy Chindavanh 4701 Apollo Dr, Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
081 Phouang Rathsomrath 394 Saint Francis Ave Smyrna,
TN 37167
------------------------------------------------------------------------
082 Thin Ngo 8500 Maudina Apt. B7
Nashville, TN 37209
------------------------------------------------------------------------
083 Kong Amphonephone 5124 Singing Hills Drive
Antioch, TN 37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
084 Khampane Panyavong 1015 Betty Lou LN Lavergne, TN
37086
------------------------------------------------------------------------
085 Khammouane Souvannakhiry 6341 Mt. View Rd. Antioch, TN
37013
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086 Thongma Inta 2714 Mlboro Rd. Lot 118
Antioch, TN 37013
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087 Daliene Panyavong 2714 Murfreesboro Rd. Lot 122
Antioch, TN 37013
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088 Thongbay Sayavongthong 422 Lake Forest Dr. Lavergne,
TN 37086
------------------------------------------------------------------------
089 Kham Phay Sayasack 641 Wood Burn Drive Smyrna, TN
37167
------------------------------------------------------------------------
090 Basay Khammouanvichit 515 Rose Bank Ave Nashville,
TN 37206
------------------------------------------------------------------------
091 Bounmee Sirithai 37A Lutie Street Nashville, TN
37210
------------------------------------------------------------------------
092 Khamdy Mathavong 4312 Lytle Creek Dr.
Murfressboro, TN 37127
------------------------------------------------------------------------
093 Somsak Phouymanivong 2200 Mt. Herman Mlboro, TN
37129
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094 Supranee Senmounnarath 2225 Roseeran Circle Lavergne,
TN 37086
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095 Sisamai Manosinh 2403 Obrien Mlboro, TN 37130
------------------------------------------------------------------------
096 Simone Khounsanthone 2714 Mlboro Rd. Lot 118
Antioch, TN 37013
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097 Bouavanh Phengsavanh 2437 Red Mile Rd.
Murfreesboro, TN 37127
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098 Panh Daranikone 406 Britt Lane Lavergne, TN
37086
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099 Somsack Phongpraseut 2714 Murfreesboro Rd. Lot 113
Antioch, TN 37013
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100 Montho Keomuangtai 140 Beuging Rd. Antioch, TN
37013
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101 Chanthavong Vinavongso 5128 Singing Hills Drive
Antioch, TN 37013
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102 Soybanh Sengsouk 2122 Madison Sgyrae Blvd
Lavergne, TN 37086
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103 Bonnmy Songvilay 639 Wood Burn Drive Smyrna, TN
37167
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104 Khampoun Thepsary 3354 Black Oak Circle
Chattanooga, TN 37415
------------------------------------------------------------------------
105 Phimpha Charernnam 4601 Artelia Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
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106 Khamsy Phommalath 2809 Live Oak Rd. Nashville,
TN 37210
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107 Khamphang Vongsyarath 405 Johnmartin Ave Smyrna, TN
37167
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108 Bouleun Sangmany 4124 October Wood Antioch, TN
37013
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109 Bangthong Chindavanh 4701 Apollo Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
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110 Khamdy Chindavanh 4701 Apollo Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
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111 Srivichat Keopanya 321 South 17th Street
Nashville, TN 37206
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112 Daraphene Keopanya 321 South 17th street
Nashville, TN 37206
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113 Saysamone Sabchareun 708 Pepper Wood Crecent
Antioch, TN 37013
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114 Thisady Sabchareum 5172 Singing Hill Drive
Antioch, TN 37013
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115 Tay Sengbouttarath 2712 Dickerson Road Lot 87
Nashville, TN 37207
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116 Sritan Keopanya 321 South 17th Street
Nashville, TN 37206
------------------------------------------------------------------------
117 Nid Keopanya 321 South 17th Street
Nashville, TN 37206
------------------------------------------------------------------------
118 Vanna Panyavong 536 Spann CT Antioch, TN 37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
119 Keo Panyavong 536 Spann CT Antioch, TN 37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
120 Boeumee Sirithai 37A Lutie Street Nashville, TN
37210
------------------------------------------------------------------------
121 Phaiborn Sirithai 37A Lutie Street Nashville, TN
37210
------------------------------------------------------------------------
122 Vichiene Vongkingkeo 4606 Fannin Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
123 Thongbay Savayvongthong 422 Lake Forest Dr. Lavergne,
TN 37086
------------------------------------------------------------------------
124 Voy Savayvongthong 422 Lake Forest Dr. Lavergne,
Tn 37086
------------------------------------------------------------------------
125 Khampane Panyavong 1015 Betty Lou Lane Lavergne,
TN 37086
------------------------------------------------------------------------
126 Khanmouene Souvannekhiry 6341 Mt. View Rd. Antioch, TN
37013
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127 Daliene Panyavong 2714 Mlbro Rd. Lot 122
Antioch, TN 37013
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128 Basay Khammouanvichit 515 Rose Bank Ave Nashville,
TN 37206
------------------------------------------------------------------------
129 Onh Kounlavong 641 Waywood Cr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
130 Tham Xaiyasombath 609 Jay Ct. Nashville, TN
37210
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131 Khamphet Phommochanh 1506 Sherrill Blvd
Murfressboro, TN 37130
------------------------------------------------------------------------
132 Hae Phommachanh 1506 Sherrill Blvd
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
------------------------------------------------------------------------
133 Lathsamai Saenphansiri 1506 Sherrill Blvd
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
------------------------------------------------------------------------
134 Mone Khounviengxay 212 Oaker Town Rd. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
135 Khiem Bangphexay 446 Tampa Dr. Nashville, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
136 Saysmone Thansamai 2315 Willow Dr. Murfreesboro,
TN 37127
------------------------------------------------------------------------
137 Pathoumphong Soumpholphakdy 793 Summer Hill Atame Dr.
Lavergne, TN 37086
------------------------------------------------------------------------
138 Nhouk Sada 1210 N Acndemy St.
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
------------------------------------------------------------------------
139 Phonprachith Sirinong 4700 Apollo Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
140 Som Sabchaheun 5172 Singing Hill Drive
Antioch, TN 37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
141 Naly Phimvong 813 Gladeview Court Lavergne,
TN 37086
------------------------------------------------------------------------
142 Somchith Sirivong 4700 Apollo Drive Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
143 Saengaloun Soumpholphakdy 793 Summer hill Drive
Lavergne, TN 37086
------------------------------------------------------------------------
144 Orady Syurlayvong 819 Corner CT Murfreesboro, TN
37129
------------------------------------------------------------------------
145 Thongma Ihta 2714 Murfreesboro Road Lot 118
Antioch, TN 37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
146 Phanthalangsy One 4116 Pine Orchand Pl. Antioch,
TN 37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
147 Khamsaveuy Mathabong 4312 Lytle Creek Rd.
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
------------------------------------------------------------------------
148 Champa Prasenerak 412 Asby Place Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
149 Phetdavone Vongsaphay 4621 Cynthia Lane
Murfressboro, TN 37128
------------------------------------------------------------------------
150 Bounmy Sacthiechak 2025 Rice Avenuu Nashville, TN
37217
------------------------------------------------------------------------
151 Sisavat southichuk 2025 Rice Avenue Nashville, TN
37217
------------------------------------------------------------------------
152 Thok Chaleunsak 4820 Sunlight Drive Nashville,
TN 37211
------------------------------------------------------------------------
153 Chaleunsak Soth 4829 Sunlight Drive Nashville,
TN 37211
------------------------------------------------------------------------
154 Homxay Sirapradith 4610 Fanning Drive Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
155 Khamma Panyavong 4990 Barella Drive Antioch,m
TN 37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
156 Vilay Khittaphong 2714 Murfreesboro Rd. Antioch,
TN 37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
157 Thong Chanthavong 1940 Meadow Cliff Nashville,
TN 37210
------------------------------------------------------------------------
158 Soukannha Chanthavong 1940 Meadow Cliff OR
Nashville, TN 37210
------------------------------------------------------------------------
159 Khamphong Vongkhamcharch 633 MT Hood Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
160 Somphong Vongkhamchagh 633 Mt Hood Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
------------------------------------------------------------------------
161 Phim Vankham 4819 Sunlight Nashville, TN
37211
------------------------------------------------------------------------
162 Phaeng Vantham 4815 Sunlight Nashville, TN
37211
------------------------------------------------------------------------
163 Keooudone Souriyavongsa 1688 Chesapeake Drive Athens,
TN 37303
------------------------------------------------------------------------
164 Bounheaun Souriyavongsa 1688 Chesapeake Drive Athens,
TN 37303
------------------------------------------------------------------------
165 Wang Khouanesaknarath 3601 Peerless Dr. Cleveland,
TN 37312
------------------------------------------------------------------------
166 Khamphoua Khouanesaknarath 3601 Peerless Dr. Cleveland,
TN 37312
------------------------------------------------------------------------
167 Phetlamphanh Sayasith 919 Boaz St. Athes, TN 37303
------------------------------------------------------------------------
168 Bounkhoum Sayasith 919 Boaz St. Athen, TN 37303
------------------------------------------------------------------------
169 Bounlom Khouanesaknarath 235 Rose Dr. Athnes, TN 37303
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170 Nhommala Khouanesaknarath 235 Rose Dr. Athens, TN 37303
------------------------------------------------------------------------
171 Desa Sayasak 4574 Artelia Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
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172 Pheneg Sayasak 4574 Artelia Dr. Antioch, TN
37013
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<F-dash>
Lao American National Republican Party
State of Wisconsin
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53215
The Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
United States Congress
Via e-mail: hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
Via fax: 202-225-2610
Dear Congressman Crane:
As a Laotian-American with many family members still living under
the oppressive communist regime in Laos, I urge you to oppose Normal
Trade Relations for Laos until such time as Laos achieves democratic
reforms, respect for human rights and the rule of law.
I believe such opposition is merited by the tremendous record of
human right abuse accumulated over twenty-eight years of oppressive
rule by the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP). These abuses
include the lack of free elections, the prohibition on the right of
assembly and redress of grievances, the arrest and disappearance of
protesters without the right of habeus corpus, and the aggressive
repression of the exercise of religion. The United States Commission on
International Religious Freedom concluded in its February 2003 Report
on Laos that: ``. . . the U.S. government should make clear to the
government of Laos that any such dialogue or other improvement in U.S.-
Laos relations must be based on the immediate cessation of practices
that abuse religious freedom, including arbitrary arrest and detention,
forced renunciations and church closings.''
Perhaps you are familiar with the writings of the late Vietnamese
communist General Tranh Do. Tranh Do was known as the closest confidant
of Ho Chi Minh. Unlike most communist leaders in Southeast Asia, Tranh
Do spoke openly about the inadvisability of extending economic benefits
to an unreformed communist regime. According to Tranh Do, ``
Democratization is a must and the first condition to ensure expression,
freedom of the press, freedom to associate and other fundamental
freedom of a democracy, all talks about national development and
modernization is useless.''
Please, do not reward the oligarchs who control the Laotian
Communist Party. Do not reward the Party bosses and generals who abuse
every tradition of democracy and human rights as they abuse the poor
people of Laos. Now is the time for members of the United States
Congress to take a stand against political and religious persecution.
Oppose unconditional NTR for Laos. Pass NTR for Laos only after Laos
makes real and sincere reform and progress towards democracy, rule of
law and respect for basic human rights.
Sincerely,
Bounliane Rajphoumy
Regional Vice President
Lao American National Republican Party
State of Wisconsin
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Lao Community in Victoria
Victoria, 3031 Australia
18 April 2003
Honourable US. Congressman Philip M. Crane,
Chairman of the Subcommittee on Trade of the Committee on Ways and
Means,
US. House of Representatives, Washington D.C
Dear Honorable Philip M.Crane,
Re: NTR to Laos
Thank you for the opportunity to voice our concern about the US
wanting to grant NTR to Laos.
We are private Australian citizen who were born in Laos and had
lived through the war in Laos before becoming refugees and now as
naturalized Australians. We are writing this letter to you and your
Committee that we share the aspiration of the American people's good
intention to improve the living standard of the Lao people by wanting
to grant NTR to Laos.
We also see that in the long-term, the people of Laos will need
NTR, as they are part of this global community, but we have very strong
reservation about what NTR can do for Laos at this point in time
without conditions.
NTR, as a new tool, is expected to bring changes in Laos,
especially economic and political changes and at the same time to
promote trade between the US and Laos. As outlined byAmbassador Douglas
A. Hartwick's Public Remark on January 25, 2003, the US Government
hopes that NTR will help ``the US promote other changes'', including
``stronger rule of law: commercial, environmental, treatment of
workers, even human rights.'' Ultimately, from the US point of view,
NTR will bring about ``real changes'' in Laos, leading to ``greater
economic and political freedoms in Laos, stronger rule of law and a
better life for those involved in trade destined for the U.S. market or
doing business with Americans.''
While in theory, the US intention is noble and good and we all want
to want to see the fruit ripened for the Lao people.
But Laos, as a country and as a nation is not poor or lacking in
resources but the real problem in Laos is directly related to two
fundamental issues: (1) the non-conducive ideological policies of the
current Phak Pasason Lao (Lao People's Revolutionary Party) that the
Party is the ``central nucleus'' of Laos, having the ultimate power
above the law; (2) the Vietnamese domination of Laos.
This is the reason behind our strong view that the current format
of NTR, as in its generic format or as similar to the Cambodian
version, will NOT be able to deliver the intended US ideal, as per
Hartwick's Public Remark, for Laos.
We like to suggest that serious consideration is required and the
following issues need to be taken while deliberating the granting of
NTR for Laos:
1. The current Lao Government System is not conducive for NTR.
The current Lao Government has been in power since 1975, as one
Party, authoritarian system that has the ultimate power above the law
of the land as outlined clearly in Article 3 of the 1991 Lao
Constitution which states that ``The rights of the multi-ethnic people
to be the masters of the country are exercised and ensured through the
functioning of the political system with the Lao People's Revolutionary
Party as its leading nucleus''.
The real problem in Laos is the direct result of the divisive, non-
reconciliatory, and non-conducive ideological policies of the current
Phak Pasason Lao (Lao People's Revolutionary Party), being the
``central nucleus'' of Laos--the seat of power. The resultant effect of
these policies is the continuation of economic mismanagement, lack of
business and legal accountability, political instability, Human Right
violation, religious persecutions, racial disharmony and narcotic and
opium trafficking among many other things.
More importantly, the Laos legal system and business practices in
Laos remain far from being able to operate or being compatible within
the WTO rules and laws, or acceptable to the IRS, the Dept of Commerce,
the Treasury Department and other trading nations. The bottom line is
that Laos, with its current system of governing, is not ready for NTR.
Hence, to have any ``real changes'' in Laos, as the US intended,
the NTR needs to be granted only as a ``Package'' to contain PRE-EMPTED
MEASURES and
CONDITIONS that are workable, measurable and effective for a drastic
ideological and fundamental changes in Laos to pave the way for a truly
democratic government that will provide the political stability for
economic freedom to the people of Laos.
2. Laos has been a puppet government of Vietnam_this need to change:
This Committee need no reminder that the current Lao Governmenthas
been a puppet government of Vietnam since 1975 and that the political
instability in Laos, including the past bombings, the recent bus
killing at Vang Vieng--Kasi region and other resistance activities are
the direct opposition to the Vietnamisation of Laos. As long as Vietnam
continues to have a firm grip in Laos, and the current regime remains
unchanged, there will be NO improvement in human rights, oppression,
corruption and internal rebellion. Hence, the NTR Package needs to
contain mechanism to free Laos from the grip of Vietnam, to ensure
political stability in Laos.
3. National Reconciliation is required.
The Committee also needs no reminder that in 1961, the US
Government decided to arm the people of Laos to fight the US war
against the communist North Vietnam. Subsequent, the US loyal allies,
including the Hmong, are left to the mercy of Vietnam when the US
withdraw from Indochina--many of these people--loyal US allied such as
the Hmong, are still suffering inhumanly in the jungle of Laos. More
than 300,000 freedom-loving Lao have left the country since 1975,
causing a brain drain for Laos, and these people now settled around the
world. For Laos to have a real future, reconciliation among the Lao
people, inside and outside Laos, in town or in the jungle, is a
pressing issue. Without this national reconciliation, and participation
by all the Lao people, there will be little prospect for a lasting and
meaningful political freedom to the people of Laos.
Hence, for Laos to have any ``real changes'' and for the US to be
able to deliver the US promise to the people of Laos, fundamental
changes in Laos
are required_no more, no less as it is required in the case of
Afghanistan and Iraq. Without these fundamental changes in Laos, NTR
will be no more than a cosmetic solution to the Lao problem as
experienced by past US administrations that prescribed a long list of
band-aids solution to Laos.
Conclusion:
If the US wanting any ``real changes'' in Laos, and to help the
``common people of Laos'', NTR needs to be a ``Total Package'' with
pre-empted measures and conditions to pave the way for Laos to become a
truly democratic and independent nation. Without these fundamental
changes, it will be another mistake of the United States of America,
being the most powerful country on Earth, but continuing to add a long
list of failures in Laos.
Laos may not be a ``key stone'' country in Asia any more but the
Lao people have sacrifice so much for the US during the Vietnam War,
and they were doing so without any formal commitment or signed document
from the US people. Now, the people of America as champions of peace
and democracy, can help the people of Laos to have the similar
opportunity as the Iraqi people to create their future by their own
free-willing spirit. Once and for all, reality dictates that
fundamental changes are required in Laos_not just band-aid solution_and
it is high noon that the US, with its coalition, can_if willing as in
Afghanistan and Iraq_take up the leadership and deliver a comprehensive
package to Laos, with or without NTR to pave the way for true
``economic and political freedom'' for the common people of Laos.
You're most faithfully,
Saly Saygnabouth
President of Lao people National Liberation Front of Australia
For and on behalf of the Lao Community of Victoria.
Pao Saykao, MD
Director of P&N Saykao Pty Ltd
For and on behalf of the Lao Community of Victoria.
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Lao Diaspora
Paris, France
10 April 2003
The Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
Committees on Ways and Means
United States Congress
Mr. President,
Honorable Members of the `Ways and Means' Commission,
The representatives of the Lao Diaspora, co-signatories of the
present letter, would first of all like to greet the quality of the
report published on the 20<SUP>th</SUP> of March 2003 in Washington by
the US Commission on International Religious Freedom, as well as the
report on Human Rights published on the 31<SUP>st</SUP> of March by the
State Department. These documents recount with objectivity and accuracy
the very concerning situation of the civil liberties and fundamental
rights in the Lao Popular Democratic Republic, country led by an
authoritarian regime since the taking of power by the Communist Party
in 1975.
Relying on the conclusions of the USCIRF, which denounce the
serious violations of civil liberties in Laos and recommend to the
American Administration to ``increase the pressure''* upon the Lao
communist regime and to send it a ``clear''* signal by letting it know
that the improvement of the relations between Washington and Vientiane
depended upon the improvement of the situation of human rights in Laos,
we were shocked and even hurt by the recent campaign led by Douglas
HARTWICK, US Ambassador to Laos, in favor of the granting of the
`Normal Trade Relations' (NTR) to the LPDR. To us, such as step is both
counter-productive and inappropriate.
Our lack of understanding of the steps taken by Mr. HARTWICK is
even greater when looking at the contents of the report of the State
Department for the year 2002, which stresses that the LPDR government
``continues to commit serious abuses'' of human rights, and that the
Lao ``citizens do not have the right to change their government''.**
Like the majority of Lao-Americans, we insist in letting known
publicly that we are firmly opposed to the granting of the NTR status
to the LPDR as long as the communist leaders will not show tangible,
significant and real evidence of the efforts they have made in terms of
democracy and respect of human rights.
Too many `gifts' have been made to this regime, and to no avail:
loans of hundreds of millions of dollars, aids of hundreds of millions
of dollars, remission of debts, donations in kind . . . Offering this
time the NTR status without asking for anything in return will appear
to the Lao people as a `reward' for dictatorship, for repression, for
torture, for violations of human rights, for social injustice, for
abuses of power, and for corruption, area in which the leaders of the
communist party have now become experts.
In its report, the USCIRF rightfully stressed that the present time
was a ``pivotal moment in the history of Laos and US-Laos relations.
The United States has a unique opportunity to engage the government and
people of Laos in a process of reform that would end the suppression of
religious freedom and other related human rights''.*
Among the measures to be taken, the Commission recommended the
opening by the US government of a ``bilateral human rights dialogue''
with the government of Laos, and stressed that ``this dialogue should
also address the broader range of human rights concerns in Laos, many
of which are related to religious freedom violations, such as torture
and other forms of ill-treatment, unlawful arrest or detention, absence
of due process, and violations of the rights of freedom of expression,
association and peaceful assembly''.*
Like the USCIRF, we are believe that Laos is at a `turning point'
in its history and that the United States of America, well-known for
their actions in favor of liberty, democracy and justice around the
world, can influence in a positive way the future evolution of the
country by maintaining and reinforcing pressure upon the regime when it
comes to civil liberties and human rights.
For these reasons, and relying upon the conclusions drawn by the
report of the USCIRF and the report of the State Department, we ask
that the American Administration reconsiders its decision to grant the
NTR status to the Lao PDR.
We also ask that the Honorable Members of Congress of the United
States of America be opposed to the granting of the NTR status as long
as the recommendations of the US Commission on International Religious
Freedom have not been followed with honestly and efficiently by the Lao
communist regime.
To us, the significant `gestures' deserving the NTR status include
the immediate and unconditional release of prisoners of conscience
whose only `wrongdoing' was to denounce peacefully the drifts of the
regime, to ask for the respect of fundamental rights, of social
justice, and to call for an evolution towards multipartism.
Among these prisoners are the two leaders of the `Social Democratic
Party', Mr. Latsamy KHAMPHOUI and Mr. Feng SACKCHITTAPHONG who have now
been detained for 12 years in inhuman conditions, as well as the five
leaders of the students movement of the 26<SUP>th</SUP> of October 1999
who were arrested and then disappeared since that peaceful march in
Vientiane: Mr. Thongpaseuth KEUAKOUN, Mr. Khamphouvieng SISA-AT, Mr.
Seng-Aloun PHENGPHANH, Mr. Bouavanh CHANMANIVONG and Mr. KEOCHAY,
symbols of the peaceful struggle for the Lao youth and Lao democrats.
Concerning the five leaders of the `26<SUP>th</SUP> of October
Movement', the report of the State Department sadly announced their
sentence to ``20 years of imprisonment''** in ``a closed trial''**, a
sanction that appears to us as another evidence of the dictatorial
nature of the regime and of the will of the communist leaders not only
to continue to repress civil liberties and democracy, but also of
scoffing at the international community as to human rights. Such a
behavior should be enough justification for the refusal of the
NTR status to this ruthless regime.
Another `gesture' showing a contribution to the national
reconciliation would be the cessation of all acts of violence against
ethnic or religious minorities in the country, and to honor the memory
of the millions of victims of the communist repression.
Mr. President,
Honorable Members of the Commission,
Against the leaders of the Unique Party, whose bad faith and
cynicism are now legendary, the NTR status is, as well stressed by the
USCIRF, one of the last measures of peaceful pressure for those who
aspire to liberty, democracy and justice.
It is in the name if these values dear to the great people of
America that we ask that you fully take into account our request before
granting the LPDR the `National Trade Relations' status, the prime
objective of which is to favor liberty, democracy, and development in
the world.
Without liberty, without democracy, without a reconciliation
between the Laotians, Laos will not be able to achieve a degree of
development such that will change its status of one of the poorest
country of the planet after 27 years of communist management and in
spite of billions of dollars of loans and aids granted to the regime.
______
Co-signatories:
- Association Fa Ngum--Paris, France
- Fondation Savang Vatthana--Paris, France
- Assemblee des Representants des Lao a l'Etranger--Paris, France
- Lao Houam Phao (Unity of the Lao People)--Paris, France
- Party of the Royal Government of Laos (PGVT)--Paris, France
- Mouvement pour la Democratie au Laos (MDL)--Paris, France
- Solidarite des Jeunes Lao--Paris, France
- Association des Rescapes des Camps de la Mort--Paris, France
- Association Sithandone Samphan--Paris, France
- Amicale des Militaires Lao (Mittaphab Thahane Lao)--Paris, France
- Association Samphan Lao Lane Xang--Paris, France
- Le Laos Vivant--Nimes, France
- Association Lao Phatthine en Alsace--Strasbourg, France
- Parti Nation Lao--Paris, France
- Association Ami Hmong--Paris, France
- Association Lao Marne la Vallee--Paris, France
- Association Phinong Champassak--Paris, France
- Association Sananikone--Paris, France
- Association Mittaphab Houaphanh--Paris, France
- Organisation Pacifique Lao pour le Developpement Communautaire--
Paris, France
- Association Lao Houam Samphanh--Paris, France
- Association Hom Dham--Roubaix, France
- Association Ex Institut Royal de Droit et d'Administration au Laos--
Paris, France
- Association Arts et Cultures Lao--Bois, France
- Lao American National Republican Party--USA
- Lao Students Movement for Democracy--Seattle, USA
- Lao Human Rights Council, Inc.--Wisconsin, USA
- United League for Democracy in Laos--Virginia, USA
- United Lao Movement for Democracy of Minnesota--USA
- Lao Veterans of America--California, USA
- Association des Anciens Combattants Lao--Montreal, Canada
- Ligue Laotienne pour les Droits de l'Homme au Laos--Montreal, Canada
- Council of Lao Representative Abroad for Oceanic Region--Australia
- Association Phoutha Seri Praxathipatay--Bruxelles, Belgique
- Organisation Lao Students for Freedom, Independance and Democracy--
Poland
- Lao Movement for Human Rights (LMHR)--France
Coordination ensured by: The Lao Movement for Human Rights (LMHR);
9, rue Bazard, 77200 Torcy, France; Phone-Fax: 33 (0) 1 60 06 57 06; e-
mail: mldh@chello.fr
* United States Commission on International Religious Freedom,
USCIRF; Report on Laos, February 2003; 800 North Capitol Street, NW
Suite 790, Washington, DC 2002; Phone: 202 523 3240; Fax: 202 253 5020;
www.uscirf.gov
** US Department State--Country Report on Human Rights Practices
2002, March 2003--Chapter on Laos; Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights,
and Labor; 2201 C Street NW, Washington, DC 20520; www.state.gov.
<F-dash>
Lao Human Rights Council, Inc., U.S.A.
Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54702
April 9, 2003
The Honorable Philip M. Crane,
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
and the Honorable Sander M. Levin,
Ranking Member of the Subcommittee
and all Members of the Committee on Ways and Means
and all Members of the U.S. House of Representatives
Dear Chairman Crane and Ranking Member Levin, and all Members of
the U.S. House of Representatives:
The purpose of this letter is to request the U.S. Congress, the
White House, and the U.S. Department of State to oppose and to reject
the proposal of Normal Trade Relations (NTR) to the dictatorship and
Communist Lao government of the Lao People's Democratic Republic (LPDR)
because (1) this Communist Lao government is committing genocide in
Laos; (2) the LPDR is a terrorist government; (3) the Communist
government of the LPDR is violating human rights; (4) the LPDR is
violating freedom of religion; (5) there are Vietnamese domination and
biological and chemical warfare in Laos; (6) war crimes have occurred
in Laos; (7) the Communist Lao government of the LPDR is the ``king''
of opium production and trade in Laos; (8) of the report from the Fact-
Finding Commission on Laos; and (9) the LPDR arrested, imprisoned and
tortured political prisoners in Laos.
Therefore, the Lao Human Rights Council, Inc., and its members and
the majority of Hmong and Lao American people in the United States are
requesting you and other members of the U.S. Congress and U.S. Senators
to oppose and reject NTR to the LPDR because of the following reasons:
1. Genocide in Laos
In January 2003, U.S. Ambassador to the LPDR Douglas A. Hartwick
stated in a report to many Hmong and Lao American people in the United
States, ``Many of you remember vividly that after the Pathet Lao came
to power in 1975, still actively assisted by Vietnam, they waged an
intensive effort against Hmong, Khmer and other insurgents who were
associated with the previous royal government, leading to the tragic
deaths of thousands.'' (Speech and public remarks by the U.S.
Ambassador to the LPDR, Douglas A. Hartwick, January 25 and 26, 2003)
2. The LPDR is a Terrorist Government
On March 25, 2003, Radio Free Asia-Lao Service and the Voice of
America (VOA)-Lao Service reported that there were more than 10,000
Laotian people demonstrated in Vientiane, Laos on March 23, 2003. The
purposes of the demonstration were to condemn and to oppose the U.S.
policy toward the current government of Iraq under President Saddam
Hussein. The former Ambassador of the LPDR to Washington, D.C., and the
current Ambassador of the LPDR to Thailand, Hiem Phommachanh, also
stated on the VOA that the Lao government of the LPDR opposed and
condemned the war against Iraq because the U.S. government violated the
Charter of the United Nations and international law. Iraq and the LPDR
established full diplomatic relations, economic, educational, cultural,
trade, political and military relations.
In Laos, the Communist Lao government of the LPDR did not allow
people to demonstrate inside Laos. In the past, many people who
demonstrated against genocide, ethnic cleansing war, and human rights
violations against people in Laos were arrested, imprisoned, tortured
and killed. Why did the Communist Lao government of the LPDR allow more
than 10,000 people to demonstrate in Vientiane, Laos, on March 23,
2003? The answer is that the Communist Lao government of the LPDR fully
supports the Saddam Hussein government and international terrorism and
the production and use of biological and chemical weapons.
On September 20, 2001, President George W. Bush addressed the U.S.
Congress and the American people:
``Our war on terror begins with Al Qaeda, but it does not end
there. It will not end until every terrorist group of global reach has
been found, stopped and defeated.
``And we will pursue nations that provide aid or safe haven to
terrorism. Every nation, in every region, now has a decision to make.
Either you are with us, or you are with the terrorists. From this day
forward, any nation that continues to harbor or support terrorism will
be regarded by the United States as a hostile regime.''
(The White House, address to a Joint Session of Congress and the
American people, September 20, 2001.)
Consequently, the Communist Lao government of the LPDR is a
terrorist government and regime because the Communist Lao government of
the LPDR supports the Iraqi government under President Saddam Hussein.
If the Iraqi government under Saddam Hussein is a terrorist government
and terrorist regime., then the Communist Lao government is also a
terrorist government because this Communist Lao government of the LPDR
is a supporter of the current Iraqi government. If the current Iraqi
government is a ``threat'' to American people and the United States,
then the Communist Lao government of the LPDR is also a ``threat'' to
the United States. If the current Iraqi government is an ``enemy'' of
the United States, then the Communist Lao government of the LPDR is
also an ``enemy'' of the United States. If the production, possession
and uses of ``biological and chemical weapons'' by the Iraqi government
are a ``threat'' to the United States, then the Communist Lao
government of the LPDR is also a ``threat'' to the United States,
because this Communist Lao government has used ``biological and
chemical weapons'' to kill many thousands of Hmong and Lao people and
former CIA soldiers in Laos from 1975 to 2003.
3. The Communist Lao Government of the LPDR Violates Human Rights
The Country Reports on Human Rights Practices on Laos of 2002
reported:
``The Lao People's Democratic Republic is an authoritarian,
Communist, one-party state ruled by the Lao People's Revolutionary
Party (LPDR).
``Members of the security forces abused detainees, especially those
suspected of insurgent or anti-government activity. Prisoners were
abused and tortured, and prison conditions generally are extremely
harsh and life-threatening.
``The government restricted freedom of speech, the press, assembly,
and association.
``There are no domestic, non-governmental human rights
organizations, and the government does not have a formal procedure for
registration. Any organization wishing to investigate and publically
criticize the government's human rights policies would face serious
obstacles if it were permitted to operate at all.
``In 1999 and 2000, a number of Hmong returnees were forced to
renounce their Christian faith, and the authorities closed one church
in a returnee village.
``The government continued to restrict freedom of religion'' in
Laos.''
(Country Reports on Human Rights Practices of 2002, U.S. Department
of State, released on March 31, 2003)
The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom
released a report on Laos in February 2003 which contained:
``Since the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPDR) assumed power
in 1975, there has been extensive government interference with and
restrictions on all religious communities. In more recent years, the
government has focused its repression on religions that are relatively
new to Laos, including Protestant Christianity. During this time
period, the government of Laos has engaged in particularly severe
violations of religious freedom as defined in the International
Religious Freedom Act of 1998 (IRFA). These include the arrest,
prolonged detention, and imprisonment of members of religious
minorities on account of their religious activities. In addition, Lao
officials have forced Christians to renounce their faith. At the same
time, dozens of churches have been closed.''
4. The LPDR Violated Freedom of Religion
The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom
``makes the following recommendations to the U.S. government'':
``The President should designate Laos as a Country of Particular
Concern (CPC) to make clear U.S. concerns over particularly severe
violations of religious freedom in Laos, thus engaging the U.S.
government in a process to promote changes that would advance legal as
well as practical protections of freedom of religion and related human
rights in that country.''
(``Report on Laos,'' U.S. Commission on International Religious
Freedom,'' February 2003)
Anthony C. Lobaido reported that, ``persecution of Christians
inside Laos, including forcing them to drink blood, imprisonment and
even murder, has been well-documented by World Net Daily.''
(Anthony C. Lobaido, ``Christian Persecution,'' 2001
WorldNetDaily.com)
Anthony C. Lobaido reported that, ``Everyone knows that the
government of Laos used biochemical weapons sent by the Russians for
use against the Hmong'' people in Laos.
Witnesses and leaders of religion in Laos have reported that the
Communist Lao government of the LPDR arrested and imprisoned more than
600 Hmong and Lao Christians and believers and closed down more than 65
Christian churches and religious institutions and organizations in
Luang Prabang, Phongsali; Savannakhet; Louang Nantha; Oudomxai;
Xaignabouri; Champasak; Vientiane; Xieng Khouang; Houapham; and
Borikhamxai provinces as well as other provinces in Laos between 2002
and 2003.
5. Vietnamese Domination and Chemical Warfare in Laos
Tim Laard of BBC News Agency reported that ``Vietnam also has
thousands of advisers in Laos--political as well as military.
Officially, the relationship is described by Vietnam as closer than
lips and teeth--and by Laos as deeper than the waters of the Mekong''
River. (BBC News, 27 August 2001.)
Mr. Yang Toua Thao, Moua Toua Ter, Herr Chai, Vang Chue Chi and
Vang Nhia, along with many other witnesses and people in Laos, reported
in 2003 that many thousands of Vietnamese soldiers, troops and advisers
have been supporting the Communist Lao government of the LPDR to
conduct an ethnic cleansing war, genocide and biological and chemical
warfare against many Hmong and Lao people and former CIA soldiers in
Laos from 1975 to 2003, because of the legacy of U.S.-Hmong relations
and cooperation during the Vietnam War.
6. War Crimes in Laos
Mr. Yang Toua Thao, Moua Toua Ter, and many other witnesses and
victims in the Xaisomboun Special Region and other provinces in Laos
reported that the Communist Lao government of the LPDR and the
Communist Vietnamese government of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam
killed over ``300,000 people'' in Laos from 1975 to 2003. Consequently,
this is ``war crimes, crimes against peace and crimes against
humanity.'' This is a violation of the Charter of the United Nations,
the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and other international
human rights conventions, laws and treaties.
7. The Communist Lao Government of the LPDR is the ``King'' of Opium
Production and Trade
In 2003, the U.S. Department of State released a report which
included Laos as one of 23 countries in the world which produced
``opium'' and other types of ``illegal narcotics'' or ``illegal drugs''
and ``heroin.''
``Lao government employees, and the growing evidence of significant
trafficking inside Laos, it must be assumed that some officials and
military personnel receive bribes from illicit drug trafficking. Drug
traffickers in Laos reportedly are receiving protection from senior
level officials who themselves may be involved.'' (U.S. Department of
State, released on January 31, 2003 and White House Press Release,
January 31, 2003.)
As a result, the Communist Lao government of the LPDR is a King or
Lord of Opium production and trade in Laos.
8. Report from the Fact-Finding Commission on Laos
On January 18, 2002, and February 5, 2002, the Fact-Finding
Commission on Laos released its report on the current conditions in
Laos. This report contains the following:
American Veteran Groups
There are 20 veteran groups consisting of 17,177 people still
living in the jungles defending themselves from the Communist Lao
government. They have 3,334 soldiers. While the veterans have not given
up the hope for a democratic government in Laos, or the ideals they
fought for in the Secret War, their military actions are not offensive,
but are to protect themselves and their families in the jungles from
the Pathet Lao and North Vietnamese troops.
These 20 veteran groups currently live in the mountains and jungles
all over the country of Laos.
North Vietnamese Troops
The Fact-Finding Commission found that Vietnamese troops, in
violation of treaties signed at the end of the war, are stationed in
Laos. In conjunction with the Pathet Lao forces, they use helicopters,
MI 6, MI 8, and MI 17, to bomb the veterans and their families living
in the jungles. Chemical weapons manufactured in Vietnam are being used
against the people in the jungles.
Since December 1, 1999, the Communist government of Laos has
ordered more forces from North Vietnam. Seventeen military bases, with
several battalions of North Vietnamese Army troops, were identified.
They are strategically located in regions near the mountain locations
where the veterans and their families are located.
Military Bases with North Vietnamese Troops
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Estimated Troop
Strength
Location Province (combined North
Vietnamese and
Pathet Lao)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Baben........................ Louang Namtha..... 15,000 (Regiment
#442)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Muang Na..................... Louang Phrabang... 15,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. Muang Soie................... Xieng Khouang..... 7,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. Ban Ban...................... Xieng Khouang..... 7,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. Muang Xay Som Boun........... Xieng Khouang..... 15,000 (Regiment
Special Zone.................... #335)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. Na Mouang/Vangviang.......... Vientiane......... 7,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. Pakha/Mouang Fouang.......... Vientiane......... 7,500 (Battalion
#614)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. Vientiane.................... Vientiane......... 15,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. Muang Paksan................. Borikhan.......... 7,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. Ban Nam..................... Borikhan.......... 2,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. Ban Lakxao.................. Borikhan.......... 2,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
12. Cong Thong.................. Borikhan.......... 2,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
13. Saravanh.................... Saravanh.......... 5,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
14. Xekong...................... Xekong............ 10,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
15. Pakse....................... Champasak......... 8,000 (Regiment
#5)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
16. Muang Moon.................. Champasak......... 3,000 (Battalion
#11)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
17. Attapu...................... Attapu............ 4,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
``An American Nail''
The genocide of these people is based on their allegiance to the
United States. The Communists refer to ``the American nail in their
head'' of those who fought for the United States and their descendants.
This American mentality is the enemy of the Communist philosophy.
America is their greatest enemy. In their thinking, this ``American
Nail'' is in the genes, so all men, women, and children must be
exterminated.
Chemical Warfare
The majority of those in the mountains who have died have done so
because of chemical poisons. In violation of international law the
Communists are using chemical weapons against the people in the
mountains. Bombs described as having white, black, yellow, or green
smoke cause vomiting of blood, severe diarrhea with blood, and death
within twenty-four hours. Many die from chemicals sprayed on plants and
into streams. Chemicals have nearly destroyed the Cassava, which is so
important to the survival of those in the mountains. The latest use of
chemical bombing was on December 5, 2001.
Bombing
The Communist Pathet Lao government uses helicopters, MI 6, MI8,
and MI 17 to bomb the veterans and their families living in the
jungles. (Evidence of this is documented in the twelve-minute video,
``The Secret War in Laos Continues (1975-Present Time).''
Land Mines
Land mines are a serious problem for the people in the mountains.
The mines are placed along trails and around sources of food. Women and
children looking for food are the most frequent casualties.
Capture and Torture
Men who are captured are dismembered. Their penises are cut off and
placed in their mouths signifying their inability to pass on their
``American mentality'' to future generations.
Women when captured are raped, then killed. Some are tied to stakes
and left to die from exposure. Others have a sharp bamboo stick shoved
through their vagina up into their chest cavity, the stick is rolled,
and they are left to bleed to death. This is a sign they can no longer
produce those who would become enemies of the Communists.
Children who are captured because they are unable to keep up with
the fleeing adults have their throats cut or are killed by being swung
around and having their heads bashed against trees. There was one
report of three children being skewered together on a bamboo pole.
(Source: February 5, 2002 Report on Current Conditions in Laos for the
Veterans of the U.S. Secret War. Prepared by: The Fact-Finding
Commission on Laos.)
According to the evidence and report of the Fact-Finding Commission
on Laos of February 5, 2002, there are more than 122,500 Communist
Pathet Lao and Communist Vietnamese soldiers who are stationed in
seventeen locations in Laos. The Commission also reported that the
objectives of the Communist Vietnamese government and soldiers in Laos
are to direct, support and assist the Communist Lao government of the
Lao People's Democratic Republic (LPDR) to conduct the war and genocide
against Hmong and Lao people in Laos. Consequently, the war in Laos
from 1975 to the present time is an international war. This is because
foreign soldiers and foreign governments have engaged in and supported
the war and genocide against former Hmong and Lao veterans, former CIA
soldiers, and Hmong and Lao people who are civilians, including men,
women and children, being conducted by the Communist Lao government of
the LPDR and the government of Vietnam during the past 27 years.
On March 10, 2003, the Fact-Finding Commission o n Laos reported on
February 19, 2003, that ``the government of the Lao People's Democratic
Republic (LPDR) used two MI-8 helicopters to drop bombs and launch
rockets on their (Tong Chia Vue and Wameng Yang) village at Nyuen Nam
Xieng, Borikhamxay Province. The Communists led three sorties that day
and killed 55 people. A total of five hundred people were exposed to
chemical gas and wounded by bomb explosions and gunfire.'' (News
Release of the Fact-Finding Commission on Laos, March 10, 2003.)
9. Political Prisoners in Laos
Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger admitted in his book
Years of Upheaval of 1982 that:
``At this writing, Laos is under Communist rule. Over 40,000
Vietnamese troops remain as an occupation force. Souvanna is under
house arrest. Between 10,000 and 30,000 political prisoners are in
labor camps in the name of re-education. The Hmong (Meo) tribesmen who
fought the North Vietnamese without help are being systematically
exterminated, some by poison gas. Hundreds of thousands of Laotians
have fled in terror to Thailand.''
Information from reliable source in Vientiane, Laos, reported and
confirmed that Mr. Thongsouk Saysangkhi, a Lao political prisoner of
conscience, died at the end of February 1998 inside a concentration
camp in Northern Province, Laos.
In October 1990, Thongsouk, Latsami Khamphoui and Feng
Sakchittaphong were arrested and imprisoned by the Communist Lao
government because of their peaceful call for economic, social and
political reforms and change from Communism to Capitalism in the Lao
People's Democratic Republic (LPDR). All three men were brought to
trial in November 1992. The Communist Court and the Communist Lao
government sentenced them to 14 years in prison.
In 1992, the U.S. government and the United High Commissioner for
Refugees (UNHCR) repatriated Mr. Vue Mai, a leader of Hmong refugees in
Thailand to Communist Laos in order to repatriate all Hmong and Lao
refugees in Thailand to Communist Laos. Witnesses in Laos reported that
the Communist Lao government arrested, imprisoned, tortured and killed
Mr. Vue Mai, a leader of Hmong returnees in Laos in 1993.
On April 19, 1999, Communist Lao agents and authorities arrested
and imprisoned Mr. Houa Ly and Mr. Michael Vang in Ban Houa Xay, Bokeo
Province, Laos. Witnesses in Laos reported that Communist Lao
authorities tortured and killed Houa Ly and Michael Vang in Laos. They
were Hmong-American citizens from the United States. As a result, we
know that the legacies of Hmong-American relations and cooperation
during the Cold War are direct factors for the Communist Lao and
Vietnamese governments to commit ethnic cleansing warfare and genocide
against many thousands of people in Laos and the two Hmong-American
citizens.
Witnesses in Vientiane, Laos, provided reliable sources and
information to the Lao Human Rights Council, Inc. in the United States,
that Mr. Chue Ma Vang, a Hmong returnee and political prisoner, died in
Vientiane, Laos, on December 4, 2002. Mr. Chue Ma Vang was one of the
thirteen Hmong returnees and political prisoners in a maximum security
cell at Sam Khe political prison, Vientiane, Laos. In 1995, Mr. Chue Ma
Vang and twelve other Hmong returnees were forced to return from
Thailand to Laos. Mr. Chue Ma Vang died because the Communist Lao
government of the Lao People's Democratic Republic (LPDR) did not
provide enough food and other basic human needs to him and many other
political prisoners in the Sam Khe political prison. The other Hmong
political prisoners who were returnees are: Mr. Wang Chue Yang, Tong
Toua Vang, Xai Xang Chang, Pang Toua Lee, Lee Vang, Xai Toua Vang, Xang
Her, Cher Tong Lee, Chang Teng Thao, Yong Xao Her, Shoua Thao, and Xia
Dang Thao. They and many hundreds of other Hmong and Lao returnees and
other Hmong and Lao people are currently locked in the Sam Khe
political prison in Vientiane, Laos.
On October 26, 1999, the Communist Lao government of the LPDR
arrested, imprisoned, and tortured Mr. Thongpaseuth Kauakhoun, Seng-
Sloun Phengphanh, Khamphouvieng Sisa-at, Bouavanh Chammanivong,
Keochay, and many other people who organized a demonstration in
Vientiane Laos. Witnesses in Laos reported in 2003 that the Communist
Lao government of the LPDR arrested and imprisoned approximately 25,000
Hmong and Lao people in Laos from 1990 to 2003.
Peace Before NTR for Laos
We support and endorse the reports, evidence, information and peace
proposals from Mr. Moua Toua Ter, Yang Toua Thao, Vang Chue Chi, Her
Chai and Vang Nhia, leaders of Hmong and Lao democratic and human
rights movements in the Xaisomboun Special Region, Northern Laos, which
are enclosed with this letter. On January 17, 2003, the delegates of
the Lao Human Rights Council and the Fact-Finding Commission on Laos
met with the U.S. Ambassador to the LPDR, Douglas A. Hartwick, at the
U.S. Department of State. We submitted a videotape entitled The War and
Genocide in Laos Since 1975, Part II and other accurate evidence on the
ethnic cleansing war, genocide and biological and chemical warfare
against former CIA soldiers, Hmong and Lao people in the Xaisomboun
Special Region, Northern Laos, to Ambassador Hartwick and the Laos Desk
Officer, Kim Karsian, U.S. Department of State. We requested the U.S.
Department of State:
1. Lto take all necessary action plans to investigate and stop the
use of biological and chemical weapons against Hmong and Lao people and
former CIA soldiers in Laos;
2. Lto take all necessary action plans to stop the ethnic cleansing
war, genocide and biological and chemical warfare in Laos;
3. Lto plan and take all necessary actions to bring a true peace to
Hmong and Lao people in Laos before the U.S. government considers NTR
for the Communist Lao government of the LPDR.
Members of the U.S. Congress, U.S. Senators, President of the
United States, and Secretary of State, we have submitted many letters,
documents and evidence on the true situations in Laos to many officials
of the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Embassy in Laos. However,
these officials have continued to ignore this true information and
situations in Laos. These officials asked for NTR for the LPDR without
considering the genocide, human rights violations, ethnic cleansing
war, biological and chemical warfare and terrorism against Hmong and
Lao people and former CIA soldiers in Laos. Therefore, we request that
the U.S. Congress, the White House, the U.S. Department of State, and
the U.S. Embassy in Laos should recognize the cries out for peace,
freedom, democracy, human rights and survival of former CIA soldiers
and many other Hmong and Lao people in Laos before the U.S. government
considers NTR for the LPDR.
Problems of NTR for the LPDR
If the U.S. Congress, the White House and the U.S. Department of
State grant NTR to the LPDR, NTR will empower the Communist Lao
government:
1. Lto continue to maintain and develop Communism in Laos;
2. Lto continue to conduct ethnic cleansing war, genocide and
biological and chemical warfare against people in Laos;
3. Lto receive revenue for international terrorism.
Therefore, we would like to propose that the U.S. government must
not grant NTR to the Communist Lao government of the LPDR until it
completely stops the ethnic cleansing war, genocide, human rights
violations and biological and chemical warfare against former CIA
soldiers and other Hmong and Lao people in Laos. The U.S. government
must not help the violators of peace--the LPDR. The U.S. government
must help the victims and those people who have cried out for peace in
Laos.
Conclusion
Terrorist Government of the LPDR is not qualified to receive NTR
Consequently, the Lao Human Rights Council, Inc., its members and
the majority of Hmong and Lao American people in the United States and
Mr. Yang Toua Thao, Moua Toua Ter, Vang Chue Chi, Vang Nhia, Vang Chai,
Herr Chai, and many other Hmong and Lao people inside Laos appreciate
being able to request that the U.S. government must not grant NTR to
the Communist Lao government of the LPDR. This is because the Communist
Lao government of the LPDR has been committing terrorism, ethnic
cleansing warfare, genocide, human rights violations, biological and
chemical warfare and religious persecution against many Hmong and Lao
people in Laos. This is because the Communist Lao government of the
LPDR supports President Saddam Hussein of Iraq against the United
States. This is because the Communist LPDR supports international
terrorism.
Just as Osama Bin Laden and Saddam Hussein are guilty of terrorism,
the Communist Lao government and Communist Lao leaders in Laos are also
guilty of terrorism. Just as the government of Iraq is guilty because
it produced and used biological and chemical weapons against people in
Iraq, the LPDR government and the government of the Socialist Republic
of Vietnam are guilty, because these two Communist governments have
been using biological and chemical weapons against Hmong and Lao people
in Laos.
We hope that the above reports, information, evidence and proposals
are helpful sources for the U.S. Congress, the White House, U.S.
Department of State, and U.S. Department of Commerce as the decision
regarding NTR to the LPDR is made. Finally, we are glad to have the
opportunity to advise the U.S. government that it will be a disaster
and big mistake to award NTR to the terrorist dictatorship government
in Laos. The Lao Human Rights Council, Inc. and many Hmong and Lao
American people in the United States are opposed to the U.S. Congress
approving NTR to the LPDR. Please do not award NTR to the terrorist
dictatorship government of the LPDR in Laos.
Thank you so much for your consideration of the above requests.
Submitted by:
Vang Pobzeb, Ph.D.
Executive Director
Lao Human Rights Council, Inc.
in the United States
______
Appendix I
The Governments of Laos and Vietnam Used Biological and Chemical
Weapons against Hmong People in Laos
Appeal from Hmong People in the Xaisomboun Special Region, Northern
Laos,
March 14, 2003
Dear President George Bush:
Dear Members of the U.S. Congress and U.S. Senators:
Dear Secretary General of the United Nations:
Dear Members of the European Union:
Dear International Human Rights and Peace Organizations:
We are Mr. Yang Toua Thao and Moua Toua Ter, Vang Chue Chi, Herr
Chai, and Vang Nhia, leaders of the Hmong democracy and human rights
organizations and survival movements in Laos. We are in the Xaisomboun
Special Region, northern Laos. We appreciate the opportunity to report
on the true situation inside Laos since 1975 and until today in 2003 to
you as follows:
1. LThe Communist Lao government of the Lao People's Democratic
Republic (LPDR) did not allow officials of the U.S. Embassy and other
officials of foreign embassies in Laos to travel to the Xaisomboun
Special Region, northern Laos and many other locations inside Laos
because the Communist Lao government of the LPDR and Vietnamese
government of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam have been conducting
extermination, genocide, ethnic cleansing warfare, and biological and
chemical warfare against Hmong people in Laos for revenge because of
Hmong-U.S. government relations and cooperation during the Vietnam War.
2. LThere are more than 14 Vietnamese and Lao military regiments
composed of many thousands of soldiers and troops who have surrounded
and are conducting an ethnic cleansing war, genocide and biological and
chemical warfare against Hmong people in Laos today.
3. LThe Communist Lao government of the LPDR and Vietnamese
government of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam have killed more than
300,000 people in Laos in the past 27 years (1975-2003). Of this
figure, about 46,000 victims were former CIA soldiers and their family
members and associates. We Hmong people are victimized by genocide and
biological and chemical warfare because of the legacies of Hmong-
American relations and cooperation during the Vietnam War. In 1975, the
Vietnam War was over for the U.S. government, but the war is not over
for Hmong people because the U.S. government pulled out of Laos and
opened the door for the Communist Lao and Vietnamese governments and
soldiers to kill Hmong people and former CIA soldiers in Laos.
4. LIf the governments of Iraq and North Korea are guilty because
they have produced and used biological and chemical weapons, weapons of
mass destruction and nuclear weapons, then also the governments of the
LPDR and Vietnam are guilty, because these two governments have been
using biological and chemical weapons against Hmong people in Laos.
5. LWe Hmong people in Laos do not want any more war. We need true
peace, human rights,, freedom and democracy and survival. We do not
want to die by genocide and biological and chemical weapons. Because we
are human beings we need survival and human rights.
6. LThe Communist governments of the LPDR and Vietnam are using
land mines in the Xaisomboun Special Region and other provinces in
Laos. To date, these land mines have killed many thousands of Hmong
people in these areas of Laos.
Therefore, we appeal to you and those governments who signed the
Paris Peace Agreements of 1973 to end the Vietnam War and to restore
peace for Laos and Indochina:
1. LTo send international fact-finding commissioners and inspectors
to inspect the problems of biological and chemical warfare, genocide
and ethnic cleansing war against Hmong people in the Xaisomboun Special
region and other provinces in Laos.
2. LTo send news reporters and agencies to cover the problems of
international war against Hmong people in Laos.
3. LTo use the Paris Peace Agreements on Indochina and Laos of 1973
and other necessary action plans to stop the war in Laos and to bring a
true peace to the people in Laos.
4. LTo send airplanes to take Hmong and Lao people and former CIA
soldiers and their families in the Xaisomboun Special Region and other
provinces in Laos to resettle in the United States, if the U.S.
government does not consider our peace proposals and the U.S. and the
U.N. do not stop the ethnic cleansing war against Hmong people in Laos.
5. LTo consider our eight-point peace proposal from Hmong people in
Laos of October 7, 2002.
We authorized and requested Dr. Vang Pobzeb, the Director of the
Lao Human Rights Council, to record our telephone communications,
reports, statements and peace proposals on Laos and we requested him to
submit and forward our reports, problems and peace proposals to you. We
need you to take all necessary action plans to stop the war in Laos and
to save our lives. Many of us are former CIA soldiers and family
members. We appeal that you give the opportunity to Dr. Vang Pobzeb and
his supporters and other human rights organizations to submit our
reports and peace proposals to you on our behalf.
Respectfully requested,
Mr. Moua Toua Ter
Mr. Yang Toua Thao
Mr. Vang Chue Chi, Her Chai and Vang Nhia
Xaisomboun Special Region, Northern Laos
Note and Sources:
The above English version is a translation from the telephone
communications and reports and requests from Mr. Moua Toua Ter, Mr.
Yang Toua Thao, Vang Chue Chi, and Vang Chai from Laos to the office of
the Lao Human Rights Council, Inc., in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, United
States, from November 8, 9, and 10, and November 11 and 13, 2002, and
March 14, 2003. The two-hour cassette tape recordings are kept at the
office of the Lao Human Rights Council.
For information on the above reports and problems, please contact:
Dr. Vang Pobzeb, Executive Director; Lao Human Rights Council, Inc.;
P.O. Box 1606; Eau Claire, WI 54702, USA; (715) 831-8355 (telephone);
(715) 831-8563 (fax); E-mail address: laohumrights@earthlink.net;
Website: www.laohumrights.org
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Lao Representatives Abroad
Assembly, Zone 3, Ontario Canada
April 21, 2003
Chairman Phil Crane, House Trade Subcommittee And Honorable Members of
Congress:
Thank you very much for the opportunity to share our concerns about
the possibility of the United States granting of Normalized Trade
Relations (NTR) status to the Communist regime in Laos.
As Laotians who want to see Laos become a true democratic country
which can develop its own economy for the well being of its people. Our
organization has many members and their relatives throughout the United
States and we are staunchly opposed to America granting NTR trade
status to the LPDR for the following reasons:
1. LThe LPDR has never stopped persecuting religious groups in
Laos;
2. LThe LPDR constantly violates and denies human rights to the
citizens of Laos;
3. LLaos' economy is in shambles due to mismanagement and
corruption in the government;
4. LWhen the Lao economy went into deep recession and high
inflation, Lao women as young as 14 years old were forced into
prostitution and hard labor in Laos and in Thailand to try to earn
enough money to feed their family;
5. LThe LPDR has amassed huge quantities of chemical and biological
weapons which they are ready to use against their own people;
6. LThe LPDR is a communist state; a political system that is dying
and unsuitable in the modern era;
7. LThe LPDR is not a friendly country to the United States as was
demonstrated by the government-organized demonstrations in Vientiane
against the U.S. policy towards Iraq (when American men and women put
their life on the line in ``Operation Iraqi Freedom'');
8. LThe LPDR is still controlled by the Communist regime in
Vietnam-and NTR will benefit Vietnam's hardline regime, not Laos.
The Lao Representatives Abroad Assembly in Ontario, Canada, and its
counterparts in America, believe that the U.S. should permit the
economy of Laos to fall even deeper into the abyss without a bailout by
the U.S. taxpayer. Without a strong economy, the communist government
will likely not be able to exist for much longer, and will crumble like
the former Soviet Union and the Berlin Wall.
Thank you very much for your attention to this important
matter.
Samrith Phromkharanourak
President
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Lao-American College
Vientiane, Lao P.D.R.
The Honorable Philip Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee
House Ways and Means Committee
Washington, D.C.
Dear Chairman Philip Crane,
On behalf of the Lao-American College, I am writing to express our
strong support for the establishment of NTR (Normal Trade Relations)
between the US and the Lao PDR.
The Lao PDR is the only ASEAN member nation, of the 10 members, to
which this status has not been extended. Unfortunately, a strongly
vocal minority, many of whom are not American citizens, and are no
longer Lao citizen, appear to have the ear of the Congress. This
minority left Laos long ago and is out of touch with the Laos of today.
To continue to ``punish'' Laos, often for their own personal problems,
is not justifiable of worthy of a country which prides itself as being
a champion and be allowed to hurt a majority of people?
The Lao PDR is not and never has been an aggressor nation. However,
Laos has often been the victim of aggressors. The most recent such
situation was the so-called ``Secret War'' during the Vietnam War
years, and the aggressor then was the United States. The tonnage of
bombs and bomblets dropped on this country continue to main and kill
innocent people.
If the war against terrorism is to be won, then friendship and
trade need to be established. Brute force will not and has not won
hearts and minds of people anywhere. Laos is the landlink of SE Asia, a
position of strategic importance and the cross roads of trade in this
area. Here the US Embassy was never forced to close, and this country
was the first to allow Americans to search for the MIAs.
Laos, like the US, fought for independence and the sovereign right
to determine its own destiny. Instead of punishment, the US could
assist the peaceful development of this country and the evolution of
governance and an economy suitable for Lao needs and circumstances.
Laos wants friendship and respect, peace and prosperity. The Lao want
American friendship--why is this not given to Laos and why do you
listen to people who don't know or understand Laos today and the
poverty, needs, and hopes of the real Lao people?
Sincerely yours,
Virginia Van Ostrand,
Director
(American citizen who has known the real Laos for almost 17 years)
(Over 1,000 college age students + 35 faculty + 20 support staff)
______
Lao-American College
Vientiane, Lao PDR
Dear William M. Thomas,
As a US citizen and the foremost American private investor in the
Lao PDR, I earnestly plead for normalization of US-Laos normal trade
relations. Please vote for the passage of US-Laos Normal Trade
Relations bill that will benefit both sides.
I urge you to ignore the former Secret War mercenaries that
defeated the 1997 trade normalization bill. These people are not part
or caring about the present day Laos. To combat the real causes of
terrorism, there must be economic opportunity for this and all poor
countries.
As a 16 year long education for the Lao people. I welcome any and
all inquiries about education needs in the Lao PDR.
Sincerely yours,
Virginia Van Ostrand
Director
<F-dash>
Lao-American Community of the Northwest
Seattle, Washington 98146
April 21, 2003
Honorable Congressman William M. Thomas
Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee
United States House of Representatives
Honorable Chairman and Members of the Committee:
On behalf of the Lao-American community of the Northwest, we would
like to express our utmost appreciation for the opportunity to submit
this testimony before the Ways and Means Committee of the United States
House of Representatives to:
1. LCall on the House Ways and Means Committee and the US Congress
to urge the US Administration to intervene with Lao Communist
Government for an immediate and unconditional release of all political
and religious prisoners held in various prisons or ``re-education''
camps, or rather, prison camps, throughout Laos.
2. LCall on the House Ways and Means Committee and the Congress to
reject the granting of Normal Trade Relations (NTR) status to the Lao
Communist Government.
First, the Lao-American Community of the Northwest urges the Ways
and Means Committee and the Congress as a whole to call on the US
Administration to press the Lao Communist Government for the immediate
and unconditional release of all prisoners of conscience, especially
the release of the two former high ranking Lao Government officers, Mr.
Khamphoui Ratsmy and Mr. Feng Sackchittaphong, who advocate for
peaceful political reform and who have been imprisoned since 1991 when
they petitioned the Lao People's Revolutionary Party to allow more
freedom for the Lao people and to implement a multi-political parties
system. We also urge for the immediate and unconditional release of the
five student leaders--Mr. Thongpaseuth Keuakoun, Mr. Khamphouvieng
Sisaath, Mr. Seng Aloun Phengphanh, Mr. Bouavanh Chanhmanivong and Mr.
Keochay. These five student leaders were arrested in October 1999 for
attempting to hold a peaceful demonstration in Vientiane (the capital
of Laos) on October 26, 1999. The demonstration's main objectives were
(1) the respect of human rights, (2) the release of political
prisoners, (3) fair and open election and (4) the implementation of a
multi-political parties system to achieve true democracy in Laos.
These student leaders have been arrested for peacefully exercising
their rights as guaranteed in Article 31 of the LPDR's own
Constitution, promulgated in August 1991. Article 31 of the LPDR's
Constitution stipulates: ``Lao citizens have the right and freedom of
speech, press and assembly; and have the right to set up associations
and to stage demonstrations which are not contrary to the law.''
The arrest and the continued incarceration of the student leaders
also violate the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights,
particularly, Articles 2, 11, 19, and 20(1). Article 20(1) of the
Declaration specifically stipulates: ``Everyone has the right to
freedom of peaceful assembly and association.'' Laos is a signatory of
the Declaration.
True to its dictatorial principles and long tradition of deceptive
and lying practices, the LPDR denied and deceived that there ever was a
demonstration on October 26, 1999. According to Amnesty International's
Public Statement of October 25, 2002 (AI Index: ASA 26/005/2002), a
spokeman of the Lao Foreign Ministry was quoted, in November 1999, as
saying: ``I have checked the report thoroughly and stand firm that
there was no protest or arrest of anyone in the past two weeks. There
might have been some drunken people scuffling or making noise that
caused outsiders visiting Vientiane to think they were protesting.''
These official lies of the LPDR were unmasked when a group of six
students, who participated in the demonstration, were able to escape
Laos immediately after the failed attempt demonstration and were
granted asylum in Seattle, Washington in October 2000.
The Lao Communist Government would have continued its charade of
deception if it were not for the strong pressure from the European
Union parliamentarians to come clean regarding the arrest of the
protesters. According to the same October 25, 2002 Amnesty
International's Public Statement, Lao officials admitted in June 2002
during their talk with European parliamentarians that the five student
leaders had been sentenced in June 2001. How could there have been a
sentence if there were no arrests? Once again, the Lao Communist
Government was caught lying.
Second, while applauding the US Government's policies of engagement
with the Lao Communist Government, the Lao-American Community of the
Northwest strongly believes that granting NTR to the Lao Communist
Government at this point would be counterproductive and lead to further
abuse of human rights. It would also send a wrong and conflicting
message to the Lao people and the freedom-loving people around the
world that the US would reward a murderous and dictatorial government
that violates basic human rights as stipulated in the United Nations'
Universal Declaration of Human Rights without requiring significant
changes or improvements of human rights and the rule of laws or even a
small token gesture of goodwill, such as the unconditional and
immediate release of political prisoners, such as the five democracy
student leaders and the two former LPDR's reform-minded officers. The
release of these seven political prisoners would not pose any threat to
the Lao Communist Government's stability. On the contrary, it would
indicate the Lao Government's gradual commitment to the rule of laws
and its international obligations and it would shine a ray of hopes to
its own people--the Lao people--that a new dawn of freedom would not be
too long a dream.
Economically, Laos has very few products and virtually no services
that would benefit from gaining NTR status and thus, free or low tariff
access to the US market, except for the garment industry. The Lao
people would not enjoy any benefits as a result of the NTR status. Only
the ruling elites and the foreign garment tycoons would fully reap the
benefits. As experiences in other developing countries have shown that
there have been frequent abuse of women and children in the garment
industry in countries where transparency is not the norm, but rampant
corruption at the highest level of government is. Laos, under the
Communist regime, is no different, if not worse. True, there have been
numerous decrees issued to ``fight and eradicate'' corruption; as a
matter of fact, every prime minister since Kaysone Phomvihane, the
first prime minister of LPDR, through Boungnang Vorachit, the current
prime minister, has issued at least one such decree. One has to wonder
why corruption today is more rampant. The answer is because in a
dictatorial regime the people cannot scrutinize and question their
government. This answer may seem simplistic and obvious, but that's the
true nature of dictatorship.
It has been almost thirty years that the Lao people have suffered
under the dictatorship of the Lao Communist Government. Although there
appears to be some economic improvement after billion of dollars in
direct foreign aids and loans and foreign investments, the vast
majority of the Lao people still live in poverty today. Laos, as a
country, has been driven further into one of the least developed
countries. While the country and the people are in dire poverty, the
ruling elites are enjoying all the luxuries that money can buy. Let's
think for a moment: how can a person with a monthly salary of less than
five hundred dollars (the official salary of a minister of the LPDR)
afford to pay cash for luxury cars and mansions?
Another economic reality is that Laos is a landlocked country where
all its exporting products have to go through its neighboring countries
such as Thailand and Vietnam. The labor cost must be low enough to
offset the high costs of in-land transit transportation. This
condition, adding to the rampant corruption at the highest level of
government, will lead to a slavery of the Lao women and children
working in the exporting industries. What guarantee will they have for
reasonable wages and working conditions when the Lao Communist
Government has repeatedly ignored its own constitution and its
international obligations under the United Nations' Universal
Declaration of Human Rights?
Politically, by granting NTR status at this point, the US
Government would inadvertently send the wrong message to the Lao people
that it rewards a dictatorial government, which consistently ignores
its own constitution and its international obligations to uphold and
comply with the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
It would dash any hopes and dreams the Lao people may still have and
hold dear to their hearts that some day their country, through the
international pressure, would enjoy true liberty and democracy that we,
Americans, have been taking for granted for so long. Any economic
benefits from the NTR status would only further enhance and perpetuate
the oppressive and persecutorial regime of the Lao Communist Government
and the vast majority of the Lao people would continue to live in
poverty and fear.
The Lao-American community of the Northwest believes that there
will be a time when NTR status will benefit the vast majority of the
Lao people. That time will come when the Lao people can freely and
without fear, elect their own representative form of government that is
not imposed upon them by a one dictatorial party-state government as
they are currently forced to endure. Until then, NTR status would just
enhance the bloody, oppressive hands of the Lao Communist Government.
By advocating for the denial of the granting of NTR status to Lao
PDR, the Lao-American Community of The Northwest does not advocate for
the isolation of Lao PDR. On the contrary, we urge the US
Administration to augment its engagement with the Lao Communist
Government and we believe the current US support in narcotic control
and the US assistance in the UXO program, to name a few, are more
beneficial to the vast majority of the Lao people than the NTR status
could provide.
In conclusion, the Lao-American community of the Northwest, once
again, urges the House Ways and Means Committee and the US Congress to
reject the granting of the NTR Status to the Lao Communist Government,
unless and until it indicates its strongest commitment to the
improvement of human rights and its international obligations. The Lao
Communist Government could signify such commitment by unconditionally
and immediately release the two former reform-minded LPDR officers and
the five student democracy leaders--a simple and small token gesture of
goodwill.
Thank you.
For and on behalf of the Lao-American Community of The Northwest
Khamphay Muangchanh
Co-Chair of the Board
Khamsene Thaviseth
Co-Executive Director
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Lao-Australian Institute for Co-operation and Development
Campbelltown NSW 2560, Australia
19 April 2003
Mr William M. Thomas
Chairman, Committee Members on Ways and Means
House of Representatives and Committee Members on
Ways and Means
1102 Longwoth House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515 USA
Sir,
On behalf of the Lao-Australian Institute for Cooperation and
Development, (LAICD) a non-government organisation based in Sydney,
Australia, I am writing to express our unreserved support for the US
move towards granting the ``Normal Trade Relations'' to Laos. We are a
body of several thousand migrant Lao who are working with the present
Lao government to achieve genuine and successful economic development
in Laos.
Mr Vichit Xindavong, the Lao Ambassador to Australia broke this
promising news at the Lao New Year celebration in Canberra on April 5.
Laos emerged as a contemporary State in 1953 and has been largely a
subsistence economy to date. It is one of the twenty poorest countries
in the world; about 80 per cent of Laos' revenue are dependent on
loans, grants and foreign aid.
Lao people are not familiar with international trade. In its
contemporary history Laos has never had an opportunity to trade with
overseas countries particularly with great Western powers such as USA
and United Kingdom.
The US Normal Trade Relationship is vital for the 5.2 million Lao
population of which 85 per cent are still poor multi-ethnic rural
people. We strongly believe that NTR will help to eventually expose the
Lao people to a genuine Western democratic system, transparent
governance and the poverty eradication that the Lao government aims to
achieve by the year 2020. This will enable Laos to take a proper role
within the community of nations.
We would like to voice our appeal to you, to all the Congressmen
and Senators to give humane consideration in granting the Normal Trade
Relation Agreement to Laos at the coming US Congress meeting. Thank you
in anticipation for your support and we look forward to a historic vote
of the US Congress in favour of this small landlocked and least
developed country. Laos has inherited its current political colour from
cold war history. Thank you very much for your support.
Yours faithfully,
Signed
Kevin Prakoonheang, JP
President, LAIFCAD
<F-dash>
Laos Institute for Democracy
April 21, 2003
Dear Chairman Crane and Members of the Subcommittee:
In this intense political climate, we have recently witnessed the
fall of a totalitarian dictatorship in Iraq. However, there are still
menacing dictatorships in the world which are not being addressed with
the same urgency. I would like bring your attention to the violations
of religious freedom and human rights in the Lao People's Democratic
Republic (Lao PDR).
In July 2002, the government of Lao PDR presented new legislation
which provides a legal basis for control of and interference with
religious activities by government officials. ``The decree provides
that all persons in Lao PDR have the right to carry out religious
activities and to participate in religious ceremonies at established
places of worship. It also provides that every citizen of Lao PDR has
equal rights before the law to believe or not to believe in a religion
and that the Lao PDR government respects and protects legal religious
activities in Lao PDR. In addition the decree recognizes that followers
of all religions have the right to gather together for worship, receive
religious teachings, and conduct religious celebrations at existing
places of worship.'' However, the current situation in Lao PDR does not
reflect changes in legislation. Some religious detainees were released
following the July 2002 decree, but many remain in custody.
Religious freedom seekers continue to suffer serious violations of
their rights. People continue to be arrested and imprisoned, undergo
prolonged detention, and are denied basic human rights. Lao PDR
officials have forced Christians to renounce their faith while dozens
of churches have been closed. Because of these direct violations of
religious freedom and human rights it is very important that Lao PDR be
designated as a county of particular concern (CPC). The government of
Lao PDR needs to accept change in order to become representative of its
people.
Though the Lao PDR is a small country far removed from the U.S.,
the rights of its people need to be addressed with urgency. I am here
representing the many voiceless Laotian people--petitioning you for
help in the preservation of their basic human rights. And I am kindly
requesting that the U.S. Congress reject--not to grant--Normalized
Trade Relations (NTR) to the dictatorship and terrorist Lao PDR regime.
I urge you to support the implementation of a democratic government in
Lao PDR that is for the people, by the people and affords every citizen
basic rights and freedoms--so that they can work together to improve
their economy and enhance their own development.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to express the position of
my organization which seeks to give voice to the freedom-loving Laotian
people still suffering in the Lao PDR. We staunchly oppose granting NTR
to the Lao Communist at the present time.
Respectfully yours,
Khampoua Naovarangsy,
Policy and Political Analyst
The Laos Institute for Democracy
<F-dash>
Statement of Thongsavanh Phongsavan, Executive Director
Laotian American Council, North Providence, Rhode Island
Chairman Phil Crane, Members of the Trade Subcommittee, Members of
the U.S. Congress and American policymakers:
As we weigh the facts and evidence presented here before us
regarding the deplorable Communist regime in Laos, we must consider our
own responsibility as a freedom-loving people of principal and faith.
We can no longer ignore the silent cries of our Laotian neighbors,
friends, and loved ones, who have endured unspeakable injustices at the
hands of the oppressive Lao-PDR regime. However, by working together
towards an effective resolution to the crisis in Laos, we will rise
above the shameful intolerance of the Communist regime, as true
leaders.
We urge the Trade Subcommittee and the U.S. Congress to vigorously
oppose the granting of Normalized Trade Relations (NTR) trade status
with the Communist Lao regime at this time. It is entirely premature,
especially given the Lao regime's support for Saddam Hussein's regime
in Iraq and North Korea.
Understanding the present Stalinist crisis in Laos will provide us
effective tools for resolving key issues--including economic, trade,
national security and counter-terrorism issues. As the
interrelationships among the Lao People's Democratic Republic, the
leadership of Communist North Korea, and those who support or sponsor
terrorism become increasingly clear as a result of ``Operation Iraqi
Freedom'' and the joint ``Lao PDR-North Korean Communique'', we must
implement a decisive policy to counter this growing threat by the Lao
regime to all civilized people. The Lao PDR supports Saddam Hussein's
regime and North Korea's dictatorship, and works closely with them.
Indeed, at this time, when defense spending, national security and war
have become imbedded in the minds of most Americans, we must focus on
resolving the crisis in Laos before that which is bad becomes far more
unpredictable.
While these human rights issue! s (including the arrest and
detention of pro-democracy student activists and intellectuals,
religious persecution, torture, genocide, and other, equally despicable
crimes against humanity) have become major roadblocks to future
cooperation between the United States and Laos, there are still some
who--astonishingly--wish to grant the Lao-PDR government Normalized
Trade Relation (NTR) status as an act of faith--without reasonable
conditions in a post-Sept. 11th environment. Although many of the
people who are closest to this debate agree that some form of
diplomatic concession--including political and economic reforms--are
required on the part of the Lao-PDR before economic restrictions can
finally be lifted, those who are for approving NTR without a foundation
for improvement and serious reforms by the Communist regime seem to
forget the horrific reality of the situation in Laos.
Amnesty International and all other independent hu! man rights
organizations are still not allowed into Laos to monitor the situation
after almost three decades of rule by the Stalinist regime.
Over the years, the U.S. Congressional Forum on Laos has helped to
raise awareness and understanding of the situation in Laos and give
voice to many of the victims of the brutal Communist regime. I am
especially grateful to Congressman Patrick Kennedy, Congressman George
Radanovich and Congressman Mark Green as well as Philip S. Smith,
Executive Director for the Center for Public Policy Analysis, for
helping to cosponsor and coordinate today's special session held in the
U.S. Congress where I also joined with many of my colleagues to present
testimony--including the United League for Democracy in Laos, Inc., the
Lao Nationalist Reform Party, Inc., Amnesty International, the U.S.
Commission for International Religious Freedom, the Laos Institute for
Democracy, the United Lao-Hmong Congress for Democracy, Inc. and many
others.
For the sake of humanity, we need to act together now to nip this
great menace of Lao Marxism in the bud. With the Lao Communist regime's
present alliance with North Korea and key terrorist organizations, the
lifting of any restriction on Laos must be carefully weighed. As recent
history has demonstrated, those who support tyranny and oppression must
be dealt with accordingly if national rehabilitation is sought. We do
not wish to embolden a lawless dictatorship with money or status, but
to hold it accountable for the dire situation that the Lao people, as
well as Laotian-Americans, must now confront.
With our voices on this matter now being heard internationally, we
must set an example that people of every culture will respect. We can
no longer backtrack to a more innocent time, but we can and will
address these injustices by the rule of law. As Laos' already poor
record on human rights has hit a new low with its u! nlawful
restriction of religious worship, according to the recently released
report by the U.S. Commission for International Religious Freedom, we
must make it clear that any work toward cooperation between this regime
and the world community must begin with guarantees of social and
religious freedoms. In the final analysis, peace with this brutal,
dope-peddling dictatorship cannot be achieved by giving in, but by
holding it to the standards of the free and civilized world.
For these and other persuasive reasons, we urge every responsible
person connected with these issues to reassess [their] strategic
implications. We do not wish for war, though the relationship among
Laos and her belligerent neighbors threatens not only that region, but
also the stability of the world as we know it. There must be a
crackdown on the illegal activities, state-sponsored terrorism, and
institutional violence, that is currently being conducted! by the Lao
communist regime, before any real healing can begin; and in this case
the initiative lies with you. With deferment of NTR status, we believe
the Lao-PDR will have little choice but to come to the bargaining
table.
We therefore, on behalf of the vast majority of the Laotian
community in the United States, and in Laos, urge the Trade
Subcommittee, and Members of the U.S. Congress to deny NTR trade status
to the Communist regime in Laos.
We urge Members of Congress, and Trade Subcommittee Members, to
carefully read, support and cosign the U.S. Congressional letter to
President Bush, Secretary Powell and Chairman Crane, in strong
opposition to NTR trade status for Laos at this time. The letter is co-
authored by Rep. George Radanovich (R-CA) and Rep. Mark Green (R-WI),
and cosigned by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Rep. Ron Kind (D-WI), Rep.
Devin Nunes (R-CA) and many other Members of Congress. It also
addresses the important issue of missing Hmong-American citizens.
Thank you very much for your leadership and support. By continuing
to work with you on a bipartisan level to oppose the granting of NTR
trade status to the Communist regime in Laos, the concrete results
desired by the majority of the Laotian people, in terms of reform and
regime-change in Laos, including the restoration of basic human
freedoms and democracy, will be attained in the near future.
<F-dash>
Laotian-American National Coalition
Richmond, California 94804
Honorable Congressman Philip M. Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of the Committee on Ways and Means
Capital Hill
Washington DC
Fax (202) 225-2610
Subject: US NTR for Laos
Dear Honorable Congressman Philip M. Crane
We, the Americans of Laotian descent, hereby express our
wholehearted support the Bush Administration's Trade Initiative in
Southeast Asia to extend the US NTR to Laos and ask that you support
this initiative as well.
Respectfully Yours,
The Voice of the Laotian American National Movement
In support of
The Bush Administration's Trade Initiative
To extend Normal Trade Relations to Laos
We believe that:
Widespread and rapidly growing unemployment among youth in Laos has
driven tens of thousands of them to flee to Thailand and other
neighboring countries where they fall prey to exploitative and inhumane
treatment by their employers and criminals; while the land-locked
Laotian economy continues to weaken due to decline in foreign
investment and its weak capability to compete with its neighbors in the
export markets. The situation is further aggravated by the continued
denial of US NTR while such privilege is enjoyed by its stronger
immediate neighbors, including Vietnam and Cambodia.
US NTR for Laos is not a panacea for its social economic problems,
but it will put Laos on a level playing field with its neighboring
countries on which to compete for a share of the U.S. markets. This in
turn will stimulate domestic and foreign investment in Laos and give
the country a fair chance to provide decent jobs for its youth and
thereby help reverse the current ill treatment and suffering they have
had to endure, both in Laos and in neighboring countries.
We realize that Laotian communities across the U.S. are not
unanimous in their views about the current Laotian Government and its
policies, and that the majority of Laotian Americans still wish to see
more political reforms and changes. But we believe that a stronger
Laotian economy will improve living conditions of the Laotian people
who, in turn, will then become real stakeholders and, eventually
catalysts for change. Experience in Asia has amply demonstrated that
the democratization process has been economically driven.
While understanding and respecting the views of those opposing the
granting of US NTR for Laos, we ask that they also understand and
respect our views and positions on this important matter. As American
citizens, we have the obligation to respect each other's rights and
freedom to express our views in accordance with our belief and
conscience.
The majority of Laotian Americans have reconnected with their
homeland. Most of them have returned to Laos for visits and have
relatives who are still there and wish to see that they be given a fair
chance for a better living. Most Laotian Americans believe that
promoting economic development is the best way to promote peaceful and
sustainable change in Laos.
We wholeheartedly applaud and share the position taken by the Bush
Administration on the issue of US NTR for Laos. Ambassador Hartwick is
trying to encourage discussion and favorable consideration of this
initiative.
Laotian Americans and friends of the Laotians who share our views
should exercise their right of freedom of speech by voicing their views
to their respective Congressional representatives, especially members
of the House Ways and Means Committee.
The opposition to the US NTR to date seeks to isolate and
impoverish Laos for their own ambiguous political agenda. They have
organized and financed aggressive lobby efforts to prevent hearings on
this matter. Some of them continue to believe that poverty will force
change in Laos. Recent history in Asia shows otherwise. People in
isolated and poor North Korea have no means to ask for change, they
starve in silence; while in relatively rich South Korea and other parts
of Asia (Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, Philippines etc.) growing
affluence of the peoples have created economically strong and well
educated middle class who in turn have proven to be the real incubators
and guardians of the growing democratization process.
A constructive engagement approach is a better alternative for the
U.S. to promote change in Laos; and that promoting change through
peaceful socioeconomic development is far more effective and humane
than deliberate impoverishment of our fellow Laotians in Laos. Laos
needs to adopt international standards and strengthen the rule of law.
We should voice our collective efforts to urge the U.S. Congress to
grant Laos the US NTR.
Laotian American National Movement will try to coordinate and in
some cases help to campaign for US NTR for Laos. Our American friends
can certainly help to do the same. Let's not leave out any body that
can help.
For more information, please contact:
The US-Lao NTR Coalition
C/o Laotian-American National Coalition
120 Broadway, Suite 4
Richmond, CA 94804
(510) 235-5005, (510) 235-5065
Website: Laotianlink.com
Email: Laotianlink@USA.com
______
The list of endorsers and supporters
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name Address City State Zip Code
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Sary Tatpaporn 1340 Bush Ave........ San Pablo........... CA.................. 94806
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kanong Tatpaporn 1340 Bush Ave........ San Pablo........... CA.................. 94806
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ken Tatpaporn 1340 Bush Ave........ San Pablo........... CA.................. 94806
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nai Choy Pienh 2810 Clinton Ave..... Richmond............ CA.................. 94804
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frank Yenh Pienh 2810 Clinton Ave..... Richmond............ CA.................. 94804
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
James Chao 4820 Bradford Drive.. Sacramento.......... CA.................. 95820
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Echiam Lee 4415 Livingston Way.. Sacramento.......... CA.................. 95823
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wanthoy Saechao 3741 Blackfeather.... El Sobrante......... CA.................. 94803
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lauchoy Saechao 7704 Darla Way....... Sacramento.......... CA.................. 95828
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nai Seng Saechao 4911 Brooklyn Ave.... Sacramento.......... CA.................. 95824
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fou Seng Saelee 2638 Garvin Ave...... Richmond............ CA.................. 94804
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chan Fow Saelee 3849--35th Street.... Sacramento.......... CA.................. 95820
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Seng Loung Chao P.O. Box 247036...... Sacramento.......... CA.................. 95828
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kristy Sisamouth 3300 Regetta Blvd.... Richmond............ CA.................. 94804
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yangh Jiem-Seng 3705--20th Ave....... Sacramento.......... CA.................. 95820
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oneesiphone, Bountha 2607 Ohio Ave #A..... Richmond............ CA.................. 94801
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cansaengnang, La 1822 Pensylvania Av.. Richmond............ CA.................. 94802
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chanthavong, Synaow 654--27th St......... Richmond............ CA.................. 94804
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chao, Kiam 2140 Stanton Ave..... San Pablo........... CA.................. 94806
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Charoeunsak, Thongsy 1963 Van Ness St..... San Pablo........... CA.................. 94806
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Douangnaly, Inkham 3001 Pullman Ave #137 Richmond............ CA.................. 94804
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Douangprachan, Onekeo 2432--18th Street.... San Pablo........... CA.................. 94806
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Keomanychan, Viengkham 1318 Fillmore Ave. #D San Pablo........... CA.................. 94806
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Keopraseuth, Phat 1268 Parkway Dr...... Richmond............ CA.................. 94803
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<F-dash>
The Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos Friendship
Minnesota State Representation
Brooklyn Park, Minnesota 55443
April 15, 2003
The Honorable Phillip Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
House Ways & Means Committee
233 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Chairman Crane:
We are a group of Laotian Americans from various ethnic backgrounds
of Laos (Lao, Hmong, Khmu, U-Mien, Thaidam, Lue, etc.). We all came
together to form the Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos
Friendship, whose ultimate purpose is to promote education, economic
development, and social and political progress within the Laotian
multi-ethnic communities both in the United States and Laos.
On behalf of our Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos
Friendship, which has representation in various states of the United
States, we have the honor of writing to urge you to move forward
legislation to establish Normal Trade Relations (NTR) with Laos. We are
well aware that NTR with Laos has been strongly endorsed by Secretary
of State Powell and U.S. Trade Representative Zoellick. As new
Americans having roots in Laos, we would like to express our strong
support of the Bush Administration's Trade Initiative in Southeast Asia
and, more particularly, its extension of Normal Trade Relations with
Laos.
Our Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos Friendship is not
unaware of human rights abuses, ethnic profiling, religious
discrimination, etc. in Laos after the takeover by the communist Pathet
Lao in 1975. Fearing for our life, along with our families, we fled the
country--mostly by foot--across Laotian jungles to take the road of
exile. Dr. Yang Dao,<SUP>(1)</SUP> a Hmong educator and scholar and the
current National Chair of this alliance in support of the Bush
Administration's Trade Initiative, wrote several
articles,<SUP>(2)</SUP> published as early as 1980 in France and in the
U.S., denouncing arbitrary arrests by the communist Pathet Lao
authorities who had sent tens of thousand royal Lao cadres, technicians
and intellectuals to the ``political reeducation camps'',<SUP>(3)</SUP>
and condemning the communist Pathet Lao's violent repression against
the Hmong population in Northeastern Laos. These efforts have
contributed to the many but slow changes made by the current government
of Laos.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\(1)\ Yang Dao is a Hmong from Laos. He received his Ph.D. in
social science at the Sorbonne, University of Paris, France, in 1972.
From 1972 to 1974, he was a director in the Ministry of Planning of the
Royal Lao Government. From April 1974 to May 1975, he was appointed by
the King of Laos to the National Political Council of Coalition
(Congress) of the Kingdom of Laos. He has authored and co-authored
several books on Hmong history, culture and traditions. He is now a
faculty member of the Asian Cultures and Literatures Department of the
University of Minnesota.
\(2)\ Gas Warfare: the Communist Solution to the Problems of the
Minorities in Laos (in French) in Les Temps Modernes, Paris, France,
1980; Why Did the Hmong Leave Laos? (in English) in Hmong in the West,
University of Minnesota, U.S.A. in 1982; and Human Rights and Gas
Warfare in Laos (in English) in Southeast Asia Review, Geneva,
Switzerland, 1984.
\(3)\ The ``political reeducation camps'', established along the
Laos-Vietnam border after the takeover Laos by the communist Pathet Lao
in 1975, reportedly looked like the Soviet gulags.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
However, twenty eight years have passed since the Vietnam War ended
in 1975, and the world has profoundly changed. In 1991, democracy
prevailed over Communism in the former U.S.S.R. In October 2002, China
officially adopted a more liberal system leading toward capitalism.
Under international political and economic pressures, Laos must follow
this move. According to the Bush Administration and the U.S. Embassy in
Vientiane, Laos is showing signs of moving toward religious freedom,
human rights and economic reforms. After 27 years of exile, Dr. Yang
Dao was invited by the government of the Lao People's Democratic
Republic to visit Laos in November 2002. He observed that the current
Lao Government has adopted a multi-ethnic policy to consolidate
national unity in Laos, and as a result, Hmong, Khmu and other Laotian
ethnic minorities are actively participating in the government, filling
regional and national leadership positions ranging from city mayor to
provincial governor to government minister. Thus, for the first time in
Laotian history, a Laotheung <SUP>(4)</SUP> has become the Prime
Minister of Laos and a Hmong woman acts as the Vice-President of the
Laotian National Assembly.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\(4)\ Laotheung is the largest ethnic minority which includes the
Khmu group and represents 27 percent of the total population of Laos.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
In these new perspectives, our Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for
U.S.A.-Laos Friendship strongly believes that, if granted, the U.S.
Normal Trade Relations (NTR) will have a catalytic effect on the rate
of economic, social and political reforms in Laos.
a.
Economic Reform:
LThe US NTR would contribute to creating crucial opportunities to
increase employment in Laos by providing legal and institutional
frameworks which would develop the private sector and encourage foreign
investments to accelerate the economic reform in Laos. This will
further strengthen anti-narcotic efforts by strengthening substitute
crops and industries (coffee, tropical fruits, medicinal plants, etc.).
The US NTR, indeed, would reduce duties to 2.4% and allow Laos to
export agricultural products and other kinds of merchandise to U.S.
markets. This transaction would benefit both the multi-ethnic
population of Laos and the Laotian-American community.
b.
Social Reform:
LBy establishing a constructive dialogue with Laotian
authorities, the US NTR would contribute to promoting social welfare
and to developing the education system in Laos. Standardizing education
in Laos would create a strong foundation for social reform which
respects human rights and defends social justice for all Laotian
citizens of all ethnic backgrounds. The Lao, Hmong, Khmu, U-Mien, Thai-
Dam, Lue, and other Laotian peoples would live in the same community of
destiny: national consciousness.
c.
Political Reform:
LThrough a mutual understanding and trust with the Laotian
government, the US NTR would contribute to accelerating political
reform by promoting civil rights and democratic liberties. Such
political reform would contribute to strengthening national solidarity,
assuring political stability in Laos and maintaining peace in Southeast
Asia and the world over.
Our Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos Friendship
strongly supports the Bush Administration's Trade Initiative and its
extension of Normal Trade Relations with Laos for these reasons above,
as well as the following:
1. To Enhance U.S.A.-Laos Special Relations
Since Laos became an independent country in 1954, its diplomatic
relations with the U.S.A. have never been interrupted in spite of
political difficulties and ideological changes. By irony of fate, today
this tiny country is still denied NTR status which has been granted to
Vietnam and Cambodia which, paradoxically, broke ties with the United
States during the Vietnam War and its aftermath. Therefore, our Multi-
Laotian Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos Friendship feels that it is
only fair that NTR treatment be also extended to Laos, whose human
rights record is not worse than that of Cambodia, Vietnam or China. NTR
status indeed will contribute to heal the wounds of the past, to
strengthen U.S.A.-Laos friendship and to help the Laotian people from
all ethnic backgrounds who still have parents, brothers, sisters and
relatives both in Laos and in the United States of America to work
together for the future.
2. U.S. Economic Expansion in Southeast Asia:
Laos is a landlocked and poor country with a population of 5.2
millions. However it possesses a significant amount of arable land (50%
of which is still covered with dense forests), a variety of natural
resources (iron, zinc, silver, gold, sapphire, etc.) and a huge reserve
of hydroelectric resources which draws the attention of a number of
potential suitors. Since 1987, Laos has become a member of the
Association of Southeast Asian Nations (A.S.E.A.N.), which includes
Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines,
Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. A.S.E.A.N. countries constitute a
market of 500 million people. Laos' main exports include electricity,
garments, wood and wood products, coffee, small handicrafts, hand-made
textiles, and some agricultural and forest products. Its trading
partners are mainly countries in the SE Asian sub-region, particularly
Thailand and Vietnam.
In 1998, Laos's textile products were granted quota and duty free
status by the European Union (EU). Since then, about 25% of its total
garment exports are sold to EU countries, particularly France. China is
moving forward with negotiations with Laos and other A.S.E.A.N.
countries for a China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and Japan and
Europe are also beginning to implement similar arrangements with
A.S.E.A.N.
In this international trading context, it is in the interest of the
United States to extend NTR status to Laos, which plays an increasing
role in Southeast Asia and in the world, attested by its hosting in
2002 the first A.S.E.A.N.-EU trade meeting, in Vientiane, capital of
Laos. With U.S. NTR and with its low labor and energy costs and
tremendous amounts of arable land, Laos would be able to export to the
United States processed tropical food, instant coffee, and other labor-
intensive products such as shoes and leather items as well as some
minerals. Furthermore, given its unique culture and ethnic diversity,
Laos would sell its silk weavings, furniture and timber products, and
Hmong traditional clothing to meet the needs of about 500,000 Laotian
Americans of various ethnic backgrounds and more than one million Asian
Americans from different cultures in the United States of America
active in the U.S. market.
3. To Increase U.S. Political Presence in Southeast Asia:
Right in the middle of the Mekong River region, Laos has always
been a crossroad of migrations and trade from China to Cambodia and
from Thailand to Vietnam. Thus, for centuries, its geographic situation
made this tiny country an avenue for transit of goods and ideas.
Contemporary history demonstrated Laos' strategic importance during the
Vietnam conflict.
In this context, Laos is called to play a more and more important
role in Asia, due to its geographic situation and its various natural
resources. ``At any time, officials from China, Vietnam and Thailand
are courting their Lao counterparts in the hope that their efforts will
be rewarded with mining, hydropower and logging contracts, and
convenient access to each other's markets'' wrote Catherine McKinley,
in a Dow Jones Newswire Column (February 4, 2003).
Therefore, extending the NTR status to Laos would greatly
contribute to reinforcing the U.S. presence in Southeast Asia. With the
increasing threat of international terrorism, this presence is
essential to maintaining peace and political stability in Asia.
In conclusion, on behalf of our Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for
U.S.A.-Laos Friendship, we would like to express our gratitude to you
and your Subcommittee for giving us the opportunity to explain the
reasons for our support of extending U.S. NTR to Laos. We strongly urge
you to move forward legislation to establish Normal Trade Relations
with Laos, which will greatly benefit our two countries and our two
populations. For your high consideration, we are enclosing petitions
signed by members of the Laotian American communities in support of
this letter and granting NTR to Laos.
With great respect,
Mr. San Souvannasoth
Co-Chair
Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance
Yang Dao, Ph.D.
Chair
Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance
______
Petition of Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance
for USA-Laos Friendship
In support of the Bush Administration's Trade Initiative
To extend Normal Trade Relations to Laos
We, the undersigned, are Americans of Laotian descents (Lao, Hmong,
Khmu, U-Mien, Lue, Thai-Dam) hereby express our full support of the
Bush Administration Trade Initiative in Southeast Asia and its
extension of Normal Trade Relations to Laos.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
First Name Last Name City State Zip Code
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jonny............................. Moua................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vang.............................. Moua................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shoua............................. Moua................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Andre............................. Yang................. .................... .................... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Toua.............................. Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Paul.............................. Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tou Va............................ Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kifi.............................. Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Teng Sa........................... Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dia............................... Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yang Heu.......................... Jong Pao............. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Young............................. Jong Pao............. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Der Thao.......................... Jong Pao............. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zong Cheng........................ Moua................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55102
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
May Houa.......................... Moua................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55102
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jong.............................. Yang................. Mounds View......... Minnesota........... 55112
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vu................................ Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
May Sy............................ Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khamsy............................ Yang................. Rogers.............. Minnesota........... 55374
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yia............................... Yang................. .................... Minnesota........... 55405
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xue............................... Yang................. .................... Minnesota........... 55445
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thai.............................. Yang................. .................... Minnesota........... 55444
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ja................................ Yang................. .................... Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ker............................... Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55444
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nao Pao........................... Yang................. Rogers.............. Minnesota........... 55374
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thai.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kou............................... Yang................. Maplewood........... Minnesota........... 55109
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thai.............................. Vang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kao............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jimmy............................. Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lor............................... Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55445
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kia............................... Vang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55445
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ze................................ Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55117
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Paj............................... Yang................. Ham Lake............ Minnesota........... 55304
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cziasarh N........................ Yang................. Ham Lake............ Minnesota........... 55304
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phouangsouvanh.................... Bouphasavanh......... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phim.............................. Thongrasmy........... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55430
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Soonhwa........................... Huang................ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55444
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bouachay.......................... Phetvorasack......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55430
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chom.............................. Soudaly.............. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phoukhong......................... Huang................ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55444
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khong............................. Phonvidone........... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55445
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oudom............................. Inthirath............ Champlin............ Minnesota........... 55316
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sing.............................. Chaleunphone......... .................... .................... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Toy............................... Sichanh.............. Maple Grove......... Minnesota........... 55369
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sourisack......................... Somsanith............ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vongsavanh........................ Onsouvanh............ Champlin............ Minnesota........... 55316
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sisavath.......................... Phetvorasack......... Andover............. Minnesota........... 55304
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Keo............................... Phetvorasack......... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sonney............................ Sarichith............ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Savay............................. Ekhasith............. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55444
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khamphone......................... Bouphasavath......... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55444
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sysay............................. Fongthiane........... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55444
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chitchay.......................... Inthapanya........... Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55430
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Keith............................. Sari................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55444
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Peter............................. Inthisone............ Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phosavath......................... Inthisone............ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bounseuy.......................... Phongsavath.......... Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Joy............................... Vannavong............ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55444
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Josie............................. Vannavong............ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55444
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Leune............................. Phetsamone........... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lammai............................ Phetsamone........... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sai............................... Phetchamphone........ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55444
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bountou........................... Phetchamphone........ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55405
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kouang............................ Phetchamphone........ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55405
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Seuth............................. Phetchamphone........ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55405
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Boupha............................ Singvongsa........... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55412
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kham.............................. Singvongsa........... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55412
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Leng.............................. Vongsoury............ Robbinsdale......... Minnesota........... 55422
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Leth.............................. Saengosot............ .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deth.............................. Saengosot............ .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Soulideth Dave.................... Vongdeuane........... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jay............................... Vongdeuane........... Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khandy............................ Vongxay.............. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bounhou........................... Piammalay............ Mounds.............. Minnesota........... 55364
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thongsouk......................... Piammalay............ Mounds.............. Minnesota........... 55364
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sisomphane........................ Piammalay............ Mounds.............. Minnesota........... 55364
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Uthai............................. Saengphachan......... .................... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vailaiphone....................... Saengphachan......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Louane............................ Saengphachan......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nikone............................ Saengphachan......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Somsanouk......................... Vorarath............. Inver Grove Heights. Minnesota........... 55077
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anh............................... Vorarath............. Inver Grove Heights. Minnesota........... 55077
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phanasouk......................... Vorarath............. Roseville........... Minnesota........... 55113
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mark.............................. Carroll.............. Big Lake............ Minnesota........... 55309
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Janice............................ Carroll.............. Big Lake............ Minnesota........... 55309
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Laddavanh......................... Chanthraphone........ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55433
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bounxou........................... Chanthraphone........ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55433
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Leu............................... Lugiu................ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55433
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thipphap Hone..................... Lugiu................ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55433
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khao.............................. Insixiengmay......... Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khouthong......................... Insixiengmay......... Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phetsamone........................ Insixiengmay......... Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monemany.......................... Daoheuang............ Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
King Walker....................... Daoheuang............ Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phonesamth........................ Chantharat........... .................... .................... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kongsy............................ Chantharat........... .................... .................... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Songkane.......................... Choulamountry........ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55405
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Douane............................ Prommachai........... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55405
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thongsai.......................... Prommachai........... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55405
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Souane............................ Prommachai........... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55405
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Penny............................. Phouthavong.......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55405
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sene.............................. Phouthavong.......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55405
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sangvane.......................... Samchapae............ .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phone............................. Daoheuang............ .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phouratsamy....................... Sysouchanh........... Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55423
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Po................................ Chanthaline.......... Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55423
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ketspnom.......................... Chanthaline.......... Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55423
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Boualai........................... SaengPhachan......... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Soupheuy.......................... Kheosamphanh......... Rosemount........... Minnesota........... 55068
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Souk.............................. Greenson............. Rosemount........... Minnesota........... 55068
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phourasmy......................... Keochanhome.......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55417
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tick.............................. Keochanhome.......... Minnepolis.......... Minnesota........... 55417
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Seng.............................. Phetsamone........... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phoukhio.......................... Khaochonethanh....... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55430
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khamphong......................... Khaochonethanh....... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55430
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jeff.............................. Greenson............. .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chao.............................. Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thao.............................. Lor.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xia............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neng Chou......................... Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chong Sue......................... Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ger............................... Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mai Pa............................ Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Toulee............................ Ly................... Vadnais Heights..... Minnesota........... 55127
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blia.............................. Yang................. Vadnais Heights..... Minnesota........... 55127
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Toutha............................ Ly................... Vadnais Heights..... Minnesota........... 55127
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MayPahou.......................... Ly................... Vadnais Heights..... Minnesota........... 55127
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dao............................... Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mo................................ Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shila............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khou.............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shilu............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dona.............................. Vue.................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anthony........................... Vui.................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maijoua........................... Vui.................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mai............................... Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tou............................... Ly................... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shoua............................. Ly................... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Toua.............................. Ly................... Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phia.............................. Ly................... Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sao............................... Vue.................. White Bear Lake..... Minnesota........... 55110
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chai.............................. Lo................... Cottage Grove....... Minnesota........... 55016
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chong............................. Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55117
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
May Yer........................... Ly................... Vadnais Heights..... Minnesota........... 55127
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Joe............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vangcha........................... Lo................... Vadnais Heights..... Minnesota........... 55127
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mee............................... Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blia.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chong Wa.......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sao............................... Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tia............................... Vue.................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sai............................... Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pa................................ Lee.................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cher.............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pha............................... Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mee............................... Xiong................ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kou............................... Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kia............................... Moua................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ger............................... Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eng............................... Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55430
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mai Nhia.......................... Thao................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55430
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chia.............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55430
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mai True.......................... Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55430
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pao............................... Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cee............................... Vang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hue............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55109
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bao............................... Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55109
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mai Lee........................... Yang................. Maplewood........... Minnesota........... 55109
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cheng Chua........................ Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pang.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
True.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bee............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kao............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Der............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yang.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lue............................... Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pao............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nhia Her.......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sue............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cia............................... Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tong Vang......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Meng.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jaa............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chong Moua........................ Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sue Blong......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Marvin............................ Lee.................. White Bear Lake..... Minnesota........... 55110
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bao............................... Lee.................. White Bear Lake..... Minnesota........... 55110
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yue Pheng......................... Lee.................. White Bear Lake..... Minnesota........... 55110
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blia.............................. Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55117
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kia............................... Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nhia.............................. Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nao Mai........................... Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ong............................... Lee.................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thai.............................. Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chaxiom........................... Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wacheng........................... Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xochia............................ Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xiong............................. Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wa Doua........................... Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55117
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fue............................... Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lor............................... Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nhia Her.......................... Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cha............................... Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55107
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pang.............................. Vongphengsy.......... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heuang............................ Intravong............ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Siriphanh......................... Intravong............ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chanthone......................... Sirivong............. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saeng Keo......................... Heuanphommavong...... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saengphaivanh..................... Heuanphommavong...... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phoungeun......................... Chanthamountry....... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vinny............................. Chanthamountry....... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Don............................... Chanthamountry....... Plymouth............ Minnesota........... 55441
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yvonne............................ Chanthakhoune........ Plymouth............ Minnesota........... 55441
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kongkham.......................... Thiravong............ Austin.............. Minnesota........... 55912
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Souphy............................ Thiravong............ Austin.............. Minnesota........... 55912
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bounthavy......................... Phouisangiem......... Austin.............. Minnesota........... 55912
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Keo............................... Phouisangiem......... Austin.............. Minnesota........... 55912
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khamphay.......................... Keomalaythong........ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ming.............................. Keomalaythong........ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Onsa.............................. Thammavong........... Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55423
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khampha........................... Thammavong........... Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55423
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sam Champ......................... Vongvan.............. Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55423
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chomdy............................ Vongsouvanh.......... Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55423
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Viraphonh......................... Thammavong........... Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55423
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phenkamon......................... Thammavong........... Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55423
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thida............................. Vongkaisone.......... Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55423
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ninov............................. Widjaja.............. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bounhom........................... Phithaksounthone..... Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55423
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vinith............................ Phithaksounthone..... Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55423
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Savath............................ Vongphengsy.......... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pangtang.......................... Lor.................. Woodbury............ Minnesota........... 55125
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blong............................. Lor.................. Woodbury............ Minnesota........... 55125
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alun.............................. Lor.................. Woodbury............ Minnesota........... 55125
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vue............................... Lor.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kao............................... Lor.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shua.............................. Thao................. .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sia............................... Lor.................. .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cha Tua........................... Lor.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
May............................... Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gymbay............................ Moua................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shua.............................. Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55127
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mang.............................. Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55127
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Katherine......................... Lor.................. Woodbury............ Minnesota........... 55125
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
May............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dua............................... Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Noy............................... Phomphackmy.......... Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chansone.......................... Littana.............. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lon............................... Littana.............. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oneta............................. Chompathong.......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Noumay............................ Outhaaphay........... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Boualy............................ Phompheng............ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vandala........................... Kangla............... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Syvalichanh....................... Souvannachack........ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thone............................. Champa............... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Boualay........................... Inthavong............ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khamlay........................... Thammasiv............ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deth.............................. Manivang............. Bloomington......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Matt.............................. Souvannasith......... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vieny............................. Rittirat............. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xayasack.......................... Ratsamy.............. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55408
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sam............................... Limsithy............. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55408
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pao............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xe................................ Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khue.............................. Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Koua.............................. Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mayky............................. Lypalao.............. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anouvong.......................... Ly................... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maytioua.......................... Ly................... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ben............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maysy............................. Ly................... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tong.............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55430
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lykerpkery........................ Gasere............... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55424
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yee............................... Khang................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rick.............................. Yang................. Coon Rapid.......... Minnesota........... 55448
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maysia............................ Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yang.............................. Ly................... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mayshoua.......................... Ly................... Oakdale............. Minnesota........... 55128
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maitria........................... Ly................... Lake Elmo........... Minnesota........... 55042
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tommy............................. Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55102
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chue.............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55444
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mai............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sally............................. Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tang Xiong........................ Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Souk.............................. Savanh............... .................... .................... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chou.............................. Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chong Yee......................... Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55444
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Doua Lor.......................... Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55444
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Steven............................ Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bao............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kao............................... Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55459
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chia T............................ Xiong................ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55430
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jesse............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Leng.............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pao............................... Her.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lee............................... Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Houa.............................. Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kia............................... Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mai............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Va Lor............................ Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sue............................... Xiong................ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mai............................... Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dara.............................. Xiong................ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55445
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mai Thao.......................... Yang................. Oakdale............. Minnesota........... 55128
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lee L............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55117
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kaying............................ Yang................. Inver Grove Heights. Minnesota........... 55077
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Toua.............................. Xiong................ Oakdale............. Minnesota........... 55118
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rob............................... Carwright............ Osseo............... Minnesota........... 55369
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ia................................ Ly................... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dzeu.............................. Ly................... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Guillaume......................... Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nelly............................. Lauj................. Roseville........... Minnesota........... 55113
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ka................................ Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chris............................. Cha.................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55445
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Paul.............................. Xiong................ Hilltop............. Minnesota........... 55421
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khue.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nao Thai.......................... Yang................. Oakdale............. Minnesota........... 55128
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khue.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cyndy............................. Hang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Long.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nao Yeng.......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Andrew............................ Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yang.............................. Ly................... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tina.............................. Xiong................ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55430
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sher.............................. Xiong................ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55408
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rook.............................. Xiong................ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Houa.............................. Vang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55430
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kao............................... Xiong................ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ma................................ Xiong................ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yer............................... Lee.................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khoo.............................. Xiong................ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55444
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Minne............................. Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55412
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Houa.............................. Yang................. St. Cloud........... Minnesota........... 56303
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kathy............................. Vang................. St. Cloud........... Minnesota........... 56303
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wa Thai........................... Yang................. Coon Rapids......... Minnesota........... 55433
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shoua............................. Xiong................ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maxwell........................... Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xiong............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lee............................... Vang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Toua.............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Youa.............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lee............................... Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bo................................ Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Touma............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dara.............................. Vang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zhua.............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thao Pao.......................... Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jenny............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pai............................... Xiong................ Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phia.............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chianeng.......................... Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fue............................... Yang................. Coon Rapids......... Minnesota........... 55433
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Koua.............................. Yang................. Coon Rapids......... Minnesota........... 55433
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ker............................... Yang................. Coon Rapids......... Minnesota........... 55433
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chawa............................. Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mai............................... Xiong................ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chia Neng......................... Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chee.............................. Xiong................ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Se................................ Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bee L............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ka................................ Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Christopher....................... Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deng.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chong............................. Yang................. Walnut Grove........ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xiong............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Seng.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Peter............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55117
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shong............................. Yang................. Lonsdale............ Minnesota........... 55096
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chong............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Teng.............................. Yang................. Inver Grove......... Minnesota........... 55076
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kou............................... Yang................. Inver Grove......... Minnesota........... 55076
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phonh............................. Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55405
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Por............................... Lee.................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pheng............................. Vang................. Columbia Heights.... Minnesota........... 55421
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ya................................ Yang................. Robbinsdale......... Minnesota........... 55422
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phoua............................. Yang................. Robbinsdale......... Minnesota........... 55422
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Toby.............................. Yang................. Columbia Heights.... Minnesota........... 55421
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tou............................... Yang................. Columbia Heights.... Minnesota........... 55421
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kong.............................. Yang................. Columbia Heights.... Minnesota........... 55421
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Judy.............................. Hang................. Columbia Heights.... Minnesota........... 55421
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kevin............................. Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55412
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Paul.............................. Thao................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55412
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vang.............................. Yang................. Milwaukee........... Wisconsin........... 53215
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xiong............................. Lee.................. Milwaukee........... Wisconsin........... 53215
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xiong............................. Houa................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sam............................... Xiong................ Burnsville.......... Minnesota........... 55337
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Por............................... Vang................. Detroit............. Michigan............ 48205
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xhonching......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Toua.............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Doua.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Paul.............................. Yang................. Columbia Heights.... Minnesota........... 55421
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wesley............................ Vue.................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55405
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chuseng........................... Vue.................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55445
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
David K........................... Vue.................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55412
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Her............................... Vue.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
David D........................... Vue.................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vang X............................ Moua................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carrie............................ Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55430
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bao............................... Yang................. Columbia Heights.... Minnesota........... 55421
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yia............................... LeePalao............. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MayKa............................. LeePalao............. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ChongTong......................... LeePalao............. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chomchanh......................... Soudaly.............. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kham Phal......................... Soudaly.............. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khamphouang....................... Phetharath........... Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rick.............................. Vongkaysone.......... Plymouth............ Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Niphunh........................... Vongkaysone.......... Elk River........... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Moun.............................. Vongkaysone.......... Plymouth............ Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Malay............................. Muor................. Elk River........... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vienortham........................ Vongkaysone.......... Plymouth............ Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Naly.............................. Vongkaysone.......... Plymouth............ Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Home.............................. Phonekongxa.......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rithavong......................... Phouthavongxay....... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vanna............................. Sysenkhan............ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Leus.............................. Phetuore............. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khampheth......................... Phothilath........... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saeng............................. Phetsamone........... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Soukha............................ Jack................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Soumanna.......................... Keshamon............. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vilayvanh......................... Chayananh............ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sboun............................. Phangluamenaly....... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chanthay.......................... Sysengchanh.......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chomsy............................ Kouanchav............ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Daravanh.......................... Sihanathorath........ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tou............................... Thongsi.............. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yam............................... Pommachan............ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kina.............................. Phomvongsa........... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xa................................ Phomvongsa........... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kai............................... Phonexiengsa......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lay............................... Kounlabout........... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sou............................... Soukhampanx.......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sy................................ Sysomvong............ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chanhom........................... Sinouthasy........... Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
James K........................... Photisanh............ Burnsville.......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Molly............................. Photisanh............ Burnsville.......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sika.............................. Phomvongsa........... Minneapolise........ Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pany.............................. Romanson............. Apple Valley........ Minnesota........... 55124
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rich.............................. Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inpanh............................ Thammavongsa......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55413
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pao............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fong.............................. Lor.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Daniel............................ Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55412
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Michanh........................... Suongxay............. Savage.............. Minnesota........... 55378
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dany.............................. Xiong................ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55430
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ong............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chue.............................. Vang................. .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xeng.............................. Yang................. .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jerry............................. Xiong................ .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Paul.............................. Chang................ .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kong.............................. Yang................. .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Molly............................. Yang................. .................... .................... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maikao............................ Yang................. .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pakou............................. Vang................. .................... .................... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tracy............................. Pederson............. .................... .................... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jenny............................. Chounlamontry........ .................... .................... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lee............................... Vue.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wa Chee Meng...................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mao............................... Thao................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nhia Xou.......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lucy.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tong.............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ntsuab Pai........................ Kong................. .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vilky............................. Soung................ .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xeng.............................. Kong................. .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xao............................... Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lor............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Teng.............................. Xiong................ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55412
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chao.............................. Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adam.............................. Yang................. Roseville........... Minnesota........... 55113
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bouachao.......................... Yang................. Hudson.............. Wisconsin........... 54016
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nou............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yia............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pao............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chanh Kevin....................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tong Pao.......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thao.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tong.............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Houston........................... Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55075
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mai............................... Yang................. .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nao Ko............................ Yang................. .................... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chao.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xee............................... Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Choua............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Meng.............................. Vang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jimmy............................. Xiong................ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ker............................... Thor................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Koob.............................. Her.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bao............................... Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dao............................... Her.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yeem.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tsueyee........................... Her.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sam............................... Yang................. Anoka............... Minnesota........... 55303
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lee............................... Chang................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yer............................... Moua................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Diana............................. Lor.................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55407
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Long.............................. Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Linda............................. Vang................. North Branch........ Minnesota........... 55056
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ong............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dao............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CherTham.......................... Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Moua.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55117
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Syher............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Va................................ Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chong............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blia.............................. Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thomas............................ Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
June.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fong.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mai............................... Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Choua............................. Yang................. Maplewood........... Minnesota........... 55109
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bong.............................. Xiong................ Maplewood........... Minnesota........... 55109
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chong............................. Yang................. Maplewood........... Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cho............................... Lee.................. Maplewood........... Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kong.............................. Yang................. Maplewood........... Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Youa.............................. Vang................. Maplewood........... Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xue............................... Yang................. Maplewood........... Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phoua............................. Ly................... Maplewood........... Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55108
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Houa.............................. Vue.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55108
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pheng............................. Yang................. Roseville........... Minnesota........... 55113
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kaoyingly......................... Yang................. Roseville........... Minnesota........... 55113
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Theresa........................... Thao-Yang............ Roseville........... Minnesota........... 55113
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pa................................ Yang................. Roseville........... Minnesota........... 55113
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sua............................... Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
William........................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Joua.............................. Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kue............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
May............................... Chang-Yang........... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ai................................ Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bee............................... Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55412
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blia.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cha............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chai Neng......................... Yang................. Oakdale............. Minnesota........... 55128
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cher.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55071
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cher Pao.......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cher Thai......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55117
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chia.............................. Yang................. Rosemound........... Minnesota........... 55068
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chia Xa........................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chong Cher........................ Yang................. Blaine.............. Minnesota........... 55066
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chong Koua........................ Yang................. Lake Elmo........... Minnesota........... 55042
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yong Seng......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chong Yee......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chue Kao.......................... Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chue Vang......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nao Kao........................... Yang................. Oakdale............. Minnesota........... 55128
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ger............................... Yang................. Cottage Grove....... Minnesota........... 55016
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ger............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55117
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hue............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thomas............................ Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55113
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jer............................... Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55407
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nraj Lis.......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55107
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kou............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55102
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lee............................... Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55408
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neng Vang......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neng Vang......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lor............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Moua.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55117
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nhia Chong........................ Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nhia Pao.......................... Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55408
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nhia Xou.......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chong Yee......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ong............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pa Ge............................. Yang................. Taylors Fall........ Minnesota........... 55084
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pa Chao........................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pao Ge............................ Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shong Leng........................ Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55118
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nkias Suab........................ Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thao.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thao.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tong.............................. Yang................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tong.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tong Pao.......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tong See.......................... Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55407
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thaj Yeeb......................... Yang................. Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tria.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55117
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Txam.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wa Khue........................... Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55407
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wa Lee............................ Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wa Tou............................ Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wa Chor........................... Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55412
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xai Shoua......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xia Shoua......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xia Ying.......................... Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55413
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xia Ying.......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55117
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yee............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ying.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55117
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Youa Pao.......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Za Dang........................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chong Neng........................ Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Doua.............................. Yang................. White Bear Lake..... Minnesota........... 55110
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Niam Toj Pov...................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pao............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Niam Txhiaj Kaus.................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Niam Tooj Xeeb.................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nraj Lis.......................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55107
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thai.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55117
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mok............................... Khounviseth.......... Eagan............... Minnesota........... 55122
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mek............................... Luangsaysana......... Apple Valley........ Minnesota........... 55124
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Noi............................... Phothisanh........... St. Michael......... Minnesota........... 55376
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blacky............................ Phothisanh........... Shakopee............ Minnesota........... 55379
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jake.............................. Phothisanh........... Shakopee............ Minnesota........... 55379
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rathaporn......................... Manikong............. Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55423
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Somsack........................... Chetana.............. Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55423
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lair.............................. Sayarath............. Shakopee............ Minnesota........... 55379
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jack.............................. Emphanavong.......... Eagan............... Minnesota........... 55122
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deek.............................. Saengsouvichanh...... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55412
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Judy.............................. Saengsouvichanh...... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55412
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pho............................... Souvannasane......... Lakeville........... Minnesota........... 55044
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chanpheng......................... Phongsavath.......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55412
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kongme............................ Phongsavath.......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55412
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
William........................... Inthisone............ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Keo Oudone........................ Detvongsa............ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phongsavath....................... Dithyouvong.......... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sisathone......................... Lithyouvong.......... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rathaporn......................... Manikhong............ Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55423
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vatsana........................... Inthisone............ Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pnanomporn........................ Daoheuang............ Coon Rapids......... Minnesota........... 55433
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Soubanh........................... Daoheuang............ Coon Rapids......... Minnesota........... 55433
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khamseung......................... Phauthavong.......... Eagan............... Minnesota........... 55122
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chanhmaly......................... Phauthavong.......... Eagan............... Minnesota........... 55122
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Keopraseuth....................... Phauthavong.......... Eagan............... Minnesota........... 55122
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Keophoxay......................... Phauthavong.......... Eagan............... Minnesota........... 55122
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chaleunxay........................ Keomany.............. Eagan............... Minnesota........... 55122
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vikasouk.......................... Phanthavong.......... Eagan............... Minnesota........... 55122
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sitto............................. Phamthavong.......... Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55123
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Keosavanh......................... Phamthavong.......... Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55123
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Keomanivong....................... Phothirath........... Brooklyn Center..... Minnesota........... 55429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sounthone......................... Ratrisavath.......... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Taimany........................... Supantavong.......... Farmington.......... Minnesota........... 55024
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vanh.............................. Manikhong............ Richfield........... Minnesota........... 55423
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phetsamone........................ Bouphasavan.......... Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phio.............................. Sivongsa............. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Damdy............................. Keodonamgdy.......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thongmee.......................... Changouthory......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Noun.............................. Phangluangmaly....... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bounsonane........................ Inthisone............ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55427
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kim............................... Inthisone............ Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55427
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nouphanh.......................... Rattanavong.......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55427
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Boun Em........................... Rattanavong.......... Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55427
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kong.............................. Thanosack............ Apple Valley........ Minnesota........... 55124
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shong............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zoua.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55118
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
May............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mee............................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lee............................... Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55117
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mai............................... Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chao.............................. Thao................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yang.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Billy............................. Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Paul.............................. Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thao.............................. Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lee............................... Thao................. New Brighton........ Minnesota........... 55112
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nhiatou........................... Vue.................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55403
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mao............................... Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55403
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thong............................. Moua................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See............................... Thao................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lee............................... Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jer............................... Yang................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55407
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lor............................... Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wa................................ Khue................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55407
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wa Joe............................ Vu................... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gaosay............................ Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dicey............................. Vu................... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yang.............................. Her.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
William........................... Vue.................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55443
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xao Chia.......................... Vue.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neng W............................ Thao................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bee............................... Lee.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ger............................... Vue.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55117
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xia Vu............................ Moua................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neng.............................. Vue.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Koua.............................. Vue.................. Champlin............ Minnesota........... 55316
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xue............................... Vue.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chufue............................ Vu................... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Samson............................ Vu................... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nou............................... Vue.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55104
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ka Ying........................... Vang................. .................... Minnesota........... 55038
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ong............................... Vang................. .................... Minnesota........... 55038
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gao Sy............................ Vu................... .................... Minnesota........... 55038
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ying.............................. Chu-Yang-Heu......... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blong............................. Chu-Yang-Heu......... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yang.............................. Chu-Yang-Heu......... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bay............................... Chu-Yang-Heu......... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Teng.............................. Heu.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chukou-Chu-Yang................... Heu.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55016
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yee............................... Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shayipheng........................ Heu.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xay Chu Yang...................... Heu.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CherPao........................... Thao................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heu Lang ChuYang.................. Heu.................. Woodbury............ Minnesota........... 55125
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lou Chu Yang...................... Heu.................. Woodbury............ Minnesota........... 55125
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fua............................... Vaam................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mang.............................. Chu-Yang-Heu......... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sab............................... Chu-Yang-Heu......... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pao............................... Her.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Youa.............................. Chu-Yang-Heu......... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fisher............................ Moua................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55444
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yer............................... Moua................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chou.............................. Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Linus-See......................... Moua................. Minneapolis......... Minnesota........... 55411
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fuavaam ChuYang................... Heu.................. Woodbury............ Minnesota........... 55125
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ling.............................. Chu-Yang-Heu......... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chaky............................. Xiong................ St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monia X........................... Moua................. Brooklyn Park....... Minnesota........... 55444
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chia Chang........................ Chu-Yang-Heu......... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mai............................... Vang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kang.............................. Chu-Yang-Heu......... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By................................ Moua................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xing.............................. Chu-Yang-Heu......... St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Patrick........................... Her.................. Maplewood........... Minnesota........... 55117
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wayne X........................... Her.................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
William........................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chai.............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55106
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Va................................ Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... .........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Boua Fue.......................... Thao................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lucy Yang......................... Thao................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tong Sao.......................... Thao................. .................... Minnesota........... 55305
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Keota............................. Thao................. .................... Minnesota........... 55305
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chay.............................. Lo................... Maplewood........... Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A................................. Yang................. Maplewood........... Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Choi X Chao....................... Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sy Lo............................. Yang................. St. Paul............ Minnesota........... 55103
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Joseph............................ Yang................. Maplewood........... Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Marie............................. Yang................. Maplewood........... Minnesota........... 55119
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<F-dash>
The Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos Friendship
Washington State Representation
Seattle, Washington 98108
April 15, 2003
The Honorable Phillip Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
House Ways & Means Committee
233 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Chairman Crane:
We are a group of Laotian Americans from various ethnic backgrounds
of Laos (Lao, Hmong, Khmu, U-Mien, Thaidam, Lue, etc.). We all came
together to form the Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos
Friendship, whose ultimate purpose is to promote education, economic
development, and social and political progress within the Laotian
multi-ethnic communities both in the United States and Laos.
On behalf of our Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos
Friendship, which has representation in various states of the United
States, we have the honor of writing to urge you to move forward
legislation to establish Normal Trade Relations (NTR) with Laos. We are
well aware that NTR with Laos has been strongly endorsed by Secretary
of State Powell and U.S. Trade Representative Zoellick. As new
Americans having roots in Laos, we would like to express our strong
support of the Bush Administration's Trade Initiative in Southeast Asia
and, more particularly, its extension of Normal Trade Relations with
Laos.
Our Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos Friendship is not
unaware of human rights abuses, ethnic profiling, religious
discrimination, etc. in Laos after the takeover by the communist Pathet
Lao in 1975. Fearing for our life, along with our families, we fled the
country--mostly by foot--across Laotian jungles to take the road of
exile. Dr. Yang Dao,<SUP>(1)</SUP> a Hmong educator and scholar and the
current National Chair of this alliance in support of the Bush
Administration's Trade Initiative, wrote several
articles,<SUP>(2)</SUP> published as early as 1980 in France and in the
U.S., denouncing arbitrary arrests by the communist Pathet Lao
authorities who had sent tens of thousand royal Lao cadres, technicians
and intellectuals to the ``political reeducation camps'',<SUP>(3)</SUP>
and condemning the communist Pathet Lao's violent repression against
the Hmong population in Northeastern Laos. These efforts have
contributed to the many but slow changes made by the current government
of Laos.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\(1)\ Yang Dao is a Hmong from Laos. He received his Ph.D. in
social science at the Sorbonne, University of Paris, France, in 1972.
From 1972 to 1974, he was a director in the Ministry of Planning of the
Royal Lao Government. From April 1974 to May 1975, he was appointed by
the King of Laos to the National Political Council of Coalition
(Congress) of the Kingdom of Laos. He has authored and co-authored
several books on Hmong history, culture and traditions. He is now a
faculty member of the Asian Cultures and Literatures Department of the
University of Minnesota.
\(2)\ Gas Warfare: the Communist Solution to the Problems of the
Minorities in Laos (in French) in Les Temps Modernes, Paris, France,
1980; Why Did the Hmong Leave Laos? (in English) in Hmong in the West,
University of Minnesota, U.S.A. in 1982; and Human Rights and Gas
Warfare in Laos (in English) in Southeast Asia Review, Geneva,
Switzerland, 1984.
\(3)\ The ``political reeducation camps'', established along the
Laos-Vietnam border after the takeover Laos by the communist Pathet Lao
in 1975, reportedly looked like the Soviet gulags.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
However, twenty eight years have passed since the Vietnam War ended
in 1975, and the world has profoundly changed. In 1991, democracy
prevailed over Communism in the former U.S.S.R. In October 2002, China
officially adopted a more liberal system leading toward capitalism.
Under international political and economic pressures, Laos must follow
this move. According to the Bush Administration and the U.S. Embassy in
Vientiane, Laos is showing signs of moving toward religious freedom,
human rights and economic reforms. After 27 years of exile, Dr. Yang
Dao was invited by the government of the Lao People's Democratic
Republic to visit Laos in November 2002. He observed that the current
Lao Government has adopted a multi-ethnic policy to consolidate
national unity in Laos, and as a result, Hmong, Khmu and other Laotian
ethnic minorities are actively participating in the government, filling
regional and national leadership positions ranging from city mayor to
provincial governor to government minister. Thus, for the first time in
Laotian history, a Laotheung <SUP>(4)</SUP> has become the Prime
Minister of Laos and a Hmong woman acts as the Vice-President of the
Laotian National Assembly.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\(4)\ Laotheung is the largest ethnic minority which includes the
Khmu group and represents 27 percent of the total population of Laos.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
In these new perspectives, our Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for
U.S.A.-Laos Friendship strongly believes that, if granted, the U.S.
Normal Trade Relations (NTR) will have a catalytic effect on the rate
of economic, social and political reforms in Laos.
a.
Economic Reform:
LThe US NTR would contribute to creating crucial opportunities to
increase employment in Laos by providing legal and institutional
frameworks which would develop the private sector and encourage foreign
investments to accelerate the economic reform in Laos. This will
further strengthen anti-narcotic efforts by strengthening substitute
crops and industries (coffee, tropical fruits, medicinal plants, etc.).
The US NTR, indeed, would reduce duties to 2.4% and allow Laos to
export agricultural products and other kinds of merchandise to U.S.
markets. This transaction would benefit both the multi-ethnic
population of Laos and the Laotian-American community.
b.
Social Reform:
LBy establishing a constructive dialogue with Laotian
authorities, the US NTR would contribute to promoting social welfare
and to developing the education system in Laos. Standardizing education
in Laos would create a strong foundation for social reform which
respects human rights and defends social justice for all Laotian
citizens of all ethnic backgrounds. The Lao, Hmong, Khmu, U-Mien, Thai-
Dam, Lue, and other Laotian peoples would live in the same community of
destiny: national consciousness.
c.
Political Reform:
LThrough a mutual understanding and trust with the Laotian
government, the US NTR would contribute to accelerating political
reform by promoting civil rights and democratic liberties. Such
political reform would contribute to strengthening national solidarity,
assuring political stability in Laos and maintaining peace in Southeast
Asia and the world over.
Our Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos Friendship
strongly supports the Bush Administration's Trade Initiative and its
extension of Normal Trade Relations with Laos for these reasons above,
as well as the following:
1. To Enhance U.S.A.-Laos Special Relations
Since Laos became an independent country in 1954, its diplomatic
relations with the U.S.A. have never been interrupted in spite of
political difficulties and ideological changes. By irony of fate, today
this tiny country is still denied NTR status which has been granted to
Vietnam and Cambodia which, paradoxically, broke ties with the United
States during the Vietnam War and its aftermath. Therefore, our Multi-
Laotian Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos Friendship feels that it is
only fair that NTR treatment be also extended to Laos, whose human
rights record is not worse than that of Cambodia, Vietnam or China. NTR
status indeed will contribute to heal the wounds of the past, to
strengthen U.S.A.-Laos friendship and to help the Laotian people from
all ethnic backgrounds who still have parents, brothers, sisters and
relatives both in Laos and in the United States of America to work
together for the future.
2. U.S. Economic Expansion in Southeast Asia:
Laos is a landlocked and poor country with a population of 5.2
millions. However it possesses a significant amount of arable land (50%
of which is still covered with dense forests), a variety of natural
resources (iron, zinc, silver, gold, sapphire, etc.) and a huge reserve
of hydroelectric resources which draws the attention of a number of
potential suitors. Since 1987, Laos has become a member of the
Association of Southeast Asian Nations (A.S.E.A.N.), which includes
Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines,
Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. A.S.E.A.N. countries constitute a
market of 500 million people. Laos' main exports include electricity,
garments, wood and wood products, coffee, small handicrafts, hand-made
textiles, and some agricultural and forest products. Its trading
partners are mainly countries in the SE Asian sub-region, particularly
Thailand and Vietnam.
In 1998, Laos's textile products were granted quota and duty free
status by the European Union (EU). Since then, about 25% of its total
garment exports are sold to EU countries, particularly France. China is
moving forward with negotiations with Laos and other A.S.E.A.N.
countries for a China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and Japan and
Europe are also beginning to implement similar arrangements with
A.S.E.A.N.
In this international trading context, it is in the interest of the
United States to extend NTR status to Laos, which plays an increasing
role in Southeast Asia and in the world, attested by its hosting in
2002 the first A.S.E.A.N.-EU trade meeting, in Vientiane, capital of
Laos. With U.S. NTR and with its low labor and energy costs and
tremendous amounts of arable land, Laos would be able to export to the
United States processed tropical food, instant coffee, and other labor-
intensive products such as shoes and leather items as well as some
minerals. Furthermore, given its unique culture and ethnic diversity,
Laos would sell its silk weavings, furniture and timber products, and
Hmong traditional clothing to meet the needs of about 500,000 Laotian
Americans of various ethnic backgrounds and more than one million Asian
Americans from different cultures in the United States of America
active in the U.S. market.
3. To Increase U.S. Political Presence in Southeast Asia:
Right in the middle of the Mekong River region, Laos has always
been a crossroad of migrations and trade from China to Cambodia and
from Thailand to Vietnam. Thus, for centuries, its geographic situation
made this tiny country an avenue for transit of goods and ideas.
Contemporary history demonstrated Laos' strategic importance during the
Vietnam conflict.
In this context, Laos is called to play a more and more important
role in Asia, due to its geographic situation and its various natural
resources. ``At any time, officials from China, Vietnam and Thailand
are courting their Lao counterparts in the hope that their efforts will
be rewarded with mining, hydropower and logging contracts, and
convenient access to each other's markets'' wrote Catherine McKinley,
in a Dow Jones Newswire Column (February 4, 2003).
Therefore, extending the NTR status to Laos would greatly
contribute to reinforcing the U.S. presence in Southeast Asia. With the
increasing threat of international terrorism, this presence is
essential to maintaining peace and political stability in Asia.
In conclusion, on behalf of our Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for
U.S.A.-Laos Friendship, we would like to express our gratitude to you
and your Subcommittee for giving us the opportunity to explain the
reasons for our support of extending U.S. NTR to Laos. We strongly urge
you to move forward legislation to establish Normal Trade Relations
with Laos, which will greatly benefit our two countries and our two
populations. For your high consideration, we are enclosing petitions
signed by members of the Laotian American communities in support of
this letter and granting NTR to Laos.
With great respect,
Charlie J. Chang, Ph.D.
Co-Chair
Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance
Yang Dao, Ph.D.
Chair
Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance
______
Petition of Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance
for USA-Laos Friendship
In support of the Bush Administration's Trade Initiative
To extend Normal Trade Relations to Laos
We, the undersigned, are Americans of Laotian descents (Lao, Hmong,
Khmu, U-Mien, Lue, Thai-Dam) hereby express our full support of the
Bush Administration Trade Initiative in Southeast Asia and its
extension of Normal Trade Relations to Laos.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
First Name Last Name City State
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Charlie.............................. Chang.................. Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
May Xee.............................. Ly..................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blong................................ Ly..................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neng................................. Lee.................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tong................................. Thao................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bob.................................. Lientakune............. Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mee.................................. Inthoulay.............. Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chann................................ Saenphimmachak......... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pep.................................. Inthoulay.............. Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Washer............................... Moua................... Demoine................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xai.................................. Cha.................... Woodinville............ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lucy................................. Thao................... Woodinville............ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Toulu................................ Cha.................... Snoqualmie............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jer.................................. Cha.................... Snoqualmie............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Laotheng............................. Jasengnou.............. Carnation.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carol................................ Cha.................... Carnation.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blai/Prai............................ Xiong.................. Carnation.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Judy................................. Cha.................... Carnation.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jason................................ Xiong.................. Kent................... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Youa................................. Moua................... Kent................... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tony................................. Cha.................... Carnation.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JoAnn................................ Lee.................... Carnation.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Baothai.............................. Cha-Thao............... Redmond................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Natalie.............................. Thao................... Redmond................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Manda................................ Thao................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yee.................................. Cha.................... Redmond................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frances.............................. Primero................ Kent................... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pa................................... Cha.................... Carnation.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chue................................. Chang.................. Renton................. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mai.................................. Thao................... Bellevue............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Leng................................. Lee.................... Bellevue............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kaying............................... Xiong.................. Snomomish.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tong................................. Xiong.................. Carnation.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ma................................... Thao................... Carnation.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nicole............................... Cha.................... Carnation.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blialee.............................. Lor.................... Bellevue............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neng Xiong........................... Thao................... Bellevue............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blong................................ Cha.................... Carnation.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neng................................. Yang................... Snohomish.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chadoua.............................. Lor.................... Bellevue............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nengva............................... Cha.................... Bellevue............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Youa Her............................. Lor.................... Bothel................. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chue Meng............................ Cha.................... Bellevue............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mo................................... Cha.................... Bellevue............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pa................................... Yang................... Bothel................. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yia.................................. Yang................... Bellevue............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neng................................. Vang................... Bellevue............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ia................................... Lao.................... Lynnwood............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Soua................................. Vue.................... Lynnwood............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Andy................................. Khamboon............... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
May.................................. Chang.................. Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vang................................. Xiong.................. Carnation.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jaylie............................... Xiong.................. Kirkland............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xiong................................ Lee.................... Kirkland............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mansak............................... Laotheng............... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chien................................ Vongdara............... Auburn................. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sou.................................. Hang................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vang................................. Ying................... Demoines............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vangva............................... Her.................... Desmoines.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nou.................................. Xiong.................. Turkwla................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Terry................................ Light.................. Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Key.................................. Hang................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khouseach............................ Sack................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vanh................................. Her.................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Robert............................... Hang................... Renton................. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tong X............................... Hang................... Renton................. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chertoua............................. Hang................... Seatac................. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inponp............................... Rasabout............... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kham................................. Praseuth............... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Laovu................................ Jasengnou.............. Carnation.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Laocheng............................. Jasengnou.............. Carnation.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chay Ya.............................. Cha.................... Carnation.............. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tsu.................................. Zeb.................... Kirkland............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eu................................... Lee.................... Everett................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dang................................. Moua................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maiker............................... Thao................... Everett................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Leng................................. Hang................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Der.................................. Xiong.................. Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chue................................. Hang................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bounhom.............................. Bounyarith............. Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Moune................................ Phoumiong.............. Kirkland............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thavone.............................. Saysanasy.............. Kirkland............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xia.................................. Thao................... Kirkland............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Boualai.............................. Khounuchi.............. Kirkland............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anan................................. Eaidrueng.............. Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Orlando.............................. Dollente............... Kirkland............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Quenyuen............................. Tran................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bao Hang............................. Chang.................. Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Boun................................. Hai.................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thai................................. Vang................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kao.................................. Vang................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thao................................. Say Chang.............. Renton................. Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yohang............................... Xiong.................. Kirkland............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neng................................. Yang................... Kirkland............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Peng................................. Vang................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Teng................................. Thao................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Moua................................. Thao................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chai................................. Thao................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Iab.................................. Yang................... Seattle................ Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cha.................................. Chasengnou............. Bellevue............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khampoun............................. Vilayvanh.............. Bellevue............... Washington
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<F-dash>
The Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos Friendship
Wisconsin State Representation
Wausau, Wisconsin 55443
April 15, 2003
The Honorable Phillip Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
House Ways & Means Committee
233 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Chairman Crane:
We are a group of Laotian Americans from various ethnic backgrounds
of Laos (Lao, Hmong, Khmu, U-Mien, Thaidam, Lue, etc.). We all came
together to form the Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos
Friendship, whose ultimate purpose is to promote education, economic
development, and social and political progress within the Laotian
multi-ethnic communities both in the United States and Laos.
On behalf of our Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos
Friendship, which has representation in various states of the United
States, we have the honor of writing to urge you to move forward
legislation to establish Normal Trade Relations (NTR) with Laos. We are
well aware that NTR with Laos has been strongly endorsed by Secretary
of State Powell and U.S. Trade Representative Zoellick. As new
Americans having roots in Laos, we would like to express our strong
support of the Bush Administration's Trade Initiative in Southeast Asia
and, more particularly, its extension of Normal Trade Relations with
Laos.
Our Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos Friendship is not
unaware of human rights abuses, ethnic profiling, religious
discrimination, etc. in Laos after the takeover by the communist Pathet
Lao in 1975. Fearing for our life, along with our families, we fled the
country--mostly by foot--across Laotian jungles to take the road of
exile. Dr. Yang Dao,<SUP>(1)</SUP> a Hmong educator and scholar and the
current National Chair of this alliance in support of the Bush
Administration's Trade Initiative, wrote several
articles,<SUP>(2)</SUP> published as early as 1980 in France and in the
U.S., denouncing arbitrary arrests by the communist Pathet Lao
authorities who had sent tens of thousand royal Lao cadres, technicians
and intellectuals to the ``political reeducation camps'',<SUP>(3)</SUP>
and condemning the communist Pathet Lao's violent repression against
the Hmong population in Northeastern Laos. These efforts have
contributed to the many but slow changes made by the current government
of Laos.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\(1)\ Yang Dao is a Hmong from Laos. He received his Ph.D. in
social science at the Sorbonne, University of Paris, France, in 1972.
From 1972 to 1974, he was a director in the Ministry of Planning of the
Royal Lao Government. From April 1974 to May 1975, he was appointed by
the King of Laos to the National Political Council of Coalition
(Congress) of the Kingdom of Laos. He has authored and co-authored
several books on Hmong history, culture and traditions. He is now a
faculty member of the Asian Cultures and Literatures Department of the
University of Minnesota.
\(2)\ Gas Warfare: the Communist Solution to the Problems of the
Minorities in Laos (in French) in Les Temps Modernes, Paris, France,
1980; Why Did the Hmong Leave Laos? (in English) in Hmong in the West,
University of Minnesota, U.S.A. in 1982; and Human Rights and Gas
Warfare in Laos (in English) in Southeast Asia Review, Geneva,
Switzerland, 1984.
\(3)\ The ``political reeducation camps'', established along the
Laos-Vietnam border after the takeover Laos by the communist Pathet Lao
in 1975, reportedly looked like the Soviet gulags.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
However, twenty eight years have passed since the Vietnam War ended
in 1975, and the world has profoundly changed. In 1991, democracy
prevailed over Communism in the former U.S.S.R. In October 2002, China
officially adopted a more liberal system leading toward capitalism.
Under international political and economic pressures, Laos must follow
this move. According to the Bush Administration and the U.S. Embassy in
Vientiane, Laos is showing signs of moving toward religious freedom,
human rights and economic reforms. After 27 years of exile, Dr. Yang
Dao was invited by the government of the Lao People's Democratic
Republic to visit Laos in November 2002. He observed that the current
Lao Government has adopted a multi-ethnic policy to consolidate
national unity in Laos, and as a result, Hmong, Khmu and other Laotian
ethnic minorities are actively participating in the government, filling
regional and national leadership positions ranging from city mayor to
provincial governor to government minister. Thus, for the first time in
Laotian history, a Laotheung <SUP>(4)</SUP> has become the Prime
Minister of Laos and a Hmong woman acts as the Vice-President of the
Laotian National Assembly.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\(4)\ Laotheung is the largest ethnic minority which includes the
Khmu group and represents 27 percent of the total population of Laos.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
In these new perspectives, our Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for
U.S.A.-Laos Friendship strongly believes that, if granted, the U.S.
Normal Trade Relations (NTR) will have a catalytic effect on the rate
of economic, social and political reforms in Laos.
a.
Economic Reform:
LThe US NTR would contribute to creating crucial opportunities to
increase employment in Laos by providing legal and institutional
frameworks which would develop the private sector and encourage foreign
investments to accelerate the economic reform in Laos. This will
further strengthen anti-narcotic efforts by strengthening substitute
crops and industries (coffee, tropical fruits, medicinal plants, etc.).
The US NTR, indeed, would reduce duties to 2.4% and allow Laos to
export agricultural products and other kinds of merchandise to U.S.
markets. This transaction would benefit both the multi-ethnic
population of Laos and the Laotian-American community.
b.
Social Reform:
LBy establishing a constructive dialogue with Laotian
authorities, the US NTR would contribute to promoting social welfare
and to developing the education system in Laos. Standardizing education
in Laos would create a strong foundation for social reform which
respects human rights and defends social justice for all Laotian
citizens of all ethnic backgrounds. The Lao, Hmong, Khmu, U-Mien, Thai-
Dam, Lue, and other Laotian peoples would live in the same community of
destiny: national consciousness.
c.
Political Reform:
LThrough a mutual understanding and trust with the Laotian
government, the US NTR would contribute to accelerating political
reform by promoting civil rights and democratic liberties. Such
political reform would contribute to strengthening national solidarity,
assuring political stability in Laos and maintaining peace in Southeast
Asia and the world over.
Our Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos Friendship
strongly supports the Bush Administration's Trade Initiative and its
extension of Normal Trade Relations with Laos for these reasons above,
as well as the following:
1. To Enhance U.S.A.-Laos Special Relations
Since Laos became an independent country in 1954, its diplomatic
relations with the U.S.A. have never been interrupted in spite of
political difficulties and ideological changes. By irony of fate, today
this tiny country is still denied NTR status which has been granted to
Vietnam and Cambodia which, paradoxically, broke ties with the United
States during the Vietnam War and its aftermath. Therefore, our Multi-
Laotian Ethnic Alliance for U.S.A.-Laos Friendship feels that it is
only fair that NTR treatment be also extended to Laos, whose human
rights record is not worse than that of Cambodia, Vietnam or China. NTR
status indeed will contribute to heal the wounds of the past, to
strengthen U.S.A.-Laos friendship and to help the Laotian people from
all ethnic backgrounds who still have parents, brothers, sisters and
relatives both in Laos and in the United States of America to work
together for the future.
2. U.S. Economic Expansion in Southeast Asia:
Laos is a landlocked and poor country with a population of 5.2
millions. However it possesses a significant amount of arable land (50%
of which is still covered with dense forests), a variety of natural
resources (iron, zinc, silver, gold, sapphire, etc.) and a huge reserve
of hydroelectric resources which draws the attention of a number of
potential suitors. Since 1987, Laos has become a member of the
Association of Southeast Asian Nations (A.S.E.A.N.), which includes
Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines,
Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. A.S.E.A.N. countries constitute a
market of 500 million people. Laos' main exports include electricity,
garments, wood and wood products, coffee, small handicrafts, hand-made
textiles, and some agricultural and forest products. Its trading
partners are mainly countries in the SE Asian sub-region, particularly
Thailand and Vietnam.
In 1998, Laos's textile products were granted quota and duty free
status by the European Union (EU). Since then, about 25% of its total
garment exports are sold to EU countries, particularly France. China is
moving forward with negotiations with Laos and other A.S.E.A.N.
countries for a China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and Japan and
Europe are also beginning to implement similar arrangements with
A.S.E.A.N.
In this international trading context, it is in the interest of the
United States to extend NTR status to Laos, which plays an increasing
role in Southeast Asia and in the world, attested by its hosting in
2002 the first A.S.E.A.N.-EU trade meeting, in Vientiane, capital of
Laos. With U.S. NTR and with its low labor and energy costs and
tremendous amounts of arable land, Laos would be able to export to the
United States processed tropical food, instant coffee, and other labor-
intensive products such as shoes and leather items as well as some
minerals. Furthermore, given its unique culture and ethnic diversity,
Laos would sell its silk weavings, furniture and timber products, and
Hmong traditional clothing to meet the needs of about 500,000 Laotian
Americans of various ethnic backgrounds and more than one million Asian
Americans from different cultures in the United States of America
active in the U.S. market.
3. To Increase U.S. Political Presence in Southeast Asia:
Right in the middle of the Mekong River region, Laos has always
been a crossroad of migrations and trade from China to Cambodia and
from Thailand to Vietnam. Thus, for centuries, its geographic situation
made this tiny country an avenue for transit of goods and ideas.
Contemporary history demonstrated Laos' strategic importance during the
Vietnam conflict.
In this context, Laos is called to play a more and more important
role in Asia, due to its geographic situation and its various natural
resources. ``At any time, officials from China, Vietnam and Thailand
are courting their Lao counterparts in the hope that their efforts will
be rewarded with mining, hydropower and logging contracts, and
convenient access to each other's markets'' wrote Catherine McKinley,
in a Dow Jones Newswire Column (February 4, 2003).
Therefore, extending the NTR status to Laos would greatly
contribute to reinforcing the U.S. presence in Southeast Asia. With the
increasing threat of international terrorism, this presence is
essential to maintaining peace and political stability in Asia.
In conclusion, on behalf of our Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance for
U.S.A.-Laos Friendship, we would like to express our gratitude to you
and your Subcommittee for giving us the opportunity to explain the
reasons for our support of extending U.S. NTR to Laos. We strongly urge
you to move forward legislation to establish Normal Trade Relations
with Laos, which will greatly benefit our two countries and our two
populations. For your high consideration, we are enclosing petitions
signed by members of the Laotian American communities in support of
this letter and granting NTR to Laos.
With great respect,
Mr. San Souvannasoth
Co-Chair
Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance
Yang Dao, Ph.D.
Chair
Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance
______
Petition of Laotian Multi-Ethnic Alliance
for USA-Laos Friendship
In support of the Bush Administration's Trade Initiative
To extend Normal Trade Relations to Laos
We, the undersigned, are Americans of Laotian descents (Lao, Hmong,
Khmu, U-Mien, Lue, Thai-Dam) hereby express our full support of the
Bush Administration Trade Initiative in Southeast Asia and its
extension of Normal Trade Relations to Laos.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
First Name Last Name City State
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sou.................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Soua................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jer X................................ Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wa Thao.............................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wang Chou............................ Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kou.................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pao.................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
David................................ Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chang Say............................ Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xong................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shoua................................ Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Emily................................ Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Youa V............................... Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nou.................................. Xiong.................. Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wang Sao............................. Yang................... Weston................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Plia K............................... Yang................... Weston................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xay T................................ Yang................... Germantown............. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cher................................. Yang................... Germantown............. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Francois............................. Yang................... Rockford............... Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tracey............................... Yang................... Rockford............... Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chu Lao.............................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chi V................................ Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Michel............................... Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jessica.............................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Joshua............................... Hes.................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Leeann............................... Hes.................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ka Phout............................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
May.................................. Xiong.................. Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xiong................................ Chang.................. Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ngee................................. Xiong.................. Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ka Ying.............................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sua T................................ Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Peter................................ Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zer.................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tong................................. Yang................... Weston................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Youa................................. Yang................... Weston................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Choua................................ Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chao................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chasing.............................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Youa................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carl................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xao.................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neng................................. Xiong.................. Schofield.............. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chue Lee............................. Khang.................. Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chia Yang............................ Khang.................. Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tou Ya............................... Khang.................. Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wang Lue............................. Lee.................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chue................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chou Y............................... Lee.................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neng................................. Yang................... Schofield.............. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Touhoua.............................. Yang................... Schofield.............. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maikou............................... Yang................... Schofield.............. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kia S................................ Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ker L................................ Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shoua................................ Thao................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Da Lee............................... Lor.................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tai.................................. Lor.................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yong Lee............................. Lor.................... ....................... Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Doua................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thong................................ Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tong................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cher Bee............................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chiasu............................... Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sue.................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wa Neng.............................. Yang................... Schofield.............. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ong.................................. Yang................... Schofield.............. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wa Thao.............................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shoua................................ Lor.................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neng................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tou.................................. Xiong.................. Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fu................................... Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ya................................... Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chue................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lue.................................. Lee.................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mee.................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ber.................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jordan............................... Lee.................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frank................................ Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tracie............................... Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blong................................ Yang................... Rothschild............. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tong................................. Yang................... Rothschild............. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Beu.................................. Yang................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jordan............................... Lee.................... Wausau................. Wisconsin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<F-dash>
Morrisville, North Carolina 27560
The Honorable Chairman Williams Thomas
and Congressional members of the Ways and Means Committee
2208 Rayburn HOB
Washington, D.C. 20515-0522
Dear Chairman Thomas,
I am writing this letter to give my CONDITIONAL support for NTR to
Laos.
I am a Hmong-American who was born in the United States. This issue
is an issue that hits home for many Hmong-Americans. As you well know,
Hmong-Americans have a stake in regards to Normal Trade Relations (NTR)
to Laos due to family ties in Laos. As young Hmong-American, I
understand that NTR will provide an avenue for change both social and
economic in Laos. Laos should not be left in isolation and we should
engage to promote change.
What concerns me is that currently, the majority of the population
that resides in Laos lives in poverty. With NTR, the citizens of Laos
will be open to exploitation such as sweat shops and child labor.
We must critically and strategically analyze that Southeast Asia as
a whole will help us (the United States) in the future as China grows
into a trading superpower. We will need to have an influence in that
region of the world. That is why, it is imperative that our agreement
(NTR) be tailored to assist a developing Laos. We must also analyze the
current social and economic infrastructure of Laos before we grant NTR.
NTR should bring economic prosperity to Laos but it must also bring our
ideologies such as freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and
democracy.
I understand that our government has good intention to improve the
standard of living of the Lao people by wanting to grant NTR to Laos.
With NTR, we expect that it will be a tool to help change things in
Laos, especially as a catalyst for economic change within Laos and that
it will promote trade with the US, and vice versa. At the same time,
the we hope that NTR will help ``promote other changes'', including
``stronger rule of law: commercial, environmental, treatment of
workers, even human rights.'' Ultimately, from the our point of view,
NTR should bring about ``changes'' in Laos, leading to ``greater
economic and political freedoms in Laos, stronger rule of law and a
better life for those involved in trade destined for the U.S. market or
doing business with Americans.''
While in theory, our intention is noble and good but in reality,
NTR alone will not be able to deliver the intended ideal for Laos. A
couple of problems in Laos are the direct result of some fundamental
issues: (1) the non-conducive ideological policies of the current Phak
Pasason Lao (Lao People's Revolutionary Party). Phak Pasason Laos is
the ``central nucleus'' of Laos, having the ultimate power; (2) the
Vietnamese domination of Laos.
Hence, to have an impact in Laos, as we expect, the NTR need to be
granted as a ``Package'' contained measures and CONDITIONS that are
workable, measurable and effective to: (1) lessen the grip of Vietnam
on Laos and (2) with incentives for ideological fundamental changes in
Laos to pave the way for a truly democratic government.
Some of the measures and conditions include:
1. Ideological Change is the first pre-requisite for real change in
Laos.
LThe current Lao Government, who has been in power since 1975, is
a one Party, authoritarian system that has the ultimate power above the
law of the land as outlined clearly in Article 3 of the 1991 Lao
Constitution which states that ``The rights of the multi-ethnic people
to be the masters of the country are exercised and ensured through the
functioning of the political system with the Lao People's Revolutionary
Party as its leading nucleus.'' A problem in Laos is the direct result
of the divisive, non-reconciliatory, outdated and on-conducive
ideological policies of the current Phak Pasason Lao (Lao People's
Revolutionary Party), being the ``central nucleus'' of Laos--the seat
of power. The resultant effect of the Phak Pasason Lao is the
continuation of economic management, political instability, Human Right
violation, and religious persecutions. So, how can we make NTR
effective in order to change the current ideology of Laos?
2. Vietnam has substantial influence on the current Lao Government:
LAmbassador Hartwick can confirm that before any Lao Government
Official or Citizen takes a post within the government. They are sent
to Vietnam for training before accepting the position. I learned of
this from Ambassador Hartwick on his last trip to Washington, D.C.
where there was a briefing held in the Rayburn Building in the Gold
Room. From history, we can understand why there is a relationship
between the Lao and Vietnamese Governments. As an American, I value
individualism as well as coalitions. I feel that Laos should be an
individual unto its own versus being an understudy to another country.
The Committee needs no reminder that the current Lao People's
Revolutionary Party (PPRP) and many of its ruling elite are the
offspring of the Indochinese Communist Party (ICP) with the aim to
create an Indochinese Federation as propagated by the ICP. The PPRP had
violated the 1962 Geneva Accord, and the 1973 Vientiane Agreement, and
took over Laos in 1975. Since 1975, Laos has been a influenced by the
Vietnamese government and that the economic and political instability
in Laos are the direct result of the Lao Communist Government policies.
As long as Vietnam continues to influence Laos and the current regime
in Vientiane remains unchanged, there will be Human rights violation,
oppression, corruption and tyranny by the ruling elite. I hope that the
conditions in NTR will promote Laos to change? Otherwise, NTR will not
be able to deliver our promise to the people of Laos without
fundamental change in Laos and this fundamental change is no more or
less as it required in the case of Afghanistan and Iraq.
Without the fundamental changes in Laos, the benefits of NTR will
only be realized for the elite/upper-class, while NTR will be a dream
for the impoverished. Such as the saying, ``4% of the worlds population
owns 80% of the worlds wealth.'' This will be the case in Laos, if NTR
is not coupled with conditions.
In conclusion, if we want ``changes'' in Laos and to help the
common people of Laos, NTR can only work if it contains a ``Total
Package'' to pave the way for Laos to be a truly democratic and
independent nation. Without these fundamental changes, it will be a
band-aid solution. The Lao people, who have sacrifice so much for the
US during the Vietnam War, deserve to have the same opportunity as the
Iraqi people to create their future by their own free-willing spirit.
Thank you for your time,
Pao Lo
Hmong-American
<F-dash>
Louisiana Regional Lao Republicans
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70810
Honorable Mr. Philip M. Crane
Chairman Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
United States Congress
Dear Congressman Crane
On behalf of the Louisiana Regional Lao Republicans we praise you
for your effort protecting DEMOCRACY throughout the world.
Many of our familymembers are still living under the oppression of
the communist government of LAOS. We urge you to OPPOSE any additional
trade with the communist of LAOS. Allow trade to resume ONLY when the
people of Lao achive DEMOCRACY, FREEDOM, RESPECT for human rights and
the rule of law.
Respectfully
Somdy Rasy
<F-dash>
Falls Church, Virginia 22041
To
Honorable E. Grassley, Chairman, Committee of Finance, United States
Senate
Honorable William M. Thomas, Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means,
House of Representatives
E-mail hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
Fax (202) 225 2610
Honorable,
As an American Citizen, I wholeheartedly support the joint proposal
of Honorable Colin L. Powell, State Secretary and Honorable Robert B.
Zoellick, US Trade Representative in granting the Permanent Normal
Trade Relations to the Lao People's Democratic Republic.
The Lao PDR is the only country in the area that does not have such
facility yet, even though its Politico-Social situations are far better
than others.
I should appreciate if you could take the said proposal and my
noble wish in consideration and render to Laos the fairness and real
touch of the US generosity toward a country that maintains good
relations and cooperations with the United States.
Once again I thank you very much for your kind cooperation
Sincerely yours,
Kouy Luangphinith
<F-dash>
New York, New York 10012
April 21, 2003
Hearing Clerk
Ways and Means Committee
US House of Representatives
Dear Congressional Representatives on the House Ways and Means
Committee:
I strongly urge you to pass NTR for Lao PDR. I worked in Vietnam
for four years, two of them for the US Commercial Service in Hanoi
(1997-1999), and saw first hand the mutual benefits normalized trade
relations have for countries. I have also traveled in Laos and
understand that while very different economies, the fundamental impact
of a trade agreement with the United States would be similar.
Benefits from NTR are more than just monetary for a country like
Vietnam or Laos. The process of negotiation and restructuring to comply
with any trade agreement with the U.S. entails tough choices on the
part of the leaders of the country, and necessitates a strong
commitment to open markets, accountability, and strengthening of the
legal system. While Laos may not be an important trading partner for
the U.S. financially, I firmly believe that NTR will bring stability
and growth to the region, which on aggregate is vitally important to
America's international trade with Asia and general security.
Please take this opportunity to pass NTR for Laos.
Sincerely,
Tara McAuliff
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Mekong Law Group
Bangkok 10110, Thailand
April 10, 2003
Congressman Philip M. Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways & Means
United States House of Representatives
COMMENTS SUBMITTED IN RESPONSE TO REQUEST FOR WRITTEN COMMENTS ON
NORMAL TRADE RELATIONS FOR LAOS
STATEMENT IN SUPPORT OF NTR FOR LAO P.D.R.
My name is David Doran. I have worked as a legal adviser in
Cambodia, Laos and Thailand for over 10 years. I started out my career
in this region with Baker & McKenzie's Bangkok office in 1992. From
there, I joined Dirksen Flipse Doran & Le as a founding partner in
1994. I started our Phnom Penh office in January 1995. I moved to
Thailand two months ago to establish our Bangkok office.
I received my Juris Doctor degree from the University of Washington
School of Law, where I was on Law Review. I received a post graduate
decree in law and economics from the Graduate Institute of
International Studies in Geneva, with highest marks. While in Geneva, I
also clerked at the GATT (now WTO). I am a member of the California and
Washington State Bar Associations.
I am writing to ask that the United States Congress grant Normal
Trade Relations (NTR) to the Lao P.D.R (``Laos'').
Background to DFDL
The core business of my firm is to provide commercial and corporate
legal services to foreign investors and lenders operating in Laos and
Cambodia. We are the leading firm in both countries. Most of our
clients are international companies, some being major U.S. companies.
We are well known and respected by the U.S. Embassy in Cambodia and
Laos, and have represented the U.S. Government on a number of
significant matters in Cambodia. We currently have 11 lawyers in the
three countries.
I do NOT provide my comments on behalf of the Lao Government, or
any Lao government institution, or any clients. In fact, during the
course of our representation of clients in Laos, we have occasionally
been required to take positions on behalf of our clients against
government action or policies in both countries.
Nonetheless, we strongly support NTR for Laos.
My Cambodia Experience
My experience in Cambodia shows that NTR can have very significant
and wide reaching benefits. Not only is NTR an important stimulus by
itself, it also opens the door to many other significant benefits.
Cambodia received NTR from the U.S. on September 25, 1996. NTR
opened the door for the garment sector to create thousands of jobs for
poor Cambodians, thereby earning the country important foreign exchange
and stimulating economic growth in other sectors. It also opened the
door for the grant of GSP and was the first step in Cambodia's rapid
advance toward accession to the WTO.
In short, NTR has been a key catalyst in propelling Cambodia into
the community of trading nations. I believe it can also have this
positive effect in Laos.
The Committee is most certainly already aware of the direct
benefits that NTR would have in Laos and I will not go into these in
detail in these Comments.
I would like to highlight for the Committee the importance of NTR
for Laos in relation to GSP. GSP is very significant for countries like
Laos and Cambodia because such countries can benefit substantially from
the graduation of Thailand and other ASEAN countries from GSP. Cambodia
and Thailand already have a well developed plan to relocate ``GSP''
factories from Thailand to Cambodia, further generating growth and jobs
for Cambodia's poor. Laos shares a long, open border with Thailand, and
would also benefit considerably from such GSP relocation factories.
However, without NTR, there will be no GSP.
Why Does Laos Deserve NTR?
To answer this key question, I would again like to draw on my
experience in Cambodia. I supported NTR for Cambodia in 1996 and
participated in a committee aimed at encouraging the Cambodian
government to take the steps necessary to obtain NTR. We strongly
believe that if Cambodia deserved NTR in 1996, (which it did), Laos
certainly deserves NTR now.
1.
LNTR is good for democracy. NTR has assisted to improve economic
growth in Cambodia such that a small new middle class is being created.
And as we have seen elsewhere in Asia, the creation of such a middle
class is key to democracy. I note the strong showing of the opposition
party in Cambodia's communal elections earlier this year.
LI also would point out that while Cambodia held elections in
1993, the government in charge at the time NTR was granted was not the
elected government. NTR was, nonetheless granted.
2.
LThe Legal System in Laos is ahead of Cambodia. The Laos Legal
system is more advanced in many ways than Cambodia's was at the time
that NTR was granted. Even to this day, Cambodia lacks key laws for
commercial and human rights. In Cambodia, there is still no law of
civil procedure, no company law, no bankruptcy law, no mining law, no
domestic arbitration law and no secured transaction law. A modern land
law was only passed recently. All of these laws have existed in Laos
for quite some time. Cambodia had not implemented the N.Y. Convention
on the Enforcement of Arbitral Awards when it was granted NTR, while
Laos has acceded to the Convention.
In short, I believe there is no longer any reason that Laos should
be subject to more stringent conditions for NTR than conditions imposed
on Cambodia when it was granted NTR. It is time for the U.S. to assist
the people of Laos by opening up its market equally to Lao goods.
For these reasons, we again ask that the U.S. Congress approve NTR for
Laos.
I thank the Committee and Sub-Committee for considering my
comments.
Sincerely yours,
David Doran
Director, Mekong Region
Copy provided to:
Mr. Douglas A. Hartwick, U.S. Ambassador to Lao P.D.R.
Honorable Jon Huntsman, Deputy Director, USTR
Ms. Francis Zwenig, US-ASEAN Business Counsel
LIST OF ORGANIZATIONS REPRESENTED BY WITNESS
I am writing as a witness on behalf of
(1) Dirksen Flipse Doran & Le (Laos) Co. Ltd
(2) Dirksen Flipse Doran & Le (Cambodia) Co. Ltd.
(3) Mekong Law Group--Cambodia & Thailand
<F-dash>
Mennonite Central Committee
Akron, Pennsylvania 17501
April 16, 2003
Attn: Hearing Clerk
House Ways and Means
202-225-2610
Chairman Philip Crane
House Subcommittee on Trade
Attn: Hearing Clerk
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Chairman Crane,
I am writing on behalf of Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) to
state our strong support for granting Normal Trade Relations (NTR) to
the Lao PDR.
MCC is the relief, development and peace-building agency of
Mennonite and Brethren in Christ churches and has maintained a presence
in Laos since 1975. Now more than 25 years after the end of the Vietnam
War, we believe that granting NTR status to Laos, a country with which
the United States never broke diplomatic ties, is long overdue and an
appropriate gesture of reconciliation.
Moreover, normal trade relations have the potential to contribute
positively to efforts to overcome poverty in the country. Private
sector trade and investment have a clear impact on the population with
which we work. Since the mid-1980's, we have worked with an artisans'
cooperative to improve quality and marketability of their products.
Some of these products are marketed in North America through an MCC-
related program, Ten Thousand Villages. However, our ability to market
these products is severely limited by the high tariffs imposed by the
United States.
The U.S. government presently spends a sizeable amount of money in
Laos to develop income alternatives to the production of opium. One
component of the U.S. government's efforts in Laos is the promotion of
silk production and weaving. The marketing of this craft is being
restricted by lack of fair access to U.S. markets. Removing a major
trade barrier would enhance that effort and give new income options to
local craft producers at little or no added cost to the United States.
The bilateral trade agreement between Laos and the United States
was signed in 1997. We encourage you to move implementing legislation
through the Congress without delay.
Thank you for your attention to our views.
Sincerely,
Betsy Headrick McCrae
Director, East Asia Program
<F-dash>
Movement for Democracy in Laos (MDL)
Burnsville, Minnesota 55337
The Honorable Congressman
Chaiman, Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
United States Congress
Dear Congressman:
The Movement for Democracy in Laos (MDL) calls on the United States of
America Administration and the Congress to delay the granting of Normal
Trade Relations (NTR) status to the Lao Communist Government.
The Movement for Democracy in Laos is fighting for human rights,
freedom, and democracy in Laos,
<bullet> Lapplauds the US government's policies of engagement with
the Lao Communist Government and many approaches of humanitarian
aspects with regards to the Lao people. However, many fundamental
issues relating to the interest of both countries, Laos and the USA
remain pending since the dictatorial communist rule in Laos, instead of
seeing the burden decreased.
<bullet> Lappeals to the US Administration, the Congress, the
American public and the humanitarian organizations to sift thoroughly
any practical steps for the benefit of both American and Lao people
concerning the granting of the NTR to the Lao Communist Government.
For, we consider that this topical issue should not be barred from all
comprehensive and original problems.
<bullet> Lconsiders that the NTR will not be beneficial at all to
the American and Lao people and, on the contrary, will profit only
communist leaders. The NTR will further abuse human rights while
aggravating rampant corruption, especially among the ruling leaders,
and, to crown it all, will reinforce the power of oppression of the
Party's communist dictatorship and worsen the dire poverty of the vast
majority of the Lao people.
<bullet> Lstates that, all things considered, our organization has
at all times expressed our views. Our organization on various occasions
has called on the Great Powers, different governments and parliaments
involved in Laos affairs, and the United Nations representing the world
community to put pressure on the Lao Government to respect its own
constitution, and its international obligations and the United Nations'
Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Unfortunately, however, in all
aspects of the ruling authority of the Lao Administration of one-party
dictatorship and the conditions of the Lao people's life, the situation
of Laos is getting more and more deteriorated. The Lao people still
live ever more impoverished, backward and ignorant, shut away and
cloistered from the outside world due to the misinformation media
system of the Lao Authority. Any economic benefits, if they ever
existed, from the NTR status, would only further enhance and perpetuate
the oppressive and prosecutorial regime of the Lao Communist
totalitarian government.
<bullet> Lcharges the Lao People Democratic Republic has a long
tradition and dictatorial principle of deceptive and untruthful
practices and, further, ceaselessly denies all of its acts of
brutality, and its arrest and continued incarceration of the student
leaders. Witnessed by the European parliamentarian protesters and
unmasked by the students participating in the demonstration of 1999 who
were able to escape Laos after the failed attempt, as well as, by the
Amnesty International public statement of October 25, 2002, proof to
grievous humanitarian infractions are substantiated. The disappearance
of Michael Vang and his companion Houa Ly in Laos four years ago is
another proof of insecure working conditions in Laos.
<bullet> Lbelieves that granting the NTR status in this
inappropriate moment conveys a flawed message. The Lao PDR continues
its arrogant and hardened stance, as evidenced by its having never
flinched an ounce to the appeals, advices, and warnings of most of the
countries giving assistance to Laos with respect to human rights,
religious freedom, decent treatment of political prisoners and their
unconditional release. Thus, granting NTR status inadvertently
constitutes the wrong message to the multi-ethnic Lao people as rewards
to the dictatorial government.
<bullet> Lbelieves, as the Movement for Democracy in Laos
representing the Lao overseas voice, that there will be a time when NTR
status will benefit the vast majority of the multi-ethnic Lao people.
That beneficial opportunity will come when the Lao people can freely
elect, without fear and or threat, their own legitimate representative
form of government not one imposed upon them by a one dictatorial
party-state government as they are currently forced to endure. The MDL
reiterates its call for delaying the granting of NTR status until human
rights violations are ceased and all of our petitions and request for
an immediate and unconditional release of all political and religious
prisoners held in various prisons or ``re-education'' camps through
Laos are met.
The Movement for Democracy in Laos seizes this occasion to renew to
the US government and Congress its highest consideration and its best
wishes for their unshakable endeavors for their people's safety.
For the President of the Movement for Democracy in Laos
Bounleuang Kataviravong
The Secretary General
<F-dash>
National Retail Federation
Washington, D.C. 20004
April 21, 2003
Congressman Philip M. Crane
Chairman, Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
VIA EMAIL: hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov and
FAX: (202) 225-2610
Dear Chairman Crane:
In response to the Subcommittee's request for comments on extending
normal trade relations (NTR) to products from Laos, I would like to
state for the record that the National Retail Federation fully supports
such an extension.
The National Retail Federation (NRF) is the world's largest retail
trade association with membership that comprises all retail formats and
channels of distribution including department, specialty, discount,
catalog, Internet and independent stores. NRF members represent an
industry that encompasses more than 1.4 million U.S. retail
establishments, employs more than 23 million people--about 1 in 5
American workers--and registered 2002 sales of $3.6 trillion. In its
role as the retail industry's umbrella group, NRF also represents 32
national and 50 state associations in the U.S. as well as 36
international associations representing retailers abroad.
While there is currently very little business conducted by NRF
member companies in Laos, it is important to note that Laos is the only
Southeast Asian country that is not afforded NTR status. Consequently,
Laos faces the highest tariff rate of any country in the world. As a
result, Laos' exports to the United States have decreased dramatically,
and US investment that once was in Laos has fled for Vietnam, China and
Cambodia because of these countries' NTR status with respect to the
United States.
The Laotian Government has increasingly recognized the importance
of integrating itself into the global economy despite the challenges it
still faces as a result of the Asian Financial crisis and its
geographical disadvantage as a fully landlocked country. By continuing
to subject Laos to the archaic Jackson-Vanik provisions of the Trade
Act of 1974, the United States is inhibiting Laos from fully reaching
its economic potential and effectively shutting out US companies that
are willing to invest in this country. The potential impact on Laos
once it has NTR status is evidenced by the explosive growth in trade
with Cambodia and Vietnam once those countries obtained NTR status.
As you know, Secretary of State Colin Powell and USTR Ambassador
Robert Zoellick have expressed their support for extending NTR for
Laos. I hope that the Subcommittee will act favorably upon this
request.
Sincerely,
Erik O. Autor
Vice President, Int'l Trade Counsel
<F-dash>
Nichols Properties Inc.
Palm Springs, California 92262
April 19, 2003
The Honorable Philip M. Crane, Chairman
VIA FAX: 202-225-2610
House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade U.S. House of
Representatives
1104 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Re: NTR with Laos
Dear Chairman Crane and Members of the Subcommittee:
I write to support normal trade relations (NTR) with Laos, a long
overdue step that will certainly improve trade and benefit businesses
on both sides of the Pacific Ocean. I know that small businesses,
including import-export firms, in our region will be positively
affected by NTR with Laos, and that further delay in this matter can
only have harmful economic effects.
For all of the reasons underlying the joint letter to Congress on
February 24, 2003, from Secretary of State Colin Powell and US Trade
Representative Robert Zoellick, the 1997 trade agreement with Laos
should be implemented. This agreement is beneficial to both Laos, in
the form of increased investment by U.S. firms, and to the U.S., for
example in the protection of property rights held by U.S. interests
within Laos.
Laos clearly seeks to be a responsible player in the international
trade environment. In 1997 Laos joined ASEAN, and it is negotiating
with respect to membership in the World Trade Organization. Moreover,
Laos has a long record of cooperation with the United States in the
search for MIAs.
At this time, when a stronger international economy is of vital
concern to our country, it is clearly in our national interest to take
all reasonable steps, including NTR with Laos, that will promote and
normalize international trade and investment. Continued trade
discrimination against Laos can only be harmful to both of our
countries.
Sincerely,
Stephen C. Nichols
cc: Hon. Mary Bono (via e-mail)
<F-dash>
Statement of NCSJ: Advocates on behalf of Jews in Russia, Ukraine, the
Baltic States & Eurasia
NCSJ: Advocates on behalf of Jews in Russia, Ukraine, the Baltic
States & Eurasia welcomes the opportunity to submit written comments
regarding the extension of Permanent Normal Trade Relations Status
(``PNTR'') to Armenia and Moldova.
NCSJ, representing nearly 50 national organizations and more than
300 local community-based federations, community councils and
committees on Jews in the successor states of the former Soviet Union
(``FSU''), speaks for the organized American Jewish community on issues
affecting the Jewish minority in the successor states. NCSJ evaluates
graduation for each successor state based on a set of country-specific
issues, achievements, and challenges. For over three decades, NCSJ has
mobilized public opinion to oppose human rights violations in the FSU
and the successor states, including such efforts as the 1987 March on
Washington--``Freedom Sunday for Soviet Jews''--which drew an estimated
250,000.
Members of the Committee have earned a place of merit in the
struggle to save the Jewish people in the Soviet Union from the
concerted policy of the Communist Party to extinguish their religion,
culture, and language. Those who met with refuseniks under the eyes of
the KGB, delivered Hebrew texts when they were banned and stood for the
linkage between human rights and trade policy gave courage to those who
struggled for freedom. Jackson-Vanik is a bipartisan issue.
Title IV of the Trade Act of 1974--the Jackson, Vanik, Archer,
Mills Amendment (``Jackson-Vanik'')--was enacted to ``assure the
continued dedication of the United States to fundamental human
rights,'' and in so doing sought to eliminate barriers to emigration,
an internationally recognized human right. Congress has recognized that
Jackson-Vanik has become an instrument of U.S. policy for assessing
certain countries' observance of basic human rights and the protection
of minorities.
THE POSITION OF NCSJ ON GRADUATION
NCSJ supports terminating the application of Title IV (i.e.,
``graduating'') for Soviet successor states, contingent upon resolution
of outstanding concerns and inclusion of appropriate language in the
legislation to graduate. It was on this basis that NCSJ, working
together with this Committee, the United States Government and fellow
American Jewish organizations was able to support the graduation of the
Kyrgyz Republic and the Republic of Georgia in 2000.
As NCSJ testified before the Committee on April 11, 2002, this
organization and its member agencies support the graduation of Russia
from Jackson-Vanik in principle, pending appropriate language in the
graduating legislation. This support was the result of ongoing
discussions with the Administration, interested Members and staff,
community leadership, and others in the United States and Russia.
It is not the position of NCSJ that the terms of Jackson-Vanik
should apply in perpetuity to the successor states. However, graduation
for any successor state must be conditioned upon the development of a
legal structure that guarantees internationally recognized human rights
for its Jewish citizens, and other religious and national/ethnic
minorities. In the absence of such conditions, there is in our opinion
no possibility of establishing democratic institutions applicable to
all citizens.
NCSJ believes that economic growth in the successor states is in
the strategic interest of the United States. We devoted considerable
resources to support enactment of the 1992 Freedom Support Act, and
continue to support the current assistance package as we have advised
every Member of Congress. NCSJ is an active participant in a broad-
based coalition of business, public interest and ethnic organizations
that supports full funding for U.S. foreign assistance through the
Function 150 account. As with freedom of emigration, building
democratic societies in the wake of Soviet tyranny is hardly something
we can afford to take for granted.
Beginning in 1989, the NCSJ Board of Governors endorsed annual
waivers of the Jackson-Vanik Amendment for the Soviet Union and its
successor states. This support was contingent on (1) the President's
affirmation that waivers would encourage emigration and progress on
other humanitarian issues; and (2) assurances concerning a commitment
of further progress in connection with these concerns. Since 1994, NCSJ
has supported semi-annual findings by the President that Armenia and
Moldova, and most of the successor states, are in compliance with
Jackson-Vanik's emigration provisions and have demonstrated progress on
protection of minority rights.
The opening of the doors to emigration is not the exclusive factor
that determines our support for graduation of a given country. NCSJ's
position on graduation is based on substantial progress toward three
factors:
L An unrestricted right of emigration, protection of minority
rights, including legislation to provide protection against
incitement to violence against persons or groups based on
various criteria, including religion (e.g., anti-Semitism), and
the exercise of freedom of religion;
L The incorporation of human rights standards (including
freedom of emigration and religion) into the country's
constitutional and legal structure, their protection by the
judiciary, and the implementation of administrative practices
that do not detract from such rights; and
L Participation in bilateral and multilateral mechanisms
related to the observance of religious freedom and basic human
rights, demonstrating a commitment to these freedoms and
rights.
Although Armenia and Moldova have both gained accession to the
World Trade Organization, the decision to graduate a country from the
Jackson-Vanik Amendment should be based upon those issues which
motivated the original enactment of this law: religious freedom and
human rights.
Representative Bill Archer, later to serve as Chairman of this
Committee, declared his support for the eventual passage of Jackson-
Vanik: ``By taking this action we call upon the Government of the Union
of Soviet Socialist Republics to cease persecution of these people on
the basis of religious belief--. as a result of their attempt to
exercise their religious beliefs and to study their religious heritage
and culture.'' In conclusion, he affirmed, ``We do not need foreign
trade enough to do business with countries that practice religious
discrimination and this form of bondage.''
The Report of the Committee on Finance for the Trade Reform Act of
1974 (H.R. 10710) emphasized that Jackson-Vanik extended beyond
emigration policy. The Report states a deeper motivation beyond that of
emigration: ``The Committee believes that it is equally reasonable to
establish conditions on all basic human rights, including the right to
emigrate as well as basic property rights, before extending broad
concessions to communist countries.'' Writing in 1980, the late Senator
Henry M. ``Scoop'' Jackson reiterated that this law ``has long been the
principal hope of thousands of Soviet Jews and others who have
struggled to obtain visas so that they might emigrate to Israel, the
United States, or other countries where they are free to live and
worship according to their faith--a freedom denied them in the Soviet
Union.''
Especially in the post-Soviet landscape, emigration, the ability of
Jews and other minorities to identify with their cultural heritage,
restitution of communal property, governmental responses to anti-
Semitism and xenophobia as well as commitments on implementation of
laws and practices ensuring minority protection have become part of the
test for graduation. These are reasonable standards and, in effect,
confirm the transition from the legacy of communism to the development
of a civil society.
The following two sections briefly review the status of Armenia and
Moldova regarding substantive concerns of the Jewish community.
Additional information and updates are available online at
www.ncsj.org.
ARMENIA
Armenia's small Jewish community is relatively well treated and
maintains a good working relationship with the government. NCSJ views
Armenia as having been in compliance with the freedom of emigration
requirements of Jackson-Vanik. Although there are no significant
restitution issues concerning Armenia, NCSJ hopes that an appropriate
public space may be made available to the Jewish community as symbolic
compensation for communal properties destroyed during the Soviet
period.
Armenia's participation in local and multilateral mechanisms to
resolve regional disputes is an encouraging sign of future
possibilities. One of Armenia's greatest resources is a sophisticated
and well-educated diaspora community, notably in the United States,
that continues to play a vital role in the continued development of
Armenia's civil society. Currently, in its capacity as a Participating
State of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe
(OSCE), Armenia is participating in the working group to plan an
unprecedented international Conference on Anti-Semitism in the OSCE
Region, scheduled for June 19-20 in Vienna.
MOLDOVA
Moldova is home to a rich variety of Jewish religious and cultural
life, and the government has positive relations with Israel. Emigration
is generally free. Only a fraction of communal property has been
returned to the Jewish population of over 30,000, in contrast to the
Orthodox Church which has resolved nearly all of its outstanding
property claims. Even a handful of properties would make a vital
difference to older double-survivors of the Holocaust and Soviet terror
who now depend on community assistance, and for younger Jews seeking
access to the spiritual and intellectual treasures once denied them.
Lack of progress on communal restitution means more limited resources
must be diverted to paying rent where the community's own buildings
remain beyond reach.
Anti-Semitism remains a feature of Moldovan society, but official
discrimination is relegated to the past and anti-Semitic incidents are
generally investigated and publicly denounced. It is notable that,
earlier this month, the President of Moldova joined Jewish community
leaders and others to mark the 100<SUP>th</SUP> anniversary of the
infamous Kishinev (Chisinau) pogrom, which killed dozens of Jews and
prompted a historic wave of westward emigration. Addressing the past is
indispensable to assuring the future.Appropriate Language for
Graduation
NCSJ recommends strongly that the Ways and Means Committee consider
legislation that clearly expresses the continued long-term commitment
of the United States to free emigration, minority rights, and freedom
of religion. This should proceed within the deliberate context of
ensuring future adherence to international norms and obligations,
thereby advancing the goals of Jackson-Vanik.
In this regard, NCSJ will continue to be in contact both with
Members of the Committee and the Committee staff to present its
detailed views. H.R. 528, introduced by Representatives Joe Knollenberg
and Frank Pallone on February 4, 2003, does not contain language
reflecting any of the points concerning the primary purpose of Jackson-
Vanik--``to assure the continued dedication of the United States to
fundamental human rights . . .''
The longstanding commitment of the United States Congress, which
motivated the passage of Jackson-Vanik as well, will be advanced and
reaffirmed if the legislation to graduate a successor state includes
reference to the following:
L The state has continued to return religious and communal
properties confiscated from national and religious minorities
during the Soviet period, facilitating the reemergence of these
communities in the national life of the country; and has
committed, including through an exchange of letters, to
continue its efforts toward the restitution of such properties
in accordance with existing laws.
L The state is committed to addressing issues related to its
national and religious minorities as a member of the
Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), and
to adopt measures for ensuring that persons belonging to
national minorities have full equality individually, as well as
in community with other members of their group.
L The state is committed to the 1990 Copenhagen Document of
the OSCE affirming the right of national minorities to
establish and maintain their own educational, cultural and
religious institutions, organizations or associations and to
establish and maintain unimpeded contacts among themselves
within their country as well as contacts across frontiers.
L The state has enacted statutory provisions to provide
protection against incitement to violence against persons or
groups based on national, racial, ethnic or religious
discrimination, hostility or hatred, including anti-Semitism.
L Recognition that the exchange of letters between the
Governments of Russia and the United States, and related
assurances, are viewed by Congress as binding obligations by
the Russian Federation.
Since the graduation of the Republic of Georgia (Public Law 106-
476), the United States Government has exchanged letters with most or
all of those successor states still subject to Jackson-Vanik. These
letters contain assurances from the respective governments regarding
freedom of emigration and other human rights. These important documents
should be referenced within the legislation to graduate a given
country, reflecting the shared commitment of the successor government
and the United States Government.
Graduation of a country from Jackson-Vanik does not mean anti-
Semitism has disappeared, or that the authorities are doing all they
could to eradicate racism, xenophobia, and intolerance. Nor does it
mean that the gains for Jewish life are irreversible; this progress
remains vulnerable to the voices of darker days, voices that can be
heard still in the successor states, among citizens, politicians, and
the media. The referencing, in the graduating legislation, of relevant
commitments and progress in this context is more than declaring a
historical triumph of Congressional and U.S. policy. It is a reminder
to those in America and in the successor states that these principles
remain vigorous standards for U.S. policy, that new bilateral and
multilateral mechanisms exist for ensuring them, and that it is on this
basis a given country is removed from Jackson-Vanik.
<F-dash>
Kensington, Maryland 20895
Dear Members of the House Ways and Means Committee,
I am writing to urge you to take the lead in supporting Normal
Trade Relations with Laos.
U.S. and Lao diplomatic ties have withstood many difficulties over
the years-never having been broken even during the years of the U.S.-
Indochina war. Laos cooperates with the U.S. in the search for MIAs in
Laos and shares our interest in stopping narcotics traffic.
Laos is a very poor, landlocked country of only a few million
inhabitants. It has been introducing economic reforms since 1986. Laos
became part of ASEAN in 1997 and is negotiating membership in the WTO.
NTR will provide the legal authority for U.S. and Lao companies to
pursue good trade investments and will obligate Laos to protect U.S.
property rights.
I have visited Laos several times. Visitors from the U.S. are
warmly welcomed in this charming, off-the-beaten-track country. It is
time for us to grant NTR to Laos. Secretary of State Powell and U.S.
Trade Representative Zoelick have spoken to the Administration's
support for NTR status for Laos to fulfill a 1997 bilateral trade
agreement.
Sincerely,
Carlie Numi
<F-dash>
Odlo U.S.A.
Farmington, Maine 04938
March 12, 2003
Chairman, House Ways & Means Sub-Committee
Honorable Philip Crane
Re NTR Laos
Since 1997 we have purchased textile garments from Laos, and
consequently paid 50-90% duty rates as unfavored nation status (column
2). We now understand this situation may change, as there is a movement
to consider granting NTR to Lao.
I have written repeated letters dating back to 1997, to House Ways
& Means, as well as Senate Finance members, additionally my own State
of Maine Senators, Snowe & Collins, requesting such legislation. I am
delighted to read of this movement and accordingly voice my support and
encouragement to approve the vote.
It has always struck me as very odd, that all of SoEast Asia has
NTR except Lao, and these countries (Vietnam, Cambodia, China, etc)
export to USA at 20-30% rates of duty, compared to the 50-90% which my
company has been forced to pay for identical garments.
Secondly, the factories which I engage, Lao Garment Co Ltd. and
Trio Laos Export Co., are equal or superior in every aspect of quality,
workers conditions, and general service to our needs, when compared to
other SoEast Asian countries which we source. However, should this
resolution be denied, I surely will be forced to cancel my Laos
contracts, as the uncompetitive situation can not be continued any
longer.
Sadly, this would negatively effect both Lao, and my employees, as
well as the 400 retail establishments which sell our Lao made products
to the USA consumers. A no-win situation, but clearly there are no
alternatives, any longer.
I thank you for the opportunity to hear my views, and I urge your
swift action, PRIOR to Jul 1, 2003, and further deliberations will
produce nothing more nor new to this situation. 1997-2003 has been
sufficiently long to pay these premium duty rates, as the political
forces countered each other in this NTR debate, and now is time for
action in the form of approval.
Sincerely,
Leonard J. Widen
V-President Odlo USA
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Organization of Lao Student for Independence and Democracy
40-018 Katowice. Poland
Congressman Philip M. Crane (R-IL),
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of the
Committee on Ways and Means,
Dear Sir,
I feel that by granting Normalized Trade Relations (NTR) Status to
Laos without making NTR subject to pre-conditions on human rights, and
release of political prisoners, will only have the effect of
legitimizing the continuation of the Lao PDR's oppressive powers and
human rights abuses against its citizens. Granting NTR now, along with
its attendant aid and loans, would preclude using this important tool
of U.S. policy vis-a-vis a future government in Laos.
Unfortunately there a number of elected officials who mistakenly
believe that many Lao- and Hmong Americans support giving NTR to Laos
with no [enforceable] pre-conditions on human rights. There are also
native borne Americans and US veterans who oppose NTR. There are a
number of common themes in the debate surrounding the recent surge of
efforts to weaken U.S. policies toward the LPDR. It's said that
granting NTR and disarming freedom fighters would alleviate economic
hardships in Laos, fuel the U.S. economy by tapping into new markets
and, in the end, cause the demise of the LPDR's totalitarian regime.
These arguments don't consider the harsh realities of Laos under the
communist leaders like Khamtay Siphandon and Somsavath Lengsavad.
Giving into the Lao government and granting NTR now without any
preconditions would only serve to strengthen the LPDR's grip on
thelandlocked country and its people.
Supporters of a granting NTR suggest the regime would allow
tourists and investments from the United States to influence Lao
society. That won't happen. The LPDR is not willing to trade total
control of power for an improved economy. We have seen it with North
Korea, Iraq, China, and Cuba. We see the example of China which even
before and after receiving NTR and WTO membership continued its massive
human rights abuses, with the US government fearful of doing anything
to disturb the $40 billion plus trade relationship for business
reasons. Granting NTR and disarming democratic movement groups inside
Laos without meaningful democratic and free-market reforms in Laos
would certainly guarantee the perpetuation of the institutions and
groups that support the regime. The LPDR only wants U.S. credits and
tourism because it desperately needs hard currency to fuel the regime.
U.S. investors would quickly discover that they were operating on
the LPDR's turf. Workers are not permitted to contract with companies.
There is no infrastructure and no accountable banking system. If a
foreign company needs local workers, it must go through the regime,
which then assigns workers and collects their wages in dollars. The
regime then pays its workers in worthless Kip. Translation: Foreign
investment bankrolls the LPDR and leaves the workers destitute. Every
other country in the world is free to trade with Laos and even donated
millions and millions of dollars, which clearly has not helped the
country's economic plight. If the U.S. were to provide credits to the
LPDR regime to buy American goods, the U.S. taxpayer will eventually
foot the bill. The regime does not pay its bills. The LPDR economic
system is a miserable failure that stifles productivity. Yet it
continues to spend recklessly on the military. Allowing the LPDR access
to hard currency will not only strengthen its hold on the Lao people,
but also allow it to build up its military and continue its oppressive
human rights abuses. Repeatedly, Amnesty International has documented
the human rights abuses in Laos. AI receives continual reports of
extremely poor conditions of detention and the use of cruel, inhuman or
degrading treatment. These included the prolonged use of stocks,
deprivation of light, confinement in small cells, and inadequate
provision of food, water and medication. Bear in mind, in Laos today,
even if someone is arrested, the family must know someone in the
outside world and have a way to make the name and details public-which
the Lao PDR promptly denies, and frequently does not inform family or
relatives of the arrest(s) and where they are held. SEE:
http://web.amnesty.org/ai.nsf/countries/
laos?OpenView&Start=1&Count=30&Expandall.
There are 19 website links by AI documenting the Lao government's
oppression and human rights abuses.
No information was made public about protesters arrested in 1999
and 2000, and their whereabouts and fate remained unknown today. These
included five members of the ''Lao Students Movement for Democracy of
26 October 1999'', arrested in October 1999. Thongpaseuth Keuakoun,
Khamphouvieng Sisaath, Seng-Aloun Phengphanh, Bouavanh Chanhmanivong
and Keochay were among a group of people who had attempted to publicly
call for respect for human rights, the release of political prisoners,
a multi-party political system and elections for a new National
Assembly. Sinh Keotha, a woman arrested in connection with the same
demonstration, was believed to have been released, while her brother,
Sinh Sanay, remained in detention. At least 15 people arrested in
November 2000 following a demonstration in Champasak province remained
unaccounted for.
Khamtanh Phousy, a prisoner of conscience detained since 1996,
remained in Prison Camp 7, in a remote area of Houa Phanh province. A
former army officer who converted to Christianity, he was sentenced to
seven years' imprisonment on what were believed to be politically
motivated charges. No information was available about the situation of
two other political risoners believed to be still held in Prison Camp
7. Sing Chanthakoumane and Pangtong Chokbengboun, detained for ''re-
education'' and held without charge or trial since 1975, had been
sentenced to life imprisonment after an unfair trial in 1992.
Prisoners of conscience Feng Sakchittaphong and Latsami Khamphoui,
both aged 61, remained in Prison Camp 7. Both men are former government
officials who were arrested in 1990 after advocating peaceful political
and economic change. In 1992 they were sentenced to 14 years'
imprisonment under national security legislation following an unfair
trial. Conditions of detention were extremely harsh. They continued to
be held in darkness, and to be denied adequate food and medical care.
Visiting rights for their families were severely restricted.
In late 2000, an Australian couple Kerry and Kay Danes, who had
been working in Laos for a security company, were arrested and charged
with theft. The couple were detained in Phonthong prison and since
their release in 2001 have reported suffering torture and ill treatment
at the prison, and of witnessing appalling treatment of other
prisoners. Their case showed that the concern of a government which is
an important aid donor to Laos in this case Australia did not prevent
the torture and ill-treatment of nationals of that country in the Lao
prison system, even with the support of determined consular officials.
Foreign nationals arrested in Laos are vulnerable to serious human
rights abuses. Lao nationals under arrest are even more helpless.
In November 2001, five foreign nationals, including a member of the
European Parliament, were arrested after staging a protest in Vientiane
to commemorate the second anniversary of the attempted demonstration on
26 October 1999. They were tried after two weeks, each given a two-year
suspended sentence for anti-government propaganda, and deported.
Religious persecution. Despite official denials, arrests and
harassment of members of small unauthorized Christian churches
continued. The majority of reported incidents took place in villages in
the provinces. The authorities closed churches and people who refused
to renounce their faith in writing were imprisoned. Although several
Christians previously detained in the provinces of Savannakhet, Luang
Prabang and Attapeu were released, at least 30 remained in prisons
around the country. These included Seuat, Khamthorn and Dam, arrested
in November 2000 and held in Savannakhet City Jail; and Thongchan, Nhot
and See arrested in Oudomsay province in 1999 and sentenced to 15, 12
and 12 years' imprisonment respectively. At least eight new arrests
took place. In some cases people were held for short periods, while
others were serving long sentences. It was reported that people
released from prison were subjected to restrictions on movement by
local authorities. Three Christian pastors were arrested in May in
Bolikhamsai province after their church was closed down because they
refused to sign a document renouncing their faith. Siaye Wang, aged 40
with six children, Tongkhue Wue, aged 43 with five children, and
Yiaprie Wue, aged 31 with six children, were believed to be in poor
health since their arrest because they were held in stocks and not
given adequate food.
In January-February 1973, at the time of OPERATION HOMECOMING when
some 591 American POWs were released by Hanoi, the United States, was
still seeking almost 400 other POW's, MANY who were known to be alive
on the ground in >Laos and in Vietnamese controlled areas of Laos at
the time of their loss, some of whom had even been used by the Pathet
Lao and North Vietnam in propaganda. As of January 2, 2003, the
National League of Families lists 382 American still unaccounted for in
Laos. Why grant Laos NTR, when as of now, some 350 MIA thought to have
been alive in Laos at the time of their loss, and who were not returned
to the U.S. at the time of the January 1973 Operation Homecoming: (1)
might be alive and under the control of the Lao government, or (2) are
dead because the Communist Lao forces killed them. Perhaps you can tell
me which it is, (1) or (2)? Why doesn't the US demand that Laos explain
what happened to those Americans who were alive on the ground at the
time they were lost? Is the US too caught up in saying it gets
excellent cooperation from the LPDR on POW-MIA instead of repeatedly
demanding an accounting of those LKA?
Until the LPDR respects human rights, releases political prisoners
and holds free and internationally supervised elections, AND accounts
for American POWs who were alive on the ground when lost, NTR should
remain closed. To reward the LPDR now is to ensure that Laos' 5.4
million citizens will continue to face the same horrors and hardships
they suffer today--just under a regime bolstered by U.S.
Sincerely yours,
Bounthanh Thammavong
Chairperson
<F-dash>
Pacific Inter-Trading and Consulting Co.
St. Paul, Minnesota 55103
March 28, 2003
The Hornorable Chairman Williams Thomas
and Congressional members of the Ways and Means Committee
2208 Rayburn HOB
Washington, D.C. 20515-0522
Dear Chairman Thomas,
We are writing this letter to support NTR for Laos. A subsidiary of
our company, Services 2000, has been doing business in Laos for a
number of years now, and we feel it is most justified to grant NTR for
Laos at this time.
Laos seems to be the only country remaining in the South East Asian
region that has not yet been granted this trade status, and we feel it
will be imbalance in our justice system while granting NTR for everyone
else except Laos. Furthermore, Laos have been working very hard with
the U.S. and the world community in order to improve the concerned
human rights issues in Laos and others of similarity. Like many
countries around the world, Laos is also in struggle for economic
reforms in order to survive this world crisis and economic depression.
With NTR, Laos can change more and be able to compete better with the
world market systems; thus improving its economy by creating more jobs
and attracting more foreign investment in to Laos which will help
secure a better future for the many generations to come.
We realized that there are still some small groups of people who
view Laos as a dangerous country with horrible human rights and
religious freedom violation. But through our experience working with
the Lao people and constant visits to that country, I must say this is
no longer a true picture of Laos today. Gradually, Laos have changed,
especially during the last few years. I am sure there is still rooms
for improvement for every walks of life but only time can help Laos to
become economic self-sufficient and be in full compliance with the
United Nations standards. Therefore, we should not penalize Laos by
holding back NTR which may be the only tool to help Laos succeed in
those areas. NTR will also enable Laos to gain equal access to
information and same advantage to economic opportunities like other
countries. The United States, being a great country by reaching out to
help small countries such as Laos, can only reflect the true liberty
and justice for all of this great nation once again. Therefore, we
pledge that you would vote ``YES'' to NTR for Laos at the United States
congress. If I can be of further help, please do not hesitate to let me
know.
With the best regards, I remain.
Respectfully yours,
Wayne Saykao
President
<F-dash>
PacMar Inc.
Honolulu, Hawaii 96816
April 11, 2003
Honorable Philip M Crane, Chairman,
Subcommittee on Trade,
Committee on Ways and Means'
House of Representatives,
United States Congress.
Honorable Neil Abercrombie,
Congressman (Hawaii)
House of Representatives,
United States Congress
Dear Congressmen Crane and Abercrombie:
I am a Hawaii-based Laotian American, President and CEO of Pacific
Management Resources (PacMar Inc.), a well-established U.S.
international consulting company providing professional expertise and a
wide range of business development advisory services throughout the
Asia Pacific region for the past two decades.
I am writing in support of the Bush Administration's recommendation
to grant permanent NTR to Laos (Lao People's Demcratic Republic).
For this purpose, I have attached a statement which was jointly
drafted and adopted by key Laotian-American community leaders/
professionals in Hawaii and those across the U.S. Mainland. The said
statement, in my view, reflects very accurately the opinions of the
vast majority of the 4,000 Laotian-Americans in Hawaii, and over half
million other Laotian-Americans across the United States, on this
issue. I respectfully urge your full review of this statement, and
favorable action by your esteemed Committee. The said statement
outlines the socio-political, and humanitarian reasons for granting the
NTR to Laos. I would like to add the following additional economic and
strategic reasons for granting the NTR to Laos:
We support granting the NTR for Laos not only because it reflects
the collective sentiments of the vast majority of the Laotian-American
communities in Hawaii and across the U.S.; but, more importantly,
granting the NTR to Laos will serve the best long-term economic and
strategic interests of the United States of America in the greater
ASEAN region.
Laos is a member of ASEAN. The country is strategically located
right in the heart of the Greater Mekong Sub-Region (GMS), which is
home to over 250 million ethnically diverse populace with some of the
fastest-growing markets and most dynamic economies, including those of
China, Vietnam, Thailand, as well as the newly emerging but fast-
changing economies of Cambodia, and Burma.
Major multi-lateral funding agencies (e.g. the ADB, Worldbank),
bilateral donors, and leading private U.S. and other multi-national
companies are committing massive aid and investment resources into the
GMS. They view the GMS as one large, and increasingly integrated
market, and highly promising new investment ``frontiers,'' of which
Laos is an inseparable part.
Major multi-modal infrastructural networks (new trans-national road
networks, railroads, civil aviation and telecommunication systems) are
being planned and developed at rapid pace for this GMS region, most of
them connecting to and/or traversing various parts of Laos (which
shares common boarders with all other five GMS nations).
Laos--being richly endowed with diverse forestry/mineral resources,
and vast exportable hydro-power potential--is poised to be one of the
key ``hubs'' for cross-boarder trade, and economic exchanges, and
lucrative market links among the six GMS nations. The U.S. is currently
among the leading economic ``stakeholders'' in the GMS. Continued
refusal to grant NTR to Laos is detrimental to the current and long-
term U.S. national interest in this dynamic and fast-growing region.
The significance of Laos to the U.S. regional economic and security
interests must be viewed in this broader ASEAN and GMS context. It is
in the light of these broader U.S.-ASEAN regional economic and security
interests that I urge your esteemed Committee to recommend the granting
of the much overdue US-NTR to Laos.
Sincerely yours,
Puongpun Sananikone
President and CEO, PacMar Inc.
______
Attachment:
Statement of Support From Laotian-Americans in Hawaii
For The Bush Administration's Trade Initiative
To extend Normal Trade Relations to Laos
We, Laotian-Americans in Hawaii, believe that:
Widespread and rapidly growing unemployment among youth in Laos has
driven tens of thousands of them to flee to Thailand and other
neighboring countries where they fall prey to exploitative and inhumane
treatment by their employers and criminals; while the land-locked
Laotian economy continues to weaken due to decline in foreign
investment and its weak capability to compete with its neighbors in the
export markets. The situation is further aggravated by the continued
denial of US NTR to Laos while such privilege is enjoyed by its
stronger immediate neighbors, including Vietnam and Cambodia.
US NTR for Laos is not a panacea for its social economic problems,
but it will put Laos on a level playing field with its neighboring
countries on which to compete for a share of the U.S. markets. This in
turn will stimulate domestic and foreign investment in Laos and give
the country a fair chance to provide decent jobs for its youth and
thereby help reverse the current ill treatment and suffering they have
had to endure, both in Laos and in neighboring countries.
We realize that Laotian communities across the U.S. are not
unanimous in their views about the current Laotian Government and its
policies, and that the majority of Laotian Americans still wish to see
more political reforms and changes. But we believe that a stronger
Laotian economy will improve living conditions of the Laotian people
who, in turn, will then become real stakeholders and, eventually
catalysts for change. Experience in Asia has amply demonstrated that
the democratization process has been economically driven.
While understanding and respecting the views of those opposing the
granting of US NTR for Laos, we ask that they also understand and
respect our views and positions on this important matter. As American
citizens, we have the obligation to respect each other's rights and
freedom to express our views in accordance with our belief and
conscience.
The majority of Laotian Americans have reconnected with their
homeland. Most of them have returned to Laos for visits and have
relatives who are still there and wish to see that they be given a fair
chance for a better living. Most Laotian Americans believe that
promoting economic development is the best way to promote peaceful and
sustainable change in Laos.
We wholeheartedly applaud and share the position taken by the Bush
Administration on the issue of US NTR for Laos. Ambassador Hartwick is
trying to encourage discussion and favorable consideration of this
initiative.
Laotian Americans and friends of the Laotians who share our views
should exercise their right of freedom of speech by voicing their views
to their respective Congressional representatives, especially members
of the House Ways and Means Committee.
The opposition to the US NTR to date seeks to isolate and
impoverish Laos for their own ambiguous political agenda. They have
organized and financed aggressive lobby efforts to prevent hearings on
this matter. Some of them continue to believe that poverty will force
change in Laos. Recent history in Asia shows otherwise. People in
isolated and poor North Korea have no means to ask for change, they
starve in silence; while in relatively rich South Korea and other parts
of Asia (Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, Philippines etc.) growing
affluence of the peoples have created economically strong and well
educated middle class who in turn have proven to be the real incubators
and guardians of the growing democratization process.
A constructive engagement approach is a better alternative for the
U.S. to promote change in Laos; and that promoting change through
peaceful socio-economic development is far more effective and humane
than deliberate impoverishment of our fellow Laotians in Laos. The
granting of NTR to Laos will open up U.S. market to tens of thousands
of Laotian entrepreneurs and workers. This will ultimately lead to
greater economic empowerment of Laotians, making them stakeholders in
their own society and, thereby, creating genuine impetus towards
democratization and the rule of law.
For more information and assistance, please contact:
The US-Lao NTR Coalition
120 Broadway, Suite 4
Richmond, CA 94804
(510) 235-5005, (510) 235-5065
Website: Laotianlink.com
Email: Laotianlink@USA.com
Hawaii Contact:
Email: puongpun@pacmarinc.com
telephone: 808-7352602,7328731
fax: 808-7342315
Mail: 3615 Harding Avenue, Suites 408-409, Honolulu, Hi 96816
<F-dash>
Redmond, Washington 98052
April 20, 2003
Congressman Philip M. Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Fax 202/225-2610
Dear Congressman Crane:
I lived in the country of Laos as a young American girl in 1962 at
the age of 9 because of my father's job with USAID. I have made two
return trips to Laos, in 1993 and 1996, and have re-established a
strong and heartfelt bond with the land and the people of that country.
I am writing to you today to ask that you and the U.S. Congress
support the normalization of trade relations with the Lao PDR. I have a
particular interest and passion for the handwoven textiles that are
made by the weavers in Laos. I have visited workshops where these
ancient skills are being passed on to poor, uneducated young girls from
the countryside. Income from sales of these beautiful textiles offers a
means of supporting a family, as well as preserving a venerable and
valuable cultural heritage. The Lao weavers would benefit tremendously
from improved and eased access to the highly important U.S. market.
This is only one example from one small segment of the Lao economy.
The Lao people have suffered enough. They have already paid heavily
with the loss to war of so many in an older generation; the loss of so
many educated people who fled as refugees; the loss of hands, feet, and
limbs to the unexploded ordnance we left behind in the '60s and '70s.
It is time to put the MIA issue behind us in favor fulfilling our
obligation, rooted in history, of opening opportunities to a better
life for today's people of Laos.
Sincerely yours,
Nancy L. Penrose
Writer/editor
CC:
Representative Jennifer Dunn
Representative Jim McDermott
<F-dash>
Washington, D.C. 20001
April 12, 2003
Congressman Philip M. Crane
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Fax 202/225-2610
Dear Congressman Crane:
As a daughter of a Lao textile weaver, I know how valuable it is to
have craft skills in Laos during hard times because I have experienced
and seen first hand that such skills can help one feed one's family.
Since 1995, I visited Laos numerous times and I saw many Laotians,
especially weavers, who were eager to work and sell their products.
However, the morning market was the only market where they can sell
their products for a small price to sympathetic tourists. As an
American, I cannot turn a blind eye and ignore that these people have
not suffered enough. This is why I am writing you to ask that you and
the Congress grant Laos normalized trade relations (NTR). By granting
Laos NTR, we are giving the Laotians a chance to rebuild their country.
With the crisis that is going on around the world, granting Laos NTR is
one of the many ways that we Americans, which we take pride in, can
give dignity and pride back to the people of Laos. In return, they will
look upon the United States as friends. If Laos is granted NTR, we are
giving its people an opportunity to become productive citizens.
Sincerely yours,
Thiphasone Phimviengkham
Radio Production Engineer
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Washington, DC 20008
April 9, 2003
The Honorable Philip M. Crane,
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade,
Ways and Means Committee
United States Representatives
Honorable Crane,
On behalf of the Government and the people of Laos, I would like to
express my sincere thank and appreciation for being given the
opportunity to submit comments to the US House Ways and Means
Subcommittee on Trade regarding the extension of the Normal Trade
Relations status to Laos. We applaud the efforts of the United States
to actively engage the relationship with Laos on a political and trade
related basis.
Laos and the US had initialed the Bilateral Trade Agreement in
1997, and the document has not been yet approved. In the past few years
the Lao Government and its people in collaboration with the US
Administration as well as the Lao-American living in the United States,
have worked hard in order to push forward and bring into force the
comprehensive bilateral trade agreement between the United States and
Laos.
We are gratified that our country was included in the President's
International Trade Agenda. On February 24, 2003, Honorable Colin
Powell, Secretary of State, and Honorable Robert Zoellick, United
States Trade Representative, sent a joint letter to the Congress
proposing the Congress to pass the bilateral trade agreement between
our two countries. I very much appreciate and welcome the decision made
by the United States Administration in support for granting the NTR
status to Laos.
Laos is one of the ASEAN members, and has struggled many years
remaining one of the world poorest nations, but a nation that is proud
of its accomplishments and its plans for further achievements in the
near future.
You may wish to take into consideration some points regarding the
developments in Laos as well as the Lao-US relations.
1.
Developments in Laos:
Reform:
--Laos started the reform of its economic system since 1986 by
adopting the New Economic Mechanism shifting from a centrally planned
economy to a market-oriented economy.
Open-door:
--It has carried out an open-door policy toward international
cooperation by enacting law on foreign investments since 1988. Laos has
been a member of the UN and all other affiliate organizations as well
as the IMF and World Bank. Laos joined ASEAN in 1997 in order to go
along with the group for the promotion of regional economic
cooperation, and trade as well as for the preservation of peace,
stability and security in the region of Southeast Asia.
Rule of Law:
--It adopted the first Constitution in 1991 aiming at governing the
country by the rule of law. Since then more than forty laws have been
enacted for governing and regulating the economic, financial,
administrative, social and cultural activities of the country.
2.
Lao-US Relations:
Diplomatic relations:
--Despite a political change in Laos in 1975, the Lao-US diplomatic
relations established since 1952 has never been interrupted.
Cooperation on MIA:
--In recent years, the United States and Laos have worked very hard
to build a mutually beneficial relationship and understanding. The
Government of the Lao PDR and its people have shown their goodwill and
sincerity in humanitarian cooperation with the US Government,
particularly, in the field of POW/MIA issues. As a result, to date 179
remains of MIA have been identified and repatriated to the United
States. The Defense Prisoner of War/Missing Personnel Office,
Department of Defense, and the National League of POW/MIA Families can
be witness on this matter.
--The UXO clearing projects and the rural development in order to
reduce the poverty going on very well.
Cooperation on narcotic drug control:
--The Lao-US cooperation in the field of narcotic drug control,
which is the common concern for both governments, is also gradually
expanding, and making the production of opium reduce year by year. The
aim is to finish off this kind of narcotic drug in 2006.
Cooperation on counter terrorism:
--The Lao government condemned the terrorist attack on the United
States on September 11, 2001. In his message sent to President George
W. Bush, on September 12, 2001, President Khamtai Siphandone, of the
Lao PDR, reaffirmed his support to the international communities,
especially the United States to fight against international terrorism.
--The Lao government has actively protected the American people,
their interests and properties inside the Lao PDR.
Investment:
--Currently, the US investments in the country have amounted to US$
1,5 billion, which ranks the United States as the second largest
foreign investor in the Lao PDR after Thailand.
Trade:
--At present, Laos faces a tariff rate over 45 percent. In actual
dollar terms, Lao businesses paid US$ 1.8 million to the U.S Customs
Services in order to sell US$ 3.9 million worth of goods in 2002. This
tariff rate is the highest in the world.
--Granting NTR status to Laos would enable the country to develop
its economy in a better fashion and help to expand the trade and
investment in the country and strengthen the process of reform and
liberalization already taking place. Importantly, it will contribute to
eradicate the poverty and to improve the living standard of the people
in the country.
--As mentioned earlier, Laos is one of the ASEAN members. Hence,
granting of NTR to Laos would signal the United States' continuing
interest in the ASEAN nations, and will fulfill the Trade policy of
Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative (EAI), announced by President George W.
Bush last year in Mexico.
As the United States is the foremost advocate of free trade, I do
hope that it should treat Laos with the same trading privileges it
granted to most of other nations in the world, especially to most of
ASEAN countries. I really hope that when the economy of the country
becomes strong and more integrated with its regional neighbors, Laos
then will provide a strong market for the US goods, and increase trade.
Our economic reform and success will contribute to the
strengthening of the economy in the region. The action of granting
unconditional normal trade relations status to Laos will send a message
to the people of Laos that the United States supports them in their
endeavors to become a strong nation. It will put Laos on an even
playing field with the rest of the world vis-`-vis trade with the
United States. The active engagement of the Lao PDR will encourage the
move toward a market-oriented economy.
We believe that Laos is on the right path. We also believe that the
United States should treat Laos with the same trading privileges it
grants to most of other nations, especially the other ASEAN members.
On behalf of the Lao government and its people, I would like to
encourage the U.S Congress to expeditiously seek the granting of
unconditional normal trade relations status to Laos.
Sincerely yours,
His Excellency Phanthong Phommahaxay
Ambassador
Embassy of the LaoPeople's Democratic Republic
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
PhonTong Handicrafts Cooperative
Vientiane, Laos
April 7, 2003
hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
cc: laontr@ffrd.org (please forward & FAX to appropriate offices!)
Dear Committee,
On behalf of PhonTong Handicrafts Cooperative in Vientiane, Laos, I
am writing to ask you to approve the bilateral trade agreement signed
by the United States and Laos in 1997. The agreement was submitted to
Congress by President Bush as part of his trade agenda this year. I
have been living & working in Laos for the past 20 months.
The lack of normal trade relations with Laos hurts people in both
countries, including the needy artisans from PhonTong Handicrafts and
our buyer, a non-profit organization, Ten Thousand Villages, in USA.
TTV has been buying products from our Lao artisans, such as wood-
carvings, baskets, and handwoven silk scarves and table runners, since
the mid-80's.
After the Vietnam War, the US government imposed sanctions,
including heavy tariffs on Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. In recent
years, the sanctions on both Vietnam and Cambodia have been removed,
and those countries now enjoy ``normal trade relations'' (NTR) with the
United States.
Laos, however, continues to face the highest effective tariff rates
in the world--an average of 45 percent last year. Combined with Laos'
landlocked status, the high tariff rates make it nearly impossible to
turn a profit on goods imported from Laos. Ten Thousand Villages sells
Lao products, but must subsidize them.
A bilateral trade agreement, signed by the United States and Laos
in 1997, would reduce these high tariff rates and grant Laos NTR
status. More than a quarter century after the end of the Vietnam War,
it is time to show a gesture of reconciliation to our brothers and
sisters in Laos. The Lao people suffered greatly during the war,
enduring more bombs than the US dropped on both Germany and Japan
during WW II. Giving them an equal chance for economic development is
the least we can do!
There are 200 fair trade stores across the US that primarily sell
Ten Thousand Villages products. Many of these stores have expressed
their appreciation of Laotian handicrafts and would benefit from
selling Lao products.
Laos is one of a handful of countries which enjoy diplomatic
relations with the United States, but still lack normal trade
relations. Please work to grant normal trade relations and the
implementation of the trade agreement as soon as possible!
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter!
Sincerely,
Kirsten Baynham
MCC LAOS Handicraft Designer for Ten Thousand Villages, USA
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Phontong-CAMA Handicraft Cooperative
Vientiane, Lao PDR
April 21, 2003
To: LThe Committee on Ways and Means, Subcommittee on Trade
Re: LRequest for the reduction of taxes on crafts made in the Lao PDR
and exported to America.
I, Mrs. Kommaly Chanthavong, am the director of CAMA Crafts--
Phontong Cooperative and Lao Sericulture Company. I, together with the
company management teams of the Cooperative and Lao Sericulture
Company, have worked closely with impoverished in the countryside, far
from cities and civilization.
The Main Work of we are assisting villagers with:
1. Growing mulberry trees, caring for silkworms, and spinnning high-
quality silk thread.
2. Growing plants from which natural dyes can be made.
3. Weaving silk cloth to be made into various articles.
4. Weaving baskets.
5. Making wood carvings.
6. Sewing and embroidering Hmong folk art.
7. Training 500 farming families throughout all 12 provinces to grow &
care for silk works.
8. Train in weaving and natural dye techniques.
Continuing objectives for working villagers:
1. Provide villagers with jobs and income for daily needs.
2. To encourage slash--and--burn farmers and opium farmers to
manufacture silk and crafts instead.
<bullet> LCurrently manufacturers number 60 villagers in 5
provinces, marking 500--1000 products per month. The project's duty is
to encourage manufacturing and to find a market for the villagers'
work, in order to continuously recover the capital funds.
<bullet> LSince 1990 until the present, the domestic and foreign
markets have worked in cooperation with 10,000 villages The program of
MCC in the USA.
<bullet> LThe difficulty in sending our crafts to the USA is the
import duty, causing us to lose 70--80 % and to sell very few products.
<bullet> LThe usefulness of lessening the import tax for Laos would
surely increase the profits to the Lao farmers. We would have the
ability to sell more crafts than previously, to have greater income to
cover daily needs, and reduce, the number of people selling narcotics,
growing opium, of people selling narcotics, growing opium, and
destroying the surrounding forests through slash--and--burn
agriculture.
For these reasons, we respectfully bring this request to the
Committee on Ways and Means, asking that you lower the American import
tax on various handicrafts. We hope that you will consider our problem
and arrive at an appropriate and timely solution.
Mrs. Kommaly Chanthavong
Director Phontong-CAMA Handicraft Cooperative
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Hinchinbrook, NSW 2168
Australia
The Honorable William M. Thomas
Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means, House of Representatives
1102 Longwoth House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Sir,
As a Lao expatriate in Australia since 1986 and former Director of
Economic Planning in Charge of Economic Cooperation in the Ministry of
Planning and Cooperation of the Royal Lao Government, I would like to
express my views regarding the NRT to the Lao PDR.
Laos has been suffering painful domination from aggressive
neighbours and foreign colonisation since the last two centuries. From
1950, Laos has experienced the first and the second Indochina wars that
have uprooted Laos' social and infrastructure development. The Unwanted
wars or the Hidden war engaged by the US against the Pathet Lao and
North Vietnam have left dreadful scars to be rehabilitated. The Lao PDR
government has appealed to the international community, including the
US to grant their precious supports for post war rehabilitation.
After the war in 1975, Laos had no opportunity to unite the
country as a whole, instead it was left to the winning faction, the
Pathet Lao to be master of the country. For 10 years (1975-1985) Laos
relied mostly on the Soviet Bloc for reconstruction but as the Soviet
Union collapsed, Laos had to depend again on capitalist countries and
the international financial institutions. Laos took time because it has
never been able to develop itself economically during the 50s, 60s and
earlier 70s with US assisatnce.
Lao economy was affected by the Asian financial crisis in July
1997. Since the last two years, it is partly recovered and foreign
investment has increased substantially. In terms of physical
communication, roads within the country have been extended to almost
capital cities and trade relations with Vietnam, China, Thailand are
easier than 10 years ago thanks to the loans of the World Bank, the
IMF, the ADB and the assistance from some western countries.
Landlocked Laos will play a regional role as land-link. Lao people
would be able to enjoy the facilities of internal communication and
access to neighboiuring countries for trade and tourism. Lao PDR
government is embarking actively on post war reconstruction to
alleviate poverty. The damages caused by the US bombings were enormous.
Lao people have to excavate and detonate the unexploded bombs to turn
the affected areas into the rice-fields. The US have contributed a
certain amount of money to UXO (Unexploded Ordnance Agency) for
training but in my opinion the US should do more for humanitarian
purposes to support the project. Every year more than 200 children and
women are perished from the unexploded bombs.
The Lao people are cooperating with MIA research team to find
remains of US soldiers missing during the war. They are gentle, helpful
and generous people by nature. The generosity of the Congress to grant
NRT to the Lao PDR would no more than benefit the majority of the poor
and disadvantaged Lao people to enjoy trade exchange with the United
States of America, the ASEAN countries and the rest of the world.
Lao PDR is the stage of dressing the wounds of the long and
unwanted wars. If the US Congress authorizes NTR between the USA and
the Lao PDR, it will not strangle the ailing Lao economy and Laos would
be less dependent on its aggressive neighbours.
I sincerely hope that the US Congress would appose its stamp
positively.
Respectfully,
Viliam Phraxayavong
<F-dash>
Denver, Colorado 80239
March 27, 2003
Ambassador Hartwick
Subject: Granting Laos Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR)
As a citizen of the United States of American through natural
legalization and a register voter here in Colorado, I would like to
express my gratitude and say thank you to you, and the committee on the
ways and means subcommittee on trade for allowing us to voice our
opinions and share our views freely on the issue of granting Laos
Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR).
I have to admit and be totally honest with the fact that I am not
very enthusiastic about granting Laos PNTR due to the concern of human
right issues and other basic democratic rights, and the authoritarian
regime currently established in Laos and the oppression it uses against
it's own people. Having said that, on the contrary I feel that the U.S.
relationship with the country of Laos has not been very effective nor
beneficial to either Nations especially through such a critical time
and climatic substances that's escalating in our world politics.
Granted, the U.S. does not need Laos, but having another country as
friend who one day might share the democratic political ideology and
become an ally to the common threat of terrorism. Having a trust worthy
ally to fight global terrorists and it's activities might not be such a
bad idea, don't you think? Laos as you know has been oppressed and its
people have been at a disadvantage for an extensive period of time.
Internal instability, colonialism, and authoritarian regime pretty much
has been the sad history of Laos, a very small land lock country
compliable to the size of the state of Idaho with the population of
less than 6 million people, which you probably already aware of and not
need me to go into greater length and waste more of your valuable time.
The Laos government, I believe have hit the wall and have been down
on the wrong path for such a long time now has finally realized what it
has to do in order to bring itself up to the standard of other
developed Asian countries. I hope Laos now realizes that it has to be
independent of other countries influences, and take control of it's
national interest for the sake of it's own people and culture.
Singapore for instance, should be used as an example for Laos to follow
because it has proven itself and it is well known and recognized
throughout the world for it's political stability and economic success.
Three years ago, I have traveled to Laos and have seen the unlimited
potential and possibility of Laos striving to become a successful
countries like Singapore if given the NTR as a mean to jump start it's
economic progress to prosperity. The untapped natural resources in Laos
are still untouched and thus the possibility and competition of other
country like Australia, China, Thailand and Vietnam investing in Laos
has already started. If the U.S. does not form a relation with Laos,
and approve the NTR relations then who knows what opportunities it
might be missing out on. Potential Ally to combat terrorists treats to
democracy, economic opportunities and investments, the fight over
drugs, and over all promoting democracy to the people of Laos and Hmong
who once helped the United States and CIA Special Forces fought against
communism during the Vietnam War.
Over all, I feel that by allowing Laos to have NTR relations with
America it will be beneficial to both Laos and America in term of
economic opportunity and promotion of democracy. The people and
government of Laos wants changes and are tired of being treated by it's
neighboring countries as a puppet, and above all looked down upon as a
country with little hope of success in developing it's own Nation. The
U.S. can not allow the continuation of isolating and blocking out Laos
economic development because of a few bad apples, which doesn't
necessarily mean the whole basket is just as bad. Through stronger
economic relations, I strongly believe we can better promote the idea
of democracy, and bring the ideology of communism and such
authoritarian regime to an end in Laos, and allow the people of Laos to
enjoy what I have enjoyed here in this great country of ours (the
United States of America). Communism does not work and with the
collapse of the Soviet Union clearly prove my case. China and Vietnam
wants to change and Laos is slowly awakening and following it
neighbors, and thus by joining the ASEAN organization, it looks like
Laos is committed and wants change to develop, and thus the NTR is a
good starting platform for Laos. I'm just one voice who asking for your
approval to please grant Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) to
Laos. I know your decision will help the people of Laos more then you
will ever realized. If NTR has been granted to China and Vietnam then
why not Laos? By far, China's human right issues are more complicated
then Laos. I am writing on behalf of the innocent people of Laos and
businesses, and not in supporting of the Lao government. Through
economic success and growth, I believe changes in Laos' political
regime will eventually become a reality for the millions of Lao people
who have been oppressed and deprived from their freedom for such a long
time now.
Sincerely yours,
Tom Pong
<F-dash>
De Kalb, Illinois 60115
21 April 2003
Ways and Means Committee
United States House of Representatives
Washington, D.C.
Ref: NTR Status for Laos
Dear Chair and Members:
I would like to add my voice to that of Secretary of State Colin
Powell and of United States Trade Representative Robert Zoellick in
their letter of 23 February 2003 recommending that legislation be
enacted to permanently strike Laos from General Note 3(b), thus
extending NTR status to that country and thereby normalizing trade
relations.
For most of the period 1995-2002, I resided in Vientiane with my
family, employed as a freelance environmental consultant and as Team
Leader of the Digital Conservation Facility Laos: a graphics design and
software development company. This is an ongoing activity and I was
back again in Laos from December 2002 through March 2003 completing our
most recent project, the installation of trilingual interpretive panels
at the Vat Sisaket museum. This work was funded primarily by the
embassies of the France and the U.S., and was executed in cooperation
with the Lao PDR Ministries of Education and of Information and
Culture.
Over these years I have traveled widely throughout Laos as well as
several neighboring countries, and before that I was an academic
researcher in Viet Nam. I also am a decorated veteran of the VN war,
and would hardly considerer myself naive about human rights issues in
Southeast Asia.
With all due respect for those outspoken opponents of trade
normalization within the Lao-American community, I would point out that
foreigners in Laos are essentially unrestricted in their movements and
in their contacts with ordinary people. While onerous limitations on
freedom of expression and assembly are certainly still in effect, it is
outside my considerable experience there that the Lao PDR government is
an oppressive Stalinist regime on the order of its severest critics
claims. There can be no question but that political liberalization
within the context of a general cultural opening has occurred in Laos
within the last five years and with no obvious signs of slowing or
reversal. The Internet is now widely and inexpensively available to Lao
people, and there is little firewalling or user-monitoring comparable
to the situations in Viet Nam and China.
In our museological work in Laos, we perceive a recent radical
lessening of the ideological constraints on the discussion of
historical events and religion, and on the traditional role of the
former Lao kingdoms as protectors and patrons of Buddhism. In outlying
provinces there may be some restrictions on Christian proselytization,
as claimed, but there's no sense of that in Vientiane where the
churches are evidently full, vibrant and confident.
The question of security, however, is certainly loaded when the
lines between the legitimate demands for minority autonomy; the relicts
of the defunct American-sponsored ``secret war''; the traditional
cultivation and use of opium; international drug trafficking; and the
rankest banditry are as shadowy and ill-defined as they are still in
Laos. Just this morning I received an unconfirmed report that another
ambush took place yesterday along Highway 13 North, at the cost of some
thirty lives--no doubt unsuspecting, non-combatant travelers, as were
the victims of the last such massacre not far from there only a few
months ago. Where, if anywhere in Laos, has legitimate law-enforcement
become excessive to the point of ``communist genocide''? I would second
the U.S. Embassy's judgement that no evidence exists of chemical or
biological attacks against uplands dissidents, or even of the Lao
military's resort to disproportionate violence.
Let me close with Robert Kaplan quoting Samuel Huntington, from
Looking the World in the Eye, in The Atlantic Monthly, Dec 2001:
``The United States, Huntington said, has trouble understanding
revolutionary ferment in the rest of the world because it never
experienced a real revolution. Instead it went through a war of
independence--and not even one ``of natives against alien conquerors,''
like that of the Algerians against the French, but one of settlers
against the home country. Real revolutions are different--bad--
Huntington made clear. Fortunately, they are rare. Even as the
proletariat in Third World slums continues to radicalize, the middle
classes become increasingly conservative and more willing to fight for
the existing order. Writing in the late 1960s, Huntington was
describing the world of the early twenty-first century. When a
revolution does occur, continued economic deprivation ``may well be
essential to its success.'' The idea that food shortages and other
hardships caused by economic sanctions will lead to the overthrow of a
revolutionary regime like Saddam Hussein's or Fidel Castro's is
nonsense, in Huntington's view. Material sacrifices, although
intolerable in a normal situation, are proof of ideological commitment
in a revolutionary one: ``Revolutionary governments may be undermined
by affluence; but they are never overthrown by poverty.'' The Spanish
and Canadian developers now building hotels in Havana may know better
than the American government does how to undermine a revolutionary
regime.''
Thank you for all due consideration.
Sincerely,
Alan Potkin, Ph. D.
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
RM Asia (HK) Limited
Vientiane, Lao PDR
18 April 2003
The Honorable Phillip Crane
Chairman, subcommittee on Trade
House Ways and Means Committee
House of Representatives
Washington, DC
USA
Dear Chairman Crane:
On behalf of RM Asia (HK) Limited, Lao Representative Office, I
would like to urge you to move forward with vigor to pass Normal Trade
Relations (NTR) with Laos. Please read on because this is not a boiler-
plate letter.
I am an American citizen and manage the Lao Representative Office
of RM Asia (HK) Ltd., which in spite of its incorporation outside of
the United States, is an American-owned and operated trading company
operating in Laos and other countries of the Greater Mekong region.
We are well aware that NTR with Laos has been strongly endorsed by
the Secretary of Stare Powell and US Trade Representative Zoellick.
Laos NTR is important to our company for the following reasons:
<bullet> LAs a company representing Ford and Ingersoll-Rand, we
believe we will receive tangible benefits and assistance from the Lao
government regarding the supply of US-made Ford motor vehicles and
Ingersoll-Rand heavy equipment into this market.
<bullet> LLaos is a member of the ten country Association of
Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) group--ASEAN is America's third largest
overseas market; our trade with ASEAN contributes nearly 800,000 high
paying US export jobs; and, American companies have tremendous equity
in the region as its top investor. As an American working for an
American trading house representing American firms, I am much more
prone to suggest US sources of equipment, supplies and materials.
<bullet> LPassing NTR for Laos is a key step to building the
foundation for moving forward with the Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative
(EAI) which was announced by President Bush on October 26, 2003 at
AOPEC in Los Cabos, Mexico. Engaging ASEAN through the EAI is an
important step for US Competitiveness in this key market. As you know,
china is moving forward with negotiations for a China-ASEAN Free Trade
Agreement (FTA), and Japan and Europe are also beginning to implement
similar frameworks with ASEAN.
<bullet> LThe Administration and US Embassy in Vientiane report
that Laos is showing signs of moving forward on key areas of past
concern as we enhance engagement with the country. These areas,
including religious freedom, human rights and economic reform are
highlighted in the Administration's letter to you recommending moving
forward on Laos NTR. I can say that I have seen with my own eyes a very
large truck carrying into Laos at one of the official ports-of-entry
hundreds of volumes of books clearly destined to bolster Mormon efforts
in this country.
<bullet> LMy company employ's a senior Lao national whose father (a
senior military official) perished in one of the camps established
after the fall of the previous regime 25 years ago. In spite of this
personal tragedy, he returned to his native land from overseas ten
years ago and has ``turned the page'' and moved forward. He refuses to
fill the role of victim and wants to contribute to making the country
``better'' now rather than turning back the clock. He suffers no
recrimination or discrimination due to his ``history.''
<bullet> LThe fact that this is still a ``Communist'' country plays
into the hands of those urging the withholding of NTR status. However,
on the ground, in the markets, at the business meetings and throughout
the country, the move towards a market-oriented vibrant private sector
is well and truly on the way. Passage of NTR will enhance this process
and move it forward. The dynamics of private sector liberalism will
soon quite naturally have an effect on the political systems in due
course.
<bullet> LMy own personal analysis of American foreign policy over
the past 35 years, suggests to me that the United States has had a far
greater positive political and economic impact by engaging countries
with different political and economic systems than by denying them
access to markets or worse (Cuba is the best example).
<bullet> LThis legislation will allow US companies to have enhanced
protection for trademarks and investment in Laos and ASEAN. This would
be of major importance to the companies we represent.
<bullet> LPassing NTR will assist the 5 million inhabitants of this
small and rugged little country to lift themselves out of poverty more
easily, by permitting entrepreneurs' better access to American markets,
and thereby becoming more competitive.
For all these reasons, I hope that the House Subcommittee on Trade
will move forward with NTR for Laos as soon as possible. This would be
considered a positive step forward for US leadership on trade in Asia,
and particularly in the ASEAN region.
Thank you for your consideration and support. With best regards, I
remain,
Sincerely,
Michael Hamilton
Country Manager
RM Asia (HK) Limited
<F-dash>
Aiea, Hawaii 96701
April 17, 2003
Honorable Philip M. Crane, Chairman,
Subcommittee on Trade,
Committee on Ways and Means
House of Representatives,
United States Congress.
Honorable Neil Abercrombie,
Congressman (Hawaii)
House of Representatives,
United States Congress
Dear Congressmen Crane and Abercrombie:
My name is Pathana Rattanasamay, a Laotian-American community
social worker in Hawaii where I have lived and worked for over two
decades. I currently am the Executive Director of the non-profit
community-based organization, Mutual Assistance Associations Center
(MAAC), which assists immigrants and low-income families to become
self-sufficient.
I am writing in support of the Bush Administration's recommendation
to grant permanent Normal Trade Relations (NTR) to Laos (Lao People's
Democratic Republic).
As a community social worker, I truly believe that NTR will not
only promote socio-economic well-being for the Laotian population in
Laos, but also build a strong and healthy relationship between Laos and
United States in both the short and long term. Moreover, NTR will
provide decent employment, especially for Lao women and youth to
strengthen their family ties and pride.
The current economic situation in Laos forces many women and
children into dangerous and illegal money-making activities, such as
prostitution.
For the above reasons, I urge your esteemed Committee to recommend
the granting NTR to Laos.
Sincerely,
Pathana Rattanasamay, MSW
Executive Director, MAAC
<F-dash>
Potomac Falls, Virginia 20165
April 17, 2003
--Honorable Charles Grassley, Chairman, Committee on Finance, United
States Senate.
--Honorable William M. Thomas, Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means.
--Honorable Philip M. Crane, Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of Ways
and Means committee,
Re: NTR for Laos
Of importance is the U.S. policy applied to Normal Trade Relations.
If it is not applied with justice and logic, then it is punitive rather
than reasonable. Laos meets the criteria for NTR. The Lao Embassy never
closed its doors in Washington, and the U.S. Embassy remained open in
Vientiane. In addition, Laos has agreed to, and supported, U.S. policy
and programs for MIA recovery and Drug Suppression.
The U.S. granted NTR to both Vietnam (2002) and Cambodia (1996).
Laos has not received NTR, and this must be viewed as an anomaly of
U.S. policy. Withholding NTR from one of the world's poorest nations
reflects badly on U.S. policy in the region--and the world.
The argument against NTR for Laos is most often made by a small but
loud group of political exiles from the former regime:
a. Lhuman rights violations,
b. Lpolitical /economic corruption,
c. Llacks a multi-party political system (socialist system), and
d. Llacks a stable monetary and economic infrastructure.
If this same criteria were applied to others who currently enjoy
NTR, the list of NTR nations would shrink considerably.
The war is over. We are at peace. It is time to build for a better
tomorrow. NTR will build better relations and stronger economic ties
between the U.S. and the Lao PDR.
The granting of NTR for Laos is important to the future of U.S.
relations in the region. Laos is one of the ten poorest nations in the
world. It is also a key nation in South East Asia. Laos has been
granted ASEAN status. Laos maintains economic and political relations
with Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and China. Politically, Laos
does play a central role in U.S. relations in the area.
More importantly, NTR opens up the future to the Lao people.
Positive change has occurred over the last fifteen years. I was in Laos
in 1989 and in the years following. I have just again returned from
Laos (Nov 2002). The changes from 1989 to present are phenomenal.
The question for the U.S. must be have the Lao made progress as a
nation? The answer is a resounding yes. Further progress must now
involve economic connection to the world. NTR for Laos will open a new
era of political and economic relations.
If Vietnam, Mongolia, Nepal, and Cambodia can be granted NTR--than
the U.S. must also take that position with Laos. To do so speaks
volumes about who we are as a nation, as a people. It says we have not
rejected those who are under-developed, those who are poor, or those in
need.
Cambodia Before NTR, 1996 = $ 3.7 million in exports to U.S.
After NTR, 1997 = $ 101.7 million in exports to U.S.
Exports to U.S. in 2001: Land-Locked Asian Countries
Laos = $ 3.9 million No NTR
Mongolia = $ 143.4 million NTR
Nepal = $ 200 Million NTR
Conclusion: NTR is critical for land-locked countries.
NTR is a valuable tool in assisting the poorest nations
NTR makes a broad statement on U.S. policy.
In this new era of geo-economic politics, we need to make a clear
declaration to the poorest of the poor. NTR for Laos makes the right
statement about who we are as a nation--who we are as a people.
Thank you for your time and consideration in this matter.
Sincerest regards;
Boune Ome Rattanavong
<F-dash>
New York, New York 10013
To: Representative Charles Crane, Chairman subcommittee on trade of the
Committee on Ways and Means
Email: TO: hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
CC: laontr@ffrd.org
FAX: 202 225-2610
Congressmen:
I am writing to voice my support for Normal Trade Relations (NTR)
with Laos, one of the world's least developed countries. I ask that the
legislature pass the necessary legislation to extend NTR to Laos and
bring into force the bilateral trade agreements concluded in 1997.
NTR will benefit both the US and Laos. Increased trade between our
two countries will lead to greater economic opportunities and swifter
economic development in Laos, directly improving people's lives and
living standards and also reinforcing the alternative economic
development opportunities in anti-narcotics efforts. Greater cultural
and human cooperation will encourage more openness, which I believe
will accelerate the positive changes achieved over the past few years.
Laos is a member of ASEAN, an organization with which the US is
working to strengthen regional stability as part of the ASEAN
Initiative. As such, Laos should have the benefit of NTR as does its
neighbors and fellow ASEAN members. And normalized trade relations with
the US will be a big first step to further integrate Laos into the
world trade system.
On a more personal note, I would like to add that the Lao people
truly deserve the chance to participate in the world economy with their
exquisite talents and handcrafts. My visits to Laos as part of a non-
profit group called Aid to Artisans gave me a chance to see the
wonderful traditions of a people who struggle patiently and steadfastly
to achieve even the most basic steps forward. Bringing Laos into
normalized trade relations would help entrepreneurs and craftspeople
greatly as they seek to earn their livings and enhance and preserve
their country's beautiful traditions.
Thank you.
Keith Recker
<F-dash>
Arlington, Virgina 22209
April 6, 2003
Congressman Philip M. Crane
Re: Extension of Normal Trading Relations Status to Laos
Dear Congressman Crane:
I am writing to express my support for the United States extending
normal trade relations with Laos. Doing so would be beneficial for both
parties involved for a number of reasons. First of all, US businesses
would have the benefit of offering their goods and services to a new
consumer market that possess the money to buy these goods. Also, the
people of Laos would have new job opportunities provided by US
companies seeking to find cheaper sources of labor for their products.
Providing these stable jobs would also help in giving people a viable
alternative to the country's illicit drug market.
Finally, the issue of human rights abuse of the Hmong people is an
important problem that should be address. However, this could be
addressed separately and not affect the prospects of increasing the
chances of creating a thriving economy in Laos. I am hoping that you
will seriously consider supporting normal trade relations with this
country that is in great need of such a policy.
Sincerely,
Jonathan R. Rizalvo
<F-dash>
Robin Stevens Consulting, Ltd.
New York, New York 10025
Dear Representative Crane:
I am writing to voice my support for Normal Trade Relations (NTR)
with Laos, one of the world's least developed countries. I ask that the
Congress pass the necessary legislation to extend NTR to Laos and bring
into force the bilateral trade agreements concluded in 1997.
NTR will benefit both the US and Laos. Increased trade between our
two countries will lead to greater economic opportunities and swifter
economic development in Laos, directly improving people's lives and
living standards and also reinforcing the alternative economic
development opportunities in anti-narcotics efforts. Greater cultural
and human cooperation will encourage more openness, which I believe
will accelerate the positive changes achieved over the past few years.
I visited Laos in 2001 and was warmly welcomed by many people who live
in very poor conditions. I hope that the US will take this step to help
them achieve a better standard of living.
Laos is a member of ASEAN, an organization with which the US is
working to strengthen regional stability as part of the ASEAN
Initiative. As such, Laos should have the benefit of NTR as does its
neighbors and fellow ASEAN members. Also, normalized trade relations
with the US will be a big first step to further integrate Laos into the
world trade system.
Thank you.
Robin C. Stevens
<F-dash>
Washington, DC 20009
April 16, 2003
The Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman
Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Chairman Crane:
I would like to express my strong support for the extension of
normal trade relations (NTR) to Laos.
Like many Americans who lived and worked in Laos in the late 1960s,
I have mixed feelings about the role that the United States played
there. I continue to be proud of what we did to help the Lao develop
their country but pained by the impact of a long war. I am also keenly
aware of how much the Lao people have suffered since 1975--both those
who fled and those who remained. We cannot undo that history, but we
can and must move beyond it.
I continue to maintain the same hopes that motivated my work as a
Foreign Service officer in Laos--that Laos might rise from the ranks of
least-developed nations; that the Lao people might enjoy a higher
standard of living and greater freedom; and that there might be deeper
understanding and broader cooperation between our two countries. I am
convinced that extending NTR status would be a very important step
toward achieving those objectives. The normalization of economic
relationships is long overdue, particularly in light of the fact that
neighboring Cambodia and Vietnam already benefit from NTR status.
I urge you and the Committee to give these proposals serious and
positive consideration.
Sincerely,
Harlan F. Rosacker
My letter to Chairman Crane dated April 16, 2003 is from me as a
private citizen. I am a retired federal employee who served in Laos
between 1967 and 1969.
<F-dash>
Woodside, New York 11377
April 20, 2003
Congressman Philip M. Crane
Chairman, subcommittee on Trade of the Committee on
Ways and Means
Mr. Chairman,
My name is William W. Sage. I am currently a resident of New York
City. For 34 years, I have either worked in Laos or been an observer of
developments in this Southeast Asian country of 5.5 million people.
Since 1998, I have been Adjunct Professor in the Program for Southeast
Asian Studies at Arizona State University. I give annual lectures on
Laos for the Program and have worked with the Program to establish a
greater interest and study of Laos as part of Southeast Asia Program. I
am co-author of Laos: A Bibliography and contributor to the conference
proceedings of New Laos, New Challenges held at Arizona State
University in June 1996. I contribute occasional articles to
``Suvannabhumi, the ASU Program for SEAS newsletter.
I am writing this letter in support of the Admiistratios proposal
to grant Normal Trade Relations with Laos. I believe the time has come
to grant Laos NTR.
My association with Laos began in 1969 when I served an a volunteer
with the International Voluntary Services and then became an employee
of the United States Agency for International Development until 1975
when the country was taken over by the Communist Pathet Lao. I was
among the last Americans to be evacuated from Laos.
Following the Communist takeover of the country, there followed a
massive flight of refugees from the country. I was the administrator of
the US Refugee Program headquartered in Bangkok from 1977 to 1981.
During my four years as director, over 100,000 refugees, the majority
being refugees from Laos were processed by my office for resettlement
to the US. Those refugees who were resettled in the US, fled the regime
for well founded reasons of persecution as well as gross violations of
human rights. It was during this period of time that thousands of
Laotians were rounded up and forced into re-education camps around the
country. Many of those who were kept in the camps were not released for
years while others parished in the camps.
From 1981 until 1983, I worked with Laotians in this country in
their resettlement process. I have worked with many communities around
the US and continue to maintain contact with most of these communities.
In 1983 until 1985 I worked for a US non-profit organization which
was implementing drought relief programs in western India. I returned
to the US in 1985 to begin a 15 year period of assisting refugees
around the world including Africa, Bosnia and Kosovo. In 2000 I retired
from this US non-profit organization to take up an assignment with the
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in New Delhi India where
I worked for the resettlement of Afghan and Burmese refugees.
On September 11, I was asked to administer a recovery program for
the families of the victims of September 11 here in New York City. I
continue to work in the capacity at present.
Because of the Communist takeover in Laos in 1975 until 1994, I
like many other Americans, was not able to visit Laos. I returned for
my first visit in 1994 and have continued to visit Laos each year and
in some years twice a year. My purpose, a personal mission, was to
observe the changes, if any, that were taking place in Laos. I read
everything I could find in reports about the human rights conditions in
the country as well as economic reports published by international
monetary lending institutions financing development projects in Laos. I
also traveled to many parts of the country to personally observe
developments and talked with personnel of the foreign embassies
accredited to Laos, in Vientiane. I am a fluent speak of the Lao
language. My last visit to Laos was March 2002 following the elections
for representatives of the National Assembly.
In my view, Laos has gone from some of the most deplorable human
rights abuses in the late 70's to the end of the 80's to a current era
of improved human rights record. The improved record does not reveal
that the record is perfect but it does reflect considerable improvement
in particularly the last few years. Still, there is some way to go
before the record can be assessed as good. In my view, Laos is no where
as abusive towards its people as the other countries which do not have
NTR, North Korea and Cuba.
A number of reasons have been put forward as to why NTR should be
granted to Laos. I am aware of those reasons but in my view the most
important reason for granting NTR is so that citizens of that country
can market and export their goods, particularly handicrafts, to the US
with out the excessively high import taxes faced by those goods. In my
view, it would be better for citizens of that country to earn income
from the goods they can sell abroad rather than relying upon the
remittances sent by relatives and friends in this country. By some
estimates, as much as 25% of the residents of the capital, Vientiane,
receive remittances from relatives in the US as an annual income. The
2000 census indicates that there are as many as 478,000 Laotians (
ethnic Lao, Hmong and other tribal groups) now in this country. Rather
than remitting millions of dollars to relatives in Laos, it seems to me
that the goods that relatives in Laos can sell abroad to earn an
income, would be a primary reason for granting NTR and thereby reducing
the high import tax.
Laos a moved from a centrally planned economy to a free market
economy. NTR will benefit not only citizens of Laos with their incomes
but will also continue to move the ree market economy forward as we
have seen with its neighbors Cambodia and Viet Nam.
I support granting Laos Normal Trade Relations.
Signed,
William W. Sage
<F-dash>
Washington, D.C. 20001
Congressman Philip M. Crane
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Fax (202) 225-2610
Dear Congressman Crane:
I am a Lao-American who is deeply concerned of the future relations
between the United States and that of Laos. In response to the public
comment period, I am writing you to urge you and the Congress to ratify
the Bilateral Trade Agreement signed between Laos and the United
States, and thus giving Laos normalized trade status along with
Cambodia and Vietnam.
I, like many Lao-Americans, still have family and friends in Laos
who are struggling and would benefit greatly with the opening of trade
between the two countries. Ratifying the Bilateral Trade Agreement will
give our families in Laos a chance for a better life by opening new
markets with little or no duties levied on Lao products and crafts to
the U.S. Also, granting Laos normalized trade relations will only
strengthen U.S.-Laos relations and encourage the rule of law and create
situations conducive to political accountability and transparency. The
benefits of open trade and engagement outweigh any perceived
disadvantages. U.S.-Laos relations is at a crucial junction in history
where you and the Congress are charged with the solemn duty to make the
right choice for the American and the Lao people. I urge that the
Congress make the right decision.
Very truly yours,
Kongphanh Santivong (KP), Esq.
<F-dash>
Arizona 85302
Honorable,
As an American citizen, I wholeheartedly support the joint proposal
of Honorable Colin L. Powell, State Secretary and Honorable Robert B.
Zoellick, US Trade Representative in granting the Permanent Normal
Trade Relations to the Lao People's Democratic Republic. The Lao PDR is
the only country in the area that haven't got such facility yet
although its politico-social situations are far better than others.
I should appreciate if you could take the said proposal and my
noble wish in consideration and render to Laos the fairness and real
touch of the US generosity towards a country that maintaining good
relations and cooperation's with the Unites States.
Once again I thank you very much for your kind cooperation
Sincerely yours,
Kwanchit Sattanak
<F-dash>
Takoma Park, Maryland 20912
27 March 2003
The Honorable
Philip M. Crane, Chairman,
Subcommittee on Trade,
Committee on Ways and Means
House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Chairman:
It is my pleasure and privilege to submit this document to the
Subcommittee on Trade to express my full support for granting the Lao
People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) Permanent Normal Trade Relation
(NTR) Status.
As you are aware, the only action required to grant permanent NTR
status to Laos and to enact the previously negotiated US-Lao PDR 1997
bilateral trade agreement is for Congress to enact legislation amending
the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) to strike Laos permanently from
General Note 3(b). On February 24, 2003, Secretary of State Colin
Powell and United States Trade Representative Robert Zoellick sent a
joint letter to Congress expressing the Administration's support for
extending NTR status to Laos and for bringing into force the 1997
agreement.
Since 1999 I have lived and worked in the Lao PDR, advising the
government on tourism development policy under the auspices of the
United Nation's Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
(UNESCO). During this period, I have witnessed the country slowly but
steadily open up and pursue a policy of cooperation and integration
with regional and world institutions. There has also been a serious
push towards alleviating poverty and raising the standard of living of
the country's multi-ethnic society. As one of the world's least
developed nations, economic hardship and limited human resources have
seriously limited these efforts. Granting the Lao PDR NTR status will
have far reaching implications for poverty alleviation and socio-
economic development, while accelerating the country's integration into
the world economy. Granting NTR can also result in substantial
financial benefits for US citizens, especially for the some 380,000
Americans of Laotian descent. This pool of technical and
entrepreneurial talent is well placed to initiate and sustain US-Lao
trade and investment, supported by Lao government policy that
encourages ``overseas Lao'' to invest in and trade with the country.
Granted, the Lao PDR's market is small at around 5 million consumers,
however, mutually beneficial investment opportunities exist across a
range of sectors such as tourism, manufacturing, agro-forestry and
infrastructure development.
I expect that there will be arguments presented to the Subcommittee
that do not support granting Lao PDR NTR based on the country's human
rights record and form of governance. In my experience working closely
with both the Government and people of the country, I have seen a trend
towards increasing transparency in the political process and a policy
of peaceful reconciliation with the Hmong and other ethnic groups that
sided with the U.S. Government during the Indochina War. Granting NTR
status will be followed by increased international engagement and
liberalization of the Lao economy that is likely to expedite this
process.
In conclusion, I thank you for recognizing this document in support
of granting the Lao People's Democratic Republic Permanent Normal Trade
Relation Status. Doing so will both promote U.S. interests through
engagement and assist the country to improve its economy and raise the
standard of living for its citizens based on U.S.-Lao trade and
investment which has thus far been suppressed by inaction by the
Congress to amend the HTA and strike Lao PDR from General Note 3(b).
Sincerely,
Steven Schipani
<F-dash>
Troy, Michigan 48084
April 21, 2003
The Honorable Phil Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
House Committee on Ways and Means
Hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
Dear Congressman Crane:
I am writing to recommend to the Subcommittee on Trade that Normal
Trade Relations be extended to Laos. Only three countries in the world
do not have normal trade relations with the United States. Laos does
not even fall near the same category in terms of human rights
violations and political differences. It seems to me that extending NTR
to Laos will assist in changing political and security differences in
ways that are consistent with the interests of the United States.
The common people of Laos will benefit from being able to produce
competitive goods and services for the American market. ``For example,
since Cambodia gained NTR Status in 1997, its private sector exports to
the United States have grown from about $6 million worth of natural
resource products to $1.1Billion worth of clothing, furniture and other
products per year. These export sales now employ about 200,000
Cambodians. The same benefits should be given to the people of Laos,
which would raise their standard of living.''
1/31/2003
Http:??www.vientianetimes.com/Stories/w003/02012003^
public^remarks^hartwick.html
Through NTR the people of Laos, who have modest skills today, would
be able to develop skills, which produce high quality silk and other
handicrafts. With lower tariffs they would be able to sell their silk
and build a huge market for their goods. In turn they would be able to
buy products from the United States.
NTR would promote other changes as well. Doing business with
Americans would promote a stronger rule of law: commercial,
environmental, treatment of workers and even human rights. The Lao
government would need to make changes to its system to take advantage
of American markets, which will ultimately result in greater economic
and political freedoms in Laos.
All of these changes will provide an improved climate for the
resolution of the fate of Americans still missing and unaccounted for
in Laos. For example, in my brother's case, refno 1541, his crash site
was identified for excavation in October, 1998. At that time I was told
that it would be seven years before we could expect the excavation to
take place. It is now 4 and = years later and it is still seven years
before we can expect an excavation due to the inability of the Lao to
field larger teams. Perhaps our recognition, through NTR, would
encourage them to move more swiftly to accomplish what they have
already agreed to. In comparison with Vietnam their willingness to work
with the United States has been far greater than in Vietnam, who has
repeatedly agreed to cooperation and still doesn't do what they could
have. Laos has tried to work with us. They deserve the recognition that
NTR brings as a country who is working to join the international arena.
Opening Laos to world markets also opens their people to
understanding differing political options as more businessmen from the
United States travel to Laos. The positive spiral these opportunities
would begin is unlimited in its scope and serves the interests of the
United States.
Thanks for this opportunity to make my ideas known as you consider
Normal Trade Relations with Laos.
Sincerely,
Sue Scott
Sister,
Capt. Douglas D. Ferguson, USAF
Missing: 12/30/69
<F-dash>
Washington, D.C. 20006
April 21, 2003
The Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Mr. Chairman:
I am writing to express my support for granting normal trade
relations (NTR) for Laos, the only country with which we have full
diplomatic relations but not normal trade relations. This is an anomaly
that should be corrected.
Granting NTR will help promote the integration of Laos into the
international economy, and will give the United States the means to
promote a better business climate and develop business opportunities
through the provisions of the bilateral trade agreement. It will help
generate jobs in one of the world's poorest countries, promote
transparency in business practices, and encourage achievement of
international standards in quality. Moreover, it will facilitate
strengthening economic relations with ASEAN as a whole, including
advancing President Bush's innovative ASEAN Enterprise Initiative.
We have had a difficult relationship with Laos for a number of
years, principally on human rights and religious tolerance. However, I
believe that extending NTR will encourage the Government of Laos to
adopt policies consistent with internationally acceptable standards for
human rights and religious tolerance. In addition, extending NTR to
Laos will promote ever better cooperation between our two countries as
we seek to achieve the fullest possible accounting of missing Americans
from the Indochina war and continue our work together to combat
narcotics. Laos has also been supportive of international and regional
efforts to fight international terrorism in the wake of September 11.
I note that both Secretary Powell and Ambassador Zoellick have
expressed full support for the granting of NTR to Laos. I fully concur
with their arguments and hope that the United States Congress will see
fit to grant Laos normal trade relations this session.
Sincerely,
Brent Scowcroft
<F-dash>
St. Davids, Pennsylvania 19087
March 26, 2003
Memorandum
To: Committee on Ways on Means, Subcommittee on Trade
Subject: Laos
The following represents my submission to the House Ways and Means
Committee, together with my strong recommendation that the country of
Laos be given normal trade status with the United States.
I. Personal Credentials:
I have just completed my eighth visit to the country of Laos. My
first came as the head of World Vision, the largest international
relief and development agency in the world. I also conducted a number
of visits to this country as the first U.S. Ambassador-at-large for
International Religious Freedom in the years 1998-2000. I am now the
president of the Institute for Global Engagement, an NGO dedicated
towards creating sustainable environments for religious freedom in some
of the most difficult parts of the world. In the course of these visits
I have relationships developed and nurtured at the grassroots,
throughout the NGO community in Laos, and in the government itself. I
have been on the ground in most of the provinces from north to south. I
have met face-to-face with government officials at the state, province,
district and village levels. I have talked extensively with members of
the indigenous churches in a variety of faith expressions. I have met
with people who have suffered because of their faith. In the summer of
2002, the Institute for Global Engagement sponsored the first high-
level delegation of members of the Lao National Front to the United
States. The invitation was extended through Congressman Joseph Pitts.
This delegation of six individuals spent 15 days in the States, meeting
with all of the relevant government agencies, different Lao-American
groups from all parts of the political spectrum, and, in general, was
exposed to a country that respects religious freedom, viewing this
freedom as one of the core values of our country's history.
II. Updating the Snapshot:
It is very important that you look at information emerging
incrementally from 1999 to the present. In 1999 we were experiencing
forced renunciations of faith, the closing of churches, and the jailing
of a number of individuals. This was somewhat prevalent throughout Laos
but especially true in Savannakhet Province. That situation has
improved immeasurably. The issue of religious freedom has been
intentionally promoted from the outside. Dialogue has taken place with
key government officials, especially members of the Lao National Front.
IGE has worked in tandem with the American Embassy in Vientiane,
supporting one another in an effort to cement this human right in both
governmental structures and personalities throughout Laos. Progress has
been steady. Although that progress has been, and will continue to be,
uneven, there have also been points of dramatic change. I have already
referenced the visit of the Lao National Front to the United States in
the summer of 2002. The following month we witnessed the release of 34
of the 37 known Christians jailed because of their faith throughout
Laos. The impact of this prisoner release cannot be overstated. It is
not always easy to get cooperation from local officials for these
releases. Communication is difficult in a country that suffers because
of a limited infrastructure. The releases came about through a very
intentional move on the part of the government to demonstrate good
faith, to acknowledge the importance of good relationships with people
of faith, and to demonstrate to the international community that this
issue was becoming more important to the Lao government. Given the
major endemic problems within Laos such as a 70% illiteracy rate, 40%
of the population living below the poverty line, and so on, the
attention given to this issue in the past couple of years has been
truly remarkable.
The most difficult province for religious freedom has been
Savannakhet. I have visited this province twice in the last three
years. In February 2003 we were there again, visiting with the governor
as well as various other officials at the district and village level.
Even in Savannakhet, with all of its history of repression, we have
seen positive progress. We have worked hard to cement the notion that
the international community is very much aware of what is happening in
Savannakhet. For the first time I feel we have the attention of the key
government officials there, with some assurance that positive progress
will continue to be realized.
I cannot stress enough the need to see beyond the past, look at the
direction that the Lao government is going, and measure the progress
that has been made in the last few years, all of which projects
legitimate optimism for the future.
III. Visitors To The United States:
During this trip in February 2003, for the first time, I felt that
there was a clear indication that the government of Laos was looking
with intentionality towards the West. Part of what is happening in Laos
today is the increasing number of government officials visiting the
United States. In February, there were four provincial governors in the
States. As mentioned above, we had six members of the Lao National
Front with us last summer. Key government officials have had time to
reflect on the values in America, why we feel the issue of religious
freedom is so important, and how religion, practiced at its best, poses
no threat to any government. These visitors have also had the
opportunity to talk to numerous Lao-American groups. In these
discussions, invariably the knee-jerk hate-mongering that has
characterized some of the stereotypes of the past quickly disappear and
an honest exchange of views takes place. Every one of these
conversations has resulted in a more positive understanding of what is
taking place in Laos today. I think that this critical mass of opinion
that is being generated through these visits has been extremely helpful
to the human rights agenda. Certainly this issue is now more than
politics, and our Lao counterparts increasingly realize that Americans
are passionate about their beliefs, those beliefs are deeply held,
indeed they are imbedded in our historic values.
IV. Major Obstacles Confronting The Lao:
I have mentioned the huge problem with illiteracy in Laos. The
educational system is desperately in need of help. The legal system is
also operating at a rudimentary level. Rule of Law definitely has to be
strengthened, but I found a number of personalities who understand this
and are working hard to build an appropriate legal system. The point
here is that if one were to rank the problems that Laos needs to solve,
from a Laotian point of view, human rights would not be very high on
the list. The fact that this issue is getting more and more attention
today is a tribute to moderates in the government who see the value of
a better human rights record in the context of governmental stability
and international acceptance. In this context, Normal Trade Relations
are absolutely essential. As Laos works on its endemic issue, we cannot
allow the country to fall further behind the curve in a world that is
changing at an exponential rate.
V. An American Response:
We can prevent Laos from slipping further behind on the world
stage. We should encourage the steps that they have already taken,
specifically the very positive progress that we have seen in religious
freedom issues these last few years. Laos very much needs to have a
level playing field with respect to trade. This initiative on our part
will provide them with one. It would also enhance their own initiatives
to reduce poverty and illiteracy in the country. Laos has taken a big
step forward. We have the ability to sustain that step by creating this
economic enhancement for them. In my mind, we have absolutely nothing
to gain by denying this trade status. Indeed, we would only play into
the hands of the hardliners and the benefits that many of them receive
by maintaining the status quo. For all of us working on the issues of
human rights, Normal Trade Relations with the West would be a most
encouraging sign. It is one that we can do. I recommend most strongly
that Laos be granted this trade status.
Ambassador Robert A. Seiple
______
I feel a need to update the facts of my testimony for ntr and laos,
NOT to change my recommendation. I used a situation in the village of
Keng Kok in southern Laos as the basis for a positive testimony. That
situation has now taken a turn for the worse. I can provide details if
desired. The bad news is that the district official in Keng Kok created
additional oppression on the Christians in that village; the good news
is that we were able to get the attention of the central officials,
from the Deputy Prime Minister on down, to intervene. As is often the
case in countries like Laos, ``two steps forward, one step back.''
Again, this is simply to correct the facts. I have never thought that
NTR should be used as either a reward or a punishment but rather as
another arrow in our engagement quiver. For me, NTR is only a point of
leverage ONCE it exists because of the additional access it provides in
dealing with a situation like the one referenced above. I continue to
strongly support NTR for the country of Laos. Please contact me if
there are any questions.
<F-dash>
Brooklyn Park, Minnesota 55445
April 16, 2003
Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman
Subcommittee on Trade
Ways and Means Committee
House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Fax: 202-225-2610
Dear Chairman Crane:
I am writing to voice my support for Normal Trade Relations (NTR)
with Laos. As a Laotian-American I would like to recommend the approval
of the bilateral trade agreement with Laos, which would normalize trade
relations with a country that has been denied fair treatment as a
trading partner due to the legacy of the Vietnam War. I feel strongly
that the trade agreement would be a catalyst for economic development
and social and educational progress in Laos.
I came to the US in 1978 as a refugee. Unfortunately my father, who
worked for the royal Lao government prior to 1975, became a political
prisoner and spent five years in re-education camp. After his release
from re-education camp in 1980, he chose to rebuild his life in Laos,
rather than join us in the United States.
Despite my experiences, I have held a desire to return to Laos for
various reasons: one, the desire to rekindle a relationship with my
father; second, to contribute my personal knowledge and experience to
the development of Laos; and to rediscover and learn about my cultural
and social heritage.
From personal experience, there are many Laotian-Americans, who
like myself who feel strongly about making positive changes and
contributing to the development of Laos.
A positive step in this direction would be for the US government to
sign the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). The BTA is necessary to
enable Laos to participate in the global economy.
I first returned to Laos in 1989. Little has changed since 1975.
Since 1989, Laos has developed at an extremely slow pace compared to
its neighbors, such as Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Much of the
country still lacks basic services such as potable water, electrical
and telephone service, farming irrigation, and paved roads.
The BTA between the United States and Laos is not a panacea to the
economic development of Laos, but it will stimulate hope. Thus I
strongly recommend that the United States establish normalized trade
relations with Laos and begin by signing the BTA with Laos. The BTA
will also promote cultural, social, and educational dialogue and
exchanges between Laos and the US.
Finally, the BTA will encourage Laotian-Americans to participate in
the development of Laos through trade and commercial exchange and
technical assistance.
Thank you,
Narin Sihavong
<F-dash>
Chicago, Illinois 60601
Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman
Subcommittee on Trade
Ways and Means Committee
House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Fax: 202-225-2610
Dear Chairman Crane,
I am writing to voice my support for Normal Trade Relations (NTR)
with Laos. I ask that the legislature pass the necessary legislation to
extend NTR to Laos and bring into force the bilateral trade agreements
concluded in 1997. I believe that the citizens of the United States
(especially Laotian-Americans like myself) and Laos will benefit
greatly from the NTR.
As you may already know, Laos is one of the world's least developed
countries. However, increased trade between our two countries will lead
to greater economic opportunities and swifter economic development in
Laos, directly improving people's lives and living standards and also
reinforcing the alternative economic development opportunities in anti-
narcotics efforts. Furthermore, greater cultural and human cooperation
will encourage more openness, which I believe will accelerate the
positive changes achieved over the past few years.
I am mindful that trade agreements negotiated by the Executive
Branch and approved by Congress are only the first stage of stronger
and more mutually beneficial ties. And I am also well aware that it is
incumbent upon the government of Laos to provide American companies and
their own state and private enterprises with the legal framework and
operational authority they need to pursue successful trade and
investments.
After 1975, the United States and Laos maintained official ties
when relations with Vietnam and Cambodia had been completely severed.
It is time to remove discriminatory tariff barriers and to take this
last major step toward the normalization of relations. I look forward
to working with you to achieve this. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely yours,
Sadachanh Sinantha
<F-dash>
Rogers, Minnesota 55374
To: Honorable Philip M. Crane; Chairman; Subcommittee on Trade of Ways
and Means Committee.
This letter is in strong support of granting normal relation status
(NTR) to the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Laos).
More than twenty years in the U.S, I and many Laotian-American
still have a need for goods and services that used to be part of our
daily lives back in our motherland. These goods, which include arts and
craft, agricultural products and canned food items, are unavailable to
us here in the United States. As a Laotian-American and a small
Business owner, I see this as a promising job and business opportunity.
Granting NTR status to Laos will allow me and others entrepreneurs to
pursue our ideas. Thanks.
Thomas Sisaket
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
SE-11264 Stockholm, Sweden
14 April 2003
To Honorable William Thomas, Chairman
Committee on Ways and Means,
House of Representatives
Washington DC. 20515
Dear Honorable William Thomas,
May I introduce myself. My name is Bounlom Sithammavanh,lao student
in Sweden. I am very glad and honoured to have the opportunity to send
my letter to you. I am aware that the American Congress will pass the
hearings of the agreement on Trade Relations (NTR) between USA and Laos
soon. I am sure that you and your American Congressmen will give this
support to the Laos so that our Government and people could receive the
NTR.
Being back to Lao-American relations in the past time, our two
countries have never cut the diplomatic relations before. Our relation
of friendship and cooperation is normal. The Lao side has given the
good cooperation to the USA,for example, the MIA and drug cooperation
in Laos, but the American side has supported the numbers of projects on
the rural development and human resource development, etc--However,our
both countries must strengthen the bilateral cooperation in the
interest of two countries.
Of course, granting this NTR agreement to Laos will benefit not
only lao people but also it can protect the interests of American
business people working in Laos. Furthermore, the official adoption of
this agreement at the Congress will improve and strengthen the
relations of friendship and economic and trade cooperation between our
two countries. The Lao business people will enjoy the rights to trade
and investment with the Americans. The volum of trade and investment
between our two countries will be increased after the Congress adopt
this agreement.
In addition to this, Lao and American markets will be expanded in
both countries. At the same time the products of our two countries will
be also increased for the interests of our two countries.
Dear William Thomas, Chairman,
I do hope that with the efforts of American Congressmen the Lao
people will get the NTR soon. The positive decision by the Congress
helps my country get rid of the poverty.It will also contribute to
developing and promoting the reform,human rights and democracy.
Faithfully,
Bounlom Sithammavanh
Lao student in Sweden
<F-dash>
Spring Valley, California 91977
April 21, 2003
Honorable Philip M. Crane,
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
of the Committee on Ways and Means,
House of Representatives. USA
E-mail: hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
Honorable Philip M. Crane,
My name is Anourack Soukhaseum, a U.S. citizen living in
California.
I have learned with great satisfaction that a letter jointly signed
by H.E. Mr. Colin Powell, State Secretary, together with H.E. Mr.
Robert Zoellict, US Trade Representative, has been sent to the
Committee on Finance, United States Senate, and to the Committee on
Ways and Means, House of Representatives, to request the approval of an
Agreement between the Lao People's Democratic Republic and the United
States of America on Trade Relations containing a disposition on NTR.
I therefore would like to express my great appreciation and sincere
congratulation to the US Government for its appropriate decision to
support the approval of the bilateral Agreement on Trade Relations.
I understand very well that our countries, the USA and Laos, have
enjoyed a diplomatic relation for more than half a century. Today, we
can observe with pleasure that our bilateral relations are moving on
the right direction, gradually developed and broadened in many fields
including a trade and investment promotion.
In this regard, we would like to point out one important issue
relating directly to the memory and spirit of the Lao and American
people such as the Missing In Action issue which remains a painful and
unforgettable aftermath of the very long and destructive war in our
country. At the present time, we are witnessing a very fruitful co-
operation on this sensitive issue. One Hundred Seventy Nine MIA's
remains have already been returned to the US Government. The last hand
over ceremony was held recently on February 19, 2003 in Vientiane.
I am firmly convinced that the bilateral Agreement on Trade
Relations will not only give advantage to Lao people in Laos and in
USA, but also will contribute to the enhancement of bilateral relations
and the deepening of the people understanding of our two countries.
NTR will serve as a strong incentive for positive change for the
people in Laos in gaining more independence economically from her
neighbors. Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia who are currently benefiting
from NTR are moving forward economically in the right direction. I am
confident that providing similar opportunities, Laos will have similar
results.
I therefore support and strongly request that an Agreement between
the Lao People's Democratic Republic and the United States of America
on Trade Relations be approved by the Senate in the near future.
Sincerely yours,
Anourack Soukhaseum
<F-dash>
Spyder Active Sports
Boulder, CO 80301
April 17, 2003
To: House Committee On Ways And Means
Subcommittee On Subcommittee On Trade
Re: Extension of Permanent Normal Trade relations Status to Laos
To Whom It May Concern:
Spyder Active Sports is one of the leading ski apparel companies in
the world based in Boulder Colorado. We are the exclusive suppliers of
ski racing apparel to the United States Ski Team. We have been doing
business with factories in Laos, and would do considerably more
business there if Laos were granted Normal Trade Relations status. We
strongly support NTR for Laos and feel that it would increase business
opportunities for US companies. We thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
B. Jake Jacobs
Vice President of Merchandising
Spyder Active Sports
Cc: William Houston
<F-dash>
Glendale, California 91206
19 April 2003
Honorable Congressman Phillip M. Crane (R-IL)
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of the committee on Ways and Means
Dear Mr. Crane:
I just want you to know I protest our country giving any financial
aid to the country of Armenia and/or to allow normal trade relations.
Recently Mr. Adam Schiff (D) presented to you and the House and
ways appropriations committee his arguments as to why our country
should give more aid to Armenia.
First of all; Armenia does not support our war on terror, does not
support the war against Iraq, and they are against our relationship we
have with Turkey and Israel.
Mr. Adam schiff has also claimed that Armenia is a strategic
country, a democracy surrounded by hostile neighbors, and that Armenia
has gained their independence from the Soviet Union.
In our city of Glendale, California we have the largest Armenian
immigrant population anywhere in the United States. Everyone in our
city and in any other Armenian community knows. Armenia just a few
years after they obtained there independence from the Soviet Union,
signed an Agreement with Russia to become a federation. Armenia is not
in anyway shape or form an independent country.
Mr. Adam Schiff also contends that Armenia is a democracy. I would
have to say; this is also incorrect. Just recently, Armenian immigrants
that live in the United States, were allowed to vote in the recent
Armenian presidential election. What Armenian immigrants quickly
learned to their dismay. How Armenia is anything but a democracy.
What I believe you should do? Give this money to the families of
our coalition forces. These men and women have actually done something
for our nation, and are the kind of people that made America what it is
today (The Greatest nation on earth).
If that is not an option, give this money to the countries that
formed the coalition. In spite of world opinion, these countries stood
behind America. Whether or not they were able to fight along side
Americans, or could afford to contribute financially etc., they were at
least there for us. Armenia was not and is not, behind America.
Any aid we give to any country should go to the countries that
actually have proven they are our allies. Otherwise our country will
continue to repeat history. Thank you.
Sincerely,
John E. Stevenson
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
S-223 62 Lund, Sweden
15 April 2003
Honorable Philip M. Crane,
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of the Committee
on Ways and Means, House of Representatives
Washington D.C. USA.
I have heard that on the 27 February 2003 Mr. Colin Powell, a State
Secretary of the United States of America and Mr. Robert Zoellick, Head
of US Trade Representatives of White House sent a joint letter to the
Financial Committee, Congress and Subcommittee on Ways and Means, House
of Representatives in order to submit an agreement between the United
States of America and the Lao People's Democratic Republic on trade
Relations (NTR). I appreciate the decision by the US government to
support the agreement.
As you know, among the ASEAN countries the NTR with the USA has not
been granted to the Lao PDR yet, because of misunderstanding the facts
about Laos by individuals and small groups of people in America being
against the NTR granting.
In reality, Laos and USA have had the normal diplomatic relations
for 53 years. The Lao PDR and the USA must make the NTR agreement
materialised to meet the need of cooperation and promotion of trade and
investment between our two countries.
On the Lao-US cooperation, in the Lao PDR there is a very
successful and close cooperation between our two countries on searching
the remains of the American soldiers missing in the Indochina war. Up
to now the Lao government has given 179 cases of the American soldiers
back to the American Government and families. These activities are
carried out successfully and highly appreciated by the number of
Congress and delegations of the United States of America who have
visited Laos. The Lao-US drug cooperation is also implemented
successfully and the opium cultivation in Laos will get rid in the year
of 2005. At the same time, the Lao PDR strongly condemn the attack by
terrorists in America on the 11 September 2001. The Lao Government have
supported their cooperation with the International Community
particularly with the Government of the United States of America to
fight against terrorism.
Laos is a full member of ASEAN and the USA is also their dialogue
partner. The ASEAN-US trade cooperation is increasing and leading to
the opening of free trade market in the two regions. Recently, George
W. Bush, President of the Unites States of America declared that the
USA would support American enterprises for the ASEAN initiatives,
promotion of the investment creating the capacity for American free
trade area with the ASEAN countries.
The Lao PDR who lacks the NTR with USA is an obstacle for ASEAN to
open the ASEAN-US free trade in the future, it makes the USA also live
behind their trade competitors in the region particularly the people's
Republic of China, because China has already set up the China-ASEAN
trade area. If the USA delays the granting of NTR to Laos the USA will
miss the opportunity to cooperate with Laos in trade and investment.
Granting the NTR to Lao Government will promote the number of trade
and investment of the USA in the Lao PDR. The USA is a second largest
foreign investor in Laos. This step will contribute to promoting the
reform, market economic mechanism, particularly promoting
administration of laws, human rights and democracy.
The granting NTR will help Laos open the domestic market for the US
products and services. It will also protect the intellectual property
rights of the US.
This step will help Laos reduce the poverty and the USA must give
the priority to Lao PDR, because Laos is a peace-loving country who has
no any conflict with its neighbouring countries. The Laos people are
hospitable and friendly and Laos is an attractive place for tourism.
So, Laos and their people must receive the NTR. It will bring the
benefit not only to the Lao people in the country but also to a hundred
thousand of those lao Americans who are expecting the promotion of
trade and investment with their own country.
Hopefully, the United States of America as a superpower country
must be optimistic by taking positively the NTR issues into
consideration.
Faithfully,
Damrong Tayanin
Ph.D.,
Research Assistant.
<F-dash>
Ten Thousand Villages
Akron, Pennsylvania 17501
April 16, 2003
Fax to:
Hearing Clerk
House Ways and Means
202-225-2610
Chairman Philip Crane
House Subcommittee on Trade
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Chairman Crane,
On behalf of Ten Thousand Villages, a fair-trade organization that
sells handicrafts from Laos, I am writing to ask you to approve the
bilateral trade agreement signed by the United States and Laos in 1998.
The agreement was submitted to Congress by President Bush as part of
his trade agenda this year.
The lack of normal trade relations (NTR) with Laos hurts people in
both countries, including Ten Thousand Villages and the artisans from
Phontong Handicrafts, the cooperative we have been buying from for the
past 20 years.
Laos is at a serious disadvantage surrounded by Thailand, Vietnam,
and Cambodia, all of whom have NTR. With tariffs up to 90 percent on
some of the goods we import and an additional 60-80 percent in freight
costs due to Laos being a landlocked country, we are limited in what we
are able to purchase from Laos. If we were to take a direct mark-up
according to costs as any normal for-profit business would do, these
products would be overpriced for our markets and we would not be
trading with Laos.
As a non-profit organization, Ten Thousand Villages is a business
with a mission, helping to create jobs in places like Laos, where there
are many skilled artisans that desperately need income-making
opportunities. By applying mark-ups based on average costs we are able
to keep prices for Lao products competitive, and successfully market
some of them.
However, this is only possible because our purchases from Laos are
currently such a small percentage of our total purchases, about.5
percent (compared to 23 percent from India, our largest supplier). The
approval of normal trade relations and subsequent reduction of our
importing costs would allow us to increase our purchases from Laos.
There are 200 fair trade stores across the United States that
primarily sell Ten Thousand Villages products. Many of these stores
have expressed their appreciation of Laotian handicrafts and would
benefit from selling Lao products.
Laos is one of only a handful of countries which enjoy diplomatic
relations with the United States but still lack normal trade relations.
Please work to grant normal trade relations and the implementation of
the trade agreement as soon as possible.
Thank you very much for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Paul Meyers
Executive Director
Stacy Spivak
Buyer, SouthEast Asia
This statement made on behalf of:
Ten Thousand Villages
Akron, PA 17501
Contact Persons: Paul Myers, Executive Director and Stacy Spivak, Buyer
for SouthEast Asia.
<F-dash>
Washington, D.C. 20011
April 21, 2003
Honorable Philip M. Crane, Chairman
Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
House of Representatives
United States Congress
Dear Mr. Chairman,
We join others in the Hmong-, Khmu-, Lao-, Mien-American and other
Laotian American communities (all referred to as Laotian Americans
throughout this letter) to submit comments for the possible granting of
Normalized Trade Relations (NTR) status to Laos. Under your leadership,
we understand the Committee on Ways and Means will embark on a historic
process that may shape the future of Laos and her people. We want to
add our perspective to this most important act which we believe may
have profound consequences beyond the decision itself. We know that
Laos is the last of the three ``Indochinese'' countries under
consideration for this critical inclusion in the U.S.'s international
trade agenda. We thank you for not forgetting this small country which
has played a pivotal role in U.S. history in that region. We understand
that the granting of NTR can open doors, paving a road towards igniting
formal cooperation on international trade engagement and discourse on
other issues such as human rights and democracy. In our eyes, this
symbolic step will set the necessary foundations, enabling both
countries to build a promising structure for economic growth and
prosperity.
First, we want to make clear that our primary interests are to find
ways for people within our communities to heal and find some closure as
they mourn the losses they experienced after the Vietnam War. Granting
NTR to Laos can be one step towards this healing process. The manner in
which this discussion takes place will determine the level of
challenges for future progress and U.S. engagement in Laos. For the
U.S. it is a technical step. For members of our community and family,
this is an incredibly emotional issue. As the children of that
generation, our primary role is to seek diplomatic engagement with
anyone who may share a similar vision of healing and moving towards a
future which might free us from past conflicts. Our purpose is to help
build trusting bridges with communities and the people of Laos through
constructive and transparent engagement. Also, as Americans who value
and believe in the humane treatment of all people, we also aim to
ensure that U.S. policies protect the rights of ordinary people in
developing countries such as Laos.
It is a well known fact that Laotian Americans were close allies
with the U.S. during the Vietnam conflict. To put it bluntly, Laotian
Americans saved American GIs' lives and sacrificed their own lives so
that Americans can come home to their families. Today, more than
500,000 Laotian Americans have rebuilt their lives and made the U.S.
their home. Based on the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) of the
Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), more than 241,956
Laotians entered the U.S. as refugees between 1975 and 2000 to seek
safe haven for resettlement. Also as a result of the war, we must not
forget that Laos was one of the countries most heavily bombed during
the War by the American military.
After more than 25 years, we believe Laos holds tremendous
potentials for the U.S. market. At the same time, Laotian Americans
have also built American neighborhoods and society with our hard work,
ideas and rich cultures. For these reasons, we understand that people
whose roots can be traced to Laos, on both sides of the ocean deserve
ours and your attention and support now more than ever.
This agreement is a major step in the process of healing,
reconstruction and long over-due commitment by the U.S. It also signals
the willingness of the Lao government to open its country to
international engagement. Most importantly, it should serve as a signal
by the U.S. to expand its economic ties and obligation for development
aid to the people of Laos. What is most unique is that Laotian
Americans can be a part of this process.
Although NTR promises engagement and opening Laos for other
developments, we fear that on the contrary, these kinds of agreements
can also allow transnational corporations more freedom to exploit
workers and to shape the national and global economy to suit their
interests. Beyond the general boilerplate of what is included in a
bilateral trade agreement, of which we are not permitted to review, my
colleague and I recommend the following:
<bullet> Worker Rights and Environmental Protections: Labor rights
and environmental protections should have the same status as the
protection of investors. Working conditions must comply with
international recognized core labor standards by the ILO and binding on
all member countries, including the U.S. and Laos. These labor
standards are the right to freedom of association, to organize and
bargain collectively and to be free from child labor, prison, bounded
or indentured labor and discrimination in employment. Any agreement
with Laos should consider factors which will be conducive to equal
distribution of wealth and therefore equitable development. Agreements
similar to the U.S.--Cambodia Apparel Agreement should be instituted
prior to enforcing the BTA and or integrated into steps towards NTR.
<bullet> Development and Human Rights: Trade can be a powerful tool
for development. However, for trade to be a strategy for development,
it must strengthen the democratic institutions that move developing
societies toward the rule of law. Many Laotian Americans continue to
battle with the question of human rights concerns in Laos. To help
resolve and formalize constructive engagement on this matter, we
propose establishing a commission on human rights similar to that of
the U.S.--China agreement. This entity would serve as a monitoring
mechanism to address specific incidents or to craft policies which may
allow intervention and assistance.
In addition to our specific concerns for realistic steps to ensure
that investment will lead to full integration into a global free market
economy, economic growth, the reduction of poverty, increased living
standards and employment opportunities, we amplify our perspectives
further by supporting the five principles of Unity on Trade and
Investment proposed by the AFL-CIO to guide U.S. policy-making. They
are attached below:
AFL-CIO: A Call for Global Fairness
Millions of people across this country and around the world have
lost jobs, been poisoned, watched their farms foreclosed and suffered
other indignities from corporate globalization. Today, they are
rallying around campaigns for global fairness, for reining in the
excessive political and economic power of global corporations and for
setting rules to ensure that trade and investment support sustainable
human development, a clean environment and dignified work. As the
nation debates proposals for ``Fast Track'' trade authority and the
expansion of the North American Free Trade Agreement into a Free Trade
Area of the Americas (FTAA), we unite behind the following five
principles that should guide U.S. policy:
1. LDemocracy, Transparency and Accountability: Broad-based citizen
participation in trade negotiations must be ensured through genuinely
democratic mechanisms of consultation and participation. The procedures
under which Congress considers trade agreements must include
opportunity for full debate and amendments. Negotiating texts,
including the full negotiating position of the U.S. government, should
be made public at regular and timely intervals (not less than every six
months), and trade agreements under negotiation must be subject to
thorough environmental and social reviews, including a review of their
impact on women, people of color and indigenous communities. Trade
dispute resolution must be open to the public. We will oppose any trade
agreement that is not negotiated under such democratic mechanisms.
2. LWorkers' and Human Rights: Workers worldwide are disadvantaged
by a global economic system that encourages countries and corporations
to compete by violating workers' fundamental human rights. U.S. workers
have lost high-paying jobs and have seen their wages and working
conditions eroded by trade policies that fail to address this problem.
Workers in poorer countries have found it next to impossible to protect
their rights and raise standards because corporations will shift their
jobs to countries where rights and standards are lower. Agreements
should recognize the primacy of the economic, environmental, social and
political rights of all people, including women (who often bear a
disproportionate burden from corporate-led globalization) and
indigenous peoples. Trade agreements must ensure that all workers can
freely exercise their basic rights as laid out by the 1998 ILO
Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work: the right to
organize and bargain collectively, to refuse forced labor, to reject
child labor and to work free from discrimination. These rights must be
included in trade agreements and covered by dispute resolution and
enforcement mechanisms sited in the appropriate forums that are fair,
reduce inequalities, encourage compliance and sanction violators
directly.
3. LThe Environment and the Public Interest: Trade agreements must
not undermine environmental standards. In particular, trade rules must
ensure that domestic environmental or other public interest laws and
regulations cannot be challenged by private investors before
international tribunals, and they must ensure the availability of
strong and clear exceptions to trade and investment rules for laws and
regulations that protect health, the environment and other public
interests. Trade agreements should also encourage environmental
progress by including initiatives to raise environmental performance,
binding obligations to enforce environmental laws and not lower
environmental standards, citizen review mechanisms and obligations for
investors to disclose basic information on environmental practices.
International trade and investment systems must safeguard the global
and local commons and respect the rights of local communities to
protect and sustainably develop their natural resources. Trade
agreements must not undermine public services, nor encourage
privatization or deregulation as a condition of market access. Finally,
trade agreements must not obstruct developing countries' right to
address HIV/AIDS and other health crises through public access to
essential medicines.
4. LAgriculture: Agricultural policies must support sustainable
livelihoods for family farmers and ranchers, and reduce the power of
agribusiness to manipulate global food supplies and farm prices.
Governments must retain the ability to provide economic safety net
programs and other economic assistance to producers as compensation for
the negative impact of unfair trade practices by others. Consumers must
be ensured the right to know and choose food produced in a sustainable
manner. And countries must be ensured the right to protect family
farmers and producers in rural communities and to produce a safe and
affordable food supply to meet adequate nutrition levels domestically.
5. LDebt and Development: Trade agreements have not focused on
enabling countries to invest in the building blocks of sustainable
development, and increased trade flows alone have not led to shared and
stable growth or to significant poverty reduction in developing
countries. The debts claimed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF)
and the World Bank from impoverished countries must be canceled and the
proceeds used to meet social and environmental needs; cancellation must
be delinked from ``structural adjustment'' conditions such as user fees
for health care and education that disadvantage people who are
impoverished, women and working people. International trade and
investment systems must respect the legitimate role of government, in
collaboration with civil society, to set policies regarding the
development and welfare of its people. Governments should also have the
right to regulate capital flows to shield their economies and people
from the destabilizing impact of speculative capital.
History has shown that expanded trade leads to more prosperous U.S.
businesses, more choices of goods and lower prices for consumers, and
more opportunities for American farmers and workers leading to higher
wages, more jobs and economic growth. We hope that through this
process, the U.S. can take a lead by providing appropriate AID,
technical support, and harnessing the leadership and expertise of the
Laotian American community to support the people of Laos so that they
will eventually enjoy the prosperity that some Americans have enjoyed.
Finally, this historic step must include the voices of Laotian
Americans. Together, we represent a generation that is the direct
legacy of the Vietnam War and America's involvement in Indochina or the
Southeast Asia region. We advocate for policies that respect the mutual
interests of all parties, no matter how extreme the positions may be.
This interest lies in the simple belief that we posses the right to
shape our future and possibly the destinies of our families still
living in Laos. Because of this grand responsibility, we urge you to
seek sincere and thoughtful steps to finding solutions that might begin
to help those still wounded by the ravages of war so that we can all
heal together. We owe that much to the people of Laos as well as those
who have sacrificed their lives for a taste of freedom.
You may reach us at the contact information below. Thank you for
your time.
Sincerely,
Bo Thao
KaYing Yang
<F-dash>
Vienna, Virginia 22182
April 21, 2003
The Honorable
Philip Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Chairman Crane:
I served as United States Ambassador to Laos from 1993 to 1996.
Then, as now, our highest national priority in Laos was securing the
cooperation of Lao authorities in accounting for missing American
servicemen from the period of the Vietnam War, a conflict in which Laos
figured prominently. During my tenure, we were able to make significant
progress on this important humanitarian issue, thanks in no small
measure to the cooperation of the Lao government. In general, that
cooperation has continued to the present day, a fact that is reflected
in the numbers of remains of servicemen who died in combat in Southeast
Asian that continue to be identified and repatriated to their loved
ones here at home.
This was not our only interest in Laos, however. In the late 1980s,
the Lao government initiated a program of reform designed to move Laos
away from the failed Marxist economic policies the country had followed
after 1975 and toward an economy based on market principles. By the
early 1990s, a number of American companies had come to Laos to take
advantage of the opportunities the government's reform program appeared
to offer. Not surprisingly, their efforts were not always successful,
in part because the government had little experience in operating a
market economy and was only beginning to develop the legal structure
necessary to support one.
It was in this context that our embassy in Vientiane began
discussing with the Lao government the conclusion of a bilateral trade
agreement. We felt that such an agreement would be an important
building block in the development of the legal framework needed in Laos
for the creation of a viable market economy and the success of
Americans seeking to participate in it. Progress came slowly, however,
because Lao authorities had little experience with the world outside
the socialist bloc in which they had operated for so many years. I left
Laos in August of 1993 disappointed in my failure to persuade the
government of the need for and the benefits to be derived from a trade
agreement. It took another year of negotiation to secure the
government's concurrence in a draft agreement.
The conclusion of this agreement, and the extension of normal
trading relations (NTR) to Laos, will produce a number of short term
benefits, including to American companies doing business with and in
Laos. However, I also believe strongly that there will be longer term
consequences which should be welcomed both here and by the Lao people
themselves. To endure, non-democratic regimes such as the current Lao
government need to keep out the ideas, institutions and influences that
have led to the development of liberal democracy elsewhere. Important
among these is the rule of law. Being forced to play by a set of rules
embodied in a bilateral trade agreement and required by NTR will, over
time, have a corrosive effect on the power of the ruling party in Laos
to govern by fiat and without regard to the popular will.
No one should assume that NTR is a panacea or that a democratic
millennium is at hand in Laos. For the time being, the group that has
dominated Lao politics since 1975 remains in control and is without
significant political opposition. But punitive actions, such as denying
NTR to Laos, will not change the situation for the better. On the
contrary, such an approach serves to strengthen the relative power of
the regime vis-`-vis the Lao people. Obliging the authorities to play
by a set of rules, even those as mundane as the rules governing
international trade will, in due course, have the opposite effect. For
those who hope for a better future for the Lao people--and I count
myself among them--the proper response to the current situation in Laos
is not isolation and ostracism. Rather, the most effective challenge
that can be mounted to the unrepresentative, undemocratic current
government will come from exposing Lao society to alternative
possibilities, including those that come through international trade
and business.
Accordingly, I urge you and your Congressional colleagues to grant
normal trading relations to Laos. Doing so will serve important
national interests of the United States. And it will also serve the
interests of the Lao people who deserve better than what they have
known for nearly three decades.
Sincerely,
The Honorable Victor L. Tomseth
<F-dash>
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Washington, D.C. 20062
April 11, 2003
The Honorable Phillip Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
House Ways and Means Committee
1102 Longworth House Office Building
Washington D.C. 20515
Re: Comments on the Normal Trade Relations with Laos
Dear Chairman Crane:
This letter is submitted in response to the advisory from the House
Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade of March 5, 2003 (TR-1) requesting
written comments on extending Normal Trade Relations (NTR) status for
Laos. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce strongly supports the extension of
NTR with Laos, and urges the Subcommittee to introduce the appropriate
legislation for this to occur as quickly as possible.
Laos is the only Southeast Asian country without NTR status,
despite its continuous diplomatic relations with the U.S. since its
founding in 1975. Passing NTR for Laos is a critical step towards
building a foundation for economic growth and openness in one of the
poorest countries in the world. It would also bring into force the
U.S.-Laos Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), which was concluded in late
1997 but was never signed by the Administration nor ratified by
Congress. When implemented, the BTA will offer expanded trade and
investment opportunities for U.S. companies and obligate Laos to
enforce intellectual property protection for U.S. products in that
market.
Building trade relations with Laos will also help solidify U.S.
competitiveness in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
region. ASEAN is America's third largest overseas market and has been
identified as a strategic region for economic engagement by the Bush
Administration under the Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative (EAI).
For the above reasons, the U.S. Chamber strongly supports the
extension of NTR for Laos and urges the Subcommittee to move forward
promptly after completing this review. If you would like to discuss the
issues contained herein, I can be reached at (202) 463-5455, or by
email at wworkman@uschamber.com.
Best Regards,
Willard A. Workman
Senior Vice President, International Affairs
cc: Rolf Lundberg, U.S. Chamber of Commerce
<F-dash>
United Hmong International, Inc.
(Non-Profit Organization)
Fresno, CA 93727
April 1, 2003
The Honorable Phillip M. Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade and
all Members of House Ways and Means Committee
U.S. House of Representatives
1104 Longworth House Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear The Honorable Chairman Phillip M. Crane and all Members of the
Committee.
We the Hmong representatives propose to the United States
Government, the United States Department of State, the United States
Congress and the United Nations to provide food, medications, clothing
and other necessary supplies to support our Hmong people in the jungle
of Laos, who are starving from food, medications, clothing, and other
necessary supplies, because they suffered from the Lao communist
government and Vietnamese troops who surrounded, chased and kill them
with chemical attacked, artilleries, bombs, helicopters, missiles and
etc., since September 2002 to the present time, many hundreds of Hmong
people died.
Many thousands of Hmong people are located at Phou Kong Qua, Phou
Yai, Teng Bong, Vientiane Province. Nam Taung, Pha Si, Pha Ngu, Phou
Bian, Special Zone Xaisomboun Province. Phou Nam Noua, Nam ma,
Moungxang, Moung Mok, Borikhamxai Province. These Hmong people are
allies of the United States of America and the free world countries,
because during the Vietnam War, these Hmong people paid an enormous
price to the United States of America and other free world countries.
Today is time for the United States of America and other free world
countries to consider your allies, the Hmong people as an enormous
price to them.
The communist Lao government of Lao People's Democratic Republic
(LPDR) and Vietnamese government were committed of war crimes, crimes
against peace and crimes against humanity in Laos. There are no peace,
no freedom, no democracy, no freedom of religions and no human rights
in Laos.
The Radio Free Asia-Laos Service reported on February 25, 2003,
that many hundreds of people demonstrated in Vientiane, Laos an on
March 25, 2003, VOA Radio-Laos Service also reported that more than ten
thousands people demonstrated in Vientiane, Laos, too. They opposed the
policy of the United States government toward Iraq. Those demonstrators
in Vientiane called to support the Iraqi government and they were anti-
foreign policy of the United States government toward Iraq. Therefore,
the Iraqi government and communist Lao government and communist Lao
government of LPDR are strong connections in the political, military
and other fields.
The Lao communist government and the North Vietnamese should have a
connection with Al-Qaeda or Ossama Bin Laden and Saddam Hussein,
because they used biological and chemical mass destruction to kill the
Hmong people for twenty eight years in the jungle of Laos. The LPDR is
supported Al-Qaeda and Saddam Hussein. Laos could be a possible place
for Ossama Bin Laden to hide.
We also propose to the United States government, the United States
Department of State, the United States Trade Commission, the United
States Congress and the United Nations to stop Normal Trade Relations
and assistance to the Lao communist government of Lao People's
Democratic Republic and Vietnamese, because the Normal Trade Relations
and assistance from the world will become the cancers as biological and
chemicals mass destructions to kill the Hmong people in the jungle of
Laos forever. The more Normal Trade Relations and assistance to the Lao
communist government of Lao People's Democratic Republic will cause
danger to the Hmong people in Laos. In the past twenty eight years, the
United States, Australia, Japan and government of Lao People's
Democratic Republic with billion of dollars, but Laos is still un-
developed, because the LPDR used assistance supported from the world to
buy artilleries, tanks, helicopters, bombs, ammunitions, biological and
chemical weapons of mass destructions to kill the Hmong people in the
jungle of Laos. We are pleading to the world to stop the Normal Trade
Relations and assistance to these two dictatorship governments. Your
support and trade with the Lao communist government of Lao People's
Democratic Republic will never change Laos to free society and
democratic systems.
We would like to request the United States government, the United
States of Department of State, the United States Congress and the
United Nations to provide food, medications, clothing and other
necessary supplies to help the Hmong people in the jungle of Laos.
Hmong people in the jungle of Laos are no different from innocents
Iraqi, Afghanistan and other people around the world.
According to S. RES. 240, ``(1) respect international norms of
human rights and democratic freedoms for the Lao people, and fully
honor its commitments to those norms and freedoms and internationals
agreements, and in the 1962 Declaration on the Neutrality of Laos and
its protocol and 1973 Vientiane Agreement on Laos. (2) issue a public
statement specifically reaffirming its commitment to protecting
religious freedom and other basic human rights; [and] (3) fully
institute a process of democracy, human rights, and openly-contested
free and fair elections in Laos, and ensure specifically that the
National assembly elections-currently scheduled for 2002-are openly
contested [.]; and (4) allow access for International human rights
monitors, including the International Committee of the Red Cross to Lao
prisons, and to all regions of the country to investigate allegations
of human rights abuses, including those against the Hmong people, when
requested.''
There was also a H.Con.Res. 406 to recognize the Hmong and other
groups who were `Secret Army' for the United States of America during
the Vietnam War. As this resolution is recognizing the importance,
those Hmong people in the jungle of Laos are important, too, because
they are a part of this resolution.
The times is coming for the United States government to investigate
and stop the ethnic cleansing war, biological and chemical warfare and
genocide against the Hmong people in Laos as soon as possible. Mr.
Chairman and all Members, we support the United States policy toward
Iraq and we need you to stop the war in Laos as soon as possible.
Considering the Laos issue as our proposal has address as soon as
possible would bring peace, freedom, democracy, freedom of religions
and human rights for the Lao people.
Hopefully, you will make the considerations for this proposal to
bring peace, freedom, freedom of religions and human rights to the
Hmong people in Laos that who are allies of the United States of
America.
Respectfully Yours
Vang Thao
President of the United Hmong International, Inc.
<F-dash>
United Lao/Hmong Congress for Democracy
Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54702
April 17, 2003
Honorable Philip Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of the Committee on Ways and Means
1104 Longworth House Office Building
House Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Chairman Crane:
As the United States-led coalition forces action, which includes my
young son among the American troops, against the Iraqi's regime is
winding down, we must keep in mind that the communist Lao regime is not
much different from the Iraqi regime. With this in mind, I am
submitting this letter of opposition to the Extension of Permanent
Normal Trade Relations Status to Laos due to the grave concern of human
rights abuses and atrocities committed by the Lao People's Democratic
Republic (LPDR).
On behalf of the suffering Laotian people including ethnic Hmong in
Laos, we oppose the granting of NTR to Laos based on the following
evidence.
Evidence
1. LIn 1975, the communist Pathet Lao regime and the government of
the Socialist Republic Vietnam (SRV) seized the Kingdom of Laos by
armed force and established the Lao People's Democratic Republic (LPDR)
in violation of the 1962 Geneva Declaration on Neutrality of Laos and
its protocol, as well as the 1973 Vientiane and Paris Peace Agreements
on Laos and Indochina.
2. LSince 1975, the governments of Laos and Vietnam have waged a
campaign of reprisal, repression, massive human rights violation, and
ethnic cleansing war against the freedom-loving Laotian, particularly
the ethnic Hmong who served the United States loyally during the
Vietnam War.
3. LSince the beginning of 2000, the Lao PDR, with the
collaboration of Vietnamese forces, has stepped up their military
campaign using all types of modern weapons including artillery and
helicopters with chemical poison, as well as land mines directly
against the Hmong in remote villages in the provinces of Xiengkhouang,
Xaisomboun-Special Zone, northern Vientiane-Vangvieng, and Borikhamsai,
causing the death and wounds in the thousands including women and
children.
4. LSince the signing of the anti-terrorism treaty on Aug. 1, 2002
in Brunei, by ASEAN, which Laos and the U.S. led Secretary of State,
Colin Powell, as co-signers, Lao PDR treated the treaty as an excuse
for its government to clean up the Hmong. The Lao PDR called the Hmong
terrorists, so they could exterminate the Hmong. Video footage of
killing ethnic Hmong and some Laotians by the Lao PDR will be delivered
to you on April 21 for your review. As you will see on the video, the
Lao PDR regime is the real terrorist. They are real evildoers. Khamtai
Siphandon, leader of the Lao regime, is not much different from Saddam.
If what the Lao PDR did to our people in Laos is not evil, then evil
and human value have no meaning as President George Bush stated in his
State of The Union Address. In his State of The Union Address, on
January 28, 2003 in regard to Saddam Hussein's human rights record, he
stated, ``If this is not evil, then evil has no meaning.''
LFurthermore, the Lao PDR is a strong supporter of Saddam
Hussein's regime and other evil nations. Clear examples were the two
state-sanctioned demonstrations held against the U.S.-led war with Iraq
in Vientiane, the Capital of Laos, on February 25 and March 23, 2003,
by thousands who were encouraged by the leaders of the Lao PDR. Such
rallies had never happened by the commoners under the Lao regime in the
last 28 years. How could the American government so willingly grant NTR
and aid to such horrible repressive regime in this modern time?
5. LThe disappearance of two Hmong-Americans-Houa Ly of Appleton
and Michael Vang of Fresno in the summer of 1999 in Bokeo, Laos.
6. LThe arrest of pro-democratic student leaders and teachers who
peacefully rallied for freedom, democracy, and economic reform in Oct.
26, 1999.
7. LThe arrest of five European Members who staged a peaceful
protest in front of the Presidential Palace calling for human rights,
justice, and freedom in October 26, 2001.
8. LIn a new report on March 19, 2003, the U.S. Commission on
International Religious Freedom concludes, ``the government of Laos has
engaged in particularly severe violations of freedom of religion, and
merits designation by the (Bush) Administration as a ``country of
particular concern'' under the International Religious Act of 1998''.
9. LThe millions of dollars and other foreign aid and loans granted
to Lao PDR by the United States and other countries as aid and
assistance, have not benefited the Lao people or met the expectations
of the donors. Today, Laos remains to be one of the poorest countries
in the world. Indeed, these grants only make the leaders rich and
reinforce the power of the Lao PDR by imposing harsher crackdowns on
its citizens and the freedom-loving people.
10. LOne would argue that granting NTR to Laos would bring it a step
closer toward economic reform and openness, but in reality in the
communist world, it does not. Have we seen improvement in Vietnam,
Laos's biggest supporter? After the U.S. granted yearly NTR to Vietnam
in 1988 and permanent NTR in 2000, Vietnam's human rights abuse has not
changed. The NRT may ease some tension between the U.S. and Vietnam and
at the same time benefit the Vietnamese elites and some U.S. business
tycoons, but all aspects of Vietnamese lives are still controlled by
the same communist party. Human rights violations of individuals and
Christians in Vietnam are on the rise. Laos would not be much
different.
Therefore, we recommended three actions to be taken as follows:
1. We call on the United States Congress to press the Lao PDR to
immediately cease attacking the Hmong in the remote areas, and
dramatically improve its human rights record in general by allowing
international human rights organizations to monitor its human rights
practices before NTR can be considered.
2. The United States should take a leadership role to immediately
coordinate a Fact-Finding Mission to Laos to investigate on-going
massive human rights abuse and ethnic cleansing in Laos before NTR can
be discussed.
3. We humbly ask the Trade Committee to cease considering NTR to
Lao at this time because we believe that NTR can only benefit the
communist Lao elites and empower them to suppress the Lao/Hmong
citizens. NTR and other financial aid and loans can only be considered
when the Lao PDR is willing to deal with true human rights, the rule of
laws, freedom and democracy before the eyes of the international
community.
Sincerely,
Stephen Vang
President of United Lao/Hmong Congress for Democracy
<F-dash>
United Laotian Americans (ULA)
Brooklyn Center, Minnesota 55429
April 17, 2003
Honorable Philip M. Crane Chairman
Subcommittee on Trade
Ways and Means Committee
House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Fax: 202-225-2610
Dear Congressman Crane:
This is our letter of support for extending Normal Trade Relations
(NTR) to Lao P.D.R. The United Laotian Americans (ULA), a non-profit
organization of Minnesota has the honor of representing the Laotian
American individuals, Associations and Organizations in Minnesota.
On January 14, 2003, I had the opportunity to meet with Mr. One-sy
Bouthsivongsakd, Chair of the Board of LNCCI, a Representative of
Employer's Organization and the Deputy Chairman of Society Security for
Enterprises. We discussed the Laos' Normal Trade Relation (NTR) and
realized the essential of what it can do for the citizens of the Lao
P.D.R. Mr. Bouthsivongsakd had pointed out labors force as follows:
Lao P.D.R. has population of 5.7 millions. There are 80 factories
in the country, which only 54 export their products. They have a total
of over 22,000 work forces, in which 86% are women, 70% are from the
rural areas, 50% had finished elementary school, 30% have some Junior
High School education, and 5% have High School diplomas. They produce
of over 40,000,000 of fabric products per year, which equals to revenue
of $110,000,000 U.S. Dollar.
35,000,000 of the items are sold to 52 countries around the world.
Over 80% are supplied to Europe market, and less than 10% are supplied
to the United States.
From 1997 to 2000, Lao P.D.R. had trade with the United States with
the revenue of $17,000,000 U.S. Dollar. Since then it has declined to
$2,600,000 U.S. Dollar in the year of 2001. The decline was in many
ways due to the lack of N.T.R. status. There were promising numbers of
companies intended to built in Laos in 1997 due to an anticipation that
NTR for Lao P.D.R. would not have encounter any obstacles as the
comprehensive bilateral trade agreement that the United States was
concluded. Since then, manyhad left the country due to the long waiting
of the N.T.R. Many of the products that were intended for production in
Lao P.D.R., are now being produced in Cambodia where NTR was granted in
1999. This has increase export revenue for Cambodia from less than
$17,000,000 in 1997 to $850,000,000 in 2002. It projects that export
revenue will increase to $1.2 billions in 2003. This clearly indicates
how NTR can help Lao P.D.R. with its economic development.
The following organizations have also expressed their support for
NTR for Lao PDR.
Lao PTA of Minnesota
Laotian American of Worthington Association
Lao Niyom of Minnesota Association
Lao Champhone Association
Indochina Children Organization
Lao Washington State Association
Sincerely,
Laxa Yabandith
Executive Vice President of ULA
<F-dash>
United Laotian Community
Oakland, California 94601
April 15, 2003
Honorable Congressman Philip M. Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of the Committee on Ways and Means
Capital Hill
Washington DC
Fax (202) 225-2610
Subject: US NTR for Laos
Dear Honorable Congressman Philip M. Crane
The United Laotian Community is a community base organization bases
in the City of Oakland, California wishes to express our support to the
statement of Laotian-American National Movement to support the Bush
Administration's policy toward Laos.
Sincerely,
Phaeng Toommaly Andersen
President
______
Respectfully Yours,
The Voice of the Laotian American National Movement
In support of
The Bush Administration's Trade Initiative
To extend Normal Trade Relations to Laos
We believe that:
Widespread and rapidly growing unemployment among youth in Laos has
driven tens of thousands of them to flee to Thailand and other
neighboring countries where they fall prey to exploitative and inhumane
treatment by their employers and criminals; while the land-locked
Laotian economy continues to weaken due to decline in foreign
investment and its weak capability to compete with its neighbors in the
export markets. The situation is further aggravated by the continued
denial of US NTR while such privilege is enjoyed by its stronger
immediate neighbors, including Vietnam and Cambodia.
US NTR for Laos is not a panacea for its social economic problems,
but it will put Laos on a level playing field with its neighboring
countries on which to compete for a share of the U.S. markets. This in
turn will stimulate domestic and foreign investment in Laos and give
the country a fair chance to provide decent jobs for its youth and
thereby help reverse the current ill treatment and suffering they have
had to endure, both in Laos and in neighboring countries.
We realize that Laotian communities across the U.S. are not
unanimous in their views about the current Laotian Government and its
policies, and that the majority of Laotian Americans still wish to see
more political reforms and changes. But we believe that a stronger
Laotian economy will improve living conditions of the Laotian people
who, in turn, will then become real stakeholders and, eventually
catalysts for change. Experience in Asia has amply demonstrated that
the democratization process has been economically driven.
While understanding and respecting the views of those opposing the
granting of US NTR for Laos, we ask that they also understand and
respect our views and positions on this important matter. As American
citizens, we have the obligation to respect each other's rights and
freedom to express our views in accordance with our belief and
conscience.
The majority of Laotian Americans have reconnected with their
homeland. Most of them have returned to Laos for visits and have
relatives who are still there and wish to see that they be given a fair
chance for a better living. Most Laotian Americans believe that
promoting economic development is the best way to promote peaceful and
sustainable change in Laos.
We wholeheartedly applaud and share the position taken by the Bush
Administration on the issue of US NTR for Laos. Ambassador Hartwick is
trying to encourage discussion and favorable consideration of this
initiative.
Laotian Americans and friends of the Laotians who share our views
should exercise their right of freedom of speech by voicing their views
to their respective Congressional representatives, especially members
of the House Ways and Means Committee.
The opposition to the US NTR to date seeks to isolate and
impoverish Laos for their own ambiguous political agenda. They have
organized and financed aggressive lobby efforts to prevent hearings on
this matter. Some of them continue to believe that poverty will force
change in Laos. Recent history in Asia shows otherwise. People in
isolated and poor North Korea have no means to ask for change, they
starve in silence; while in relatively rich South Korea and other parts
of Asia (Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, Philippines etc.) growing
affluence of the peoples have created economically strong and well
educated middle class who in turn have proven to be the real incubators
and guardians of the growing democratization process.
A constructive engagement approach is a better alternative for the
U.S. to promote change in Laos; and that promoting change through
peaceful socioeconomic development is far more effective and humane
than deliberate impoverishment of our fellow Laotians in Laos. Laos
needs to adopt international standards and strengthen the rule of law.
We should voice our collective efforts to urge the U.S. Congress to
grant Laos the US NTR.
Laotian American National Movement will try to coordinate and in
some cases help to campaign for US NTR for Laos. Our American friends
can certainly help to do the same. Let's not leave out any body that
can help.
For more information, please contact:
The US-Lao NTR Coalition
C/o Laotian-American National Coalition
120 Broadway, Suite 4
Richmond, CA 94804
(510) 235-5005, (510) 235-5065
Website: Laotianlink.com
Email: Laotianlink@USA.com
<F-dash>
Statement of Bounthanh Rathigna, President
United League for Democracy in Laos, Inc., Virginia
First of all, we would like to express our appreciation to the
Trade Subcommittee and Members of Congress for their concern about
Laos--one of the smallest and poorest countries of the world. We
appreciate opportunity to present our views-which are held by thhe vast
majority of Laotian-Americans--in strong opposition to granting
Normalized Trade Relations (NTR) status to the Communist Lao People's
Democratic Republic (LPDR) at this time.
At the outset, we are very concerned that Ambassador Douglas
Hartwick, after his nomination had been rightly been frozen by the
Senate for 18 months, solemnly made a statement before the Committee on
Foreign Relations on June 29, 2001, that if confirmed he would set. .
.(a number of) goals as a top priority: `` improving human rights and
human rights awareness are integral aspects of our bilateral
relationship with Laos. America's steadfast commitment to advance the
protection of human rights around the world is a beacon of hope for
many who seek positive change in Laos.'' However, Hartwick has clearly
violated and broken his promises. In fact, by January 2003, Hartwick
appears to have already proudly become a lobbyist for the Lao Communist
Government by vigorously campaigning for NTR for Laos. In Ambassador
Hartwick's shameful and unpopular speech to the Lao Community in
Richmond, California, on January 25, 2003, and Seattle, WA on January
26, 2003, had said that he: ``Needs another tool to promote change in
Laos `` and he ``believes one of the most important tools for changing
is establishing a normal trade relationship with LPDR.''
In an open letter to the members of the Bush Administration and the
U.S. Congress, the so-called
``The Lao American National Movement in support of . . . (the)
trade initiative to extend NTR to Laos'', said ``US NTR will put Laos
on a level playing field with its neighboring countries on which to
compete for a share of US markets.'' We respect their views, but also
would like them to hear ours and the voices of the vast majority of the
Laotians who unfortunately had to leave their beloved homeland, which
became a killing field after the communist takeover in 1975. Lao-
Americans, by an overwhelming majority, are strongly oppose granting
NTR Status to the LPDR regime.
In the petition to the U.S. Congress in January 2003, the United
Lao Action Center wrote:
L ``ULAC believes that without internal political and economic
freedom, external free trade will not work, it will not promote
economic growth as intended. It will definitely, not benefit
the people of Laos. Without the necessary fundamental
preconditions--political as well as economic--NTR, if granted
as its stand now, will be counter-productive . . . and an
enormous cost to Ameriican taxpayers.''
In a statement to Ambassador Hartwick in January 26, 2003,
representatives of the Lao-American Community of the Northwest said:
``By granting NTR status, at this point, the US government would
inadvertently send the wrong message to the Lao people--that it is
willing to reward a dictatorial government (the LPDR), which
consistently ignores its own constitution and its innternational
obligations to uphold and comply with the United Nations' Universal
Declaration of Human Rights. It would dash any hopes and dreams the Lao
people still have, and hold so dear to their hearts, that one day, this
country, through international pressure, would enjoy true liberty and
democracy that we, Americans, have been taking for granted for so
long.''
In an open letter to Mrs. Paula Dobrinsky, Under Secretary of State
for Global Affairs and Mr. Lome Craner, Assistant Under Secretary of
State (Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor), the Lao Movement
for Human Rights and Forum for Asia Democracy had expressed their
solidarity with all those who oppose the awarding of NTR status to the
Lao Communist Regime (while the leaders of state party of LPDR have not
provided tangible, significant--and above all--verifiable proof of
their efforts in field of democracy and respect for human rights and
liberty).
In addition to the hundreds of letters, petitions and
announcements, there are also thousands of e-mails from Lao people
around the world expressing opposition to granting NTR status to the
Lao communist regime.
Our point of view on Laos' situation, especially on the issue of
the US-Laos relationship is very clear; we distinguish between the Lao
people and the Communist authority, which is in reality a Vietnamese
puppet regime in Laos. However, we do not believe that a policy of
appeasement of the American government to entice political change in
Laos--through economic concession or a blank check of financial
assistance to the Communists--will work. To the contrary, it will only
help the Lao Communist regime to continue its human rights abuses,
religious persecution and other injustices. Free trade might help
improve the living conditions of the majority of the people-but only in
a country governed by the Rule of Law. It will not yield its benefits
as intended as long as economic decisions are dictated by a small group
of old guard ``elite'' of the communist regime. The basic economic
problem of the LPDR rests not only with the natural constraint of being
landlocked and high tariff on exporting goods to America, but from a
political system that is obsolete and hinder growth because of a
climate of lawlessness and arbitrary practices which further deter
direct private investment, both domestic and foreign. The productivity
of Laos is corroded by mismanagement and corruption--and further
handicapped by a dire lack of competent, qualified and skilled-human
resources. To place total focus on NTR as a singular solution is to
oversimplify the Laos problems. It is not only misses the mark, but
could backfire and prove costly for investors and donors.
In the view of many Lao-Americans, NTR will not benefit the Lao
people and will simply serve as a moneymaker for the communist
leadership. The Lao Communist leadership places a high premium on it as
a symbolic triumph, which will shore up their sagging credibility with
the people. Once it is granted, they will ``show case'' it as an
affirmation of their otherwise corrupt regime. For Laotian-Americans
and other freedom loving-people, it is tantamount to rewarding a brutal
dictatorship and its terrible oppression of the people. NTR should be
an instrument for promoting political change in Laos. It should be
granted only after the communist leadership in Laos makes a real change
in attitude and behavior. It does not make sense to just give it to
them and sit back and hope.
For lack of a better analogy, the idea of dangling the carrot
before the donkey--not put it in his mouth and then try to tell it to
do what you want-applies to the NTR trade issue regarding Laos.
Moreover,, with regard to the Communist regime in Laos, the carrot
alone will not do the job. We also need the stick-in terms of economic
sanctions and moratoria on bilateral and multilateral financial flow to
the Lao communist regime. This would not make any difference to the Lao
people, most of whom have subsisted in abject poverty for decades now,
despite the billions of dollars that have been poured into the country.
Sanctions, on the other hand, would pressure the communist regime,
which as we know, is already strapped for cash, into thinking and
making serious changes.
In view of the annual report published by the Department of State
on the situation of human rights in Laos (published March 31,2003),
there is no need to remind one of the dictatorial nature of the Pathet
Lao regime that has ruled the country since 1975, nor to list the
numerous, serious and repeated violations of the political, economic,
social and religious rights of the Lao people.
Has the international community not already given too many
``gifts'' to the communist, in terms of hundreds millions of dollars in
loans, aid, debt relief, etc.? The award of NTR status to neighboring
countries--in particular Myanmar, and Vietnam--has not brought real and
verifiably beneficial effects in the field of human rights or
democracy.
This is why we believe that the Vientiane regime must first make a
significant ``gesture'' to deserve NTR statUS-in particular by
releasing, immediately and unconditionally, the prisoners of opinion
whose only ``crime'' is to have denounceed, in peaceful manner, the
iniquity or even simply the general drift of the regime, and to have
called for the respect of fundamental rights, social justice as well as
the introduction of a multi-party system.
For these reasons, and the questions outline above, which remain a
matter of grave concern to us, we respectfully urge the U.S. Congress
to deny NTR to the Lao Communist regime until such time as it can be
ascertained and verified that Lao government has taken specific,
concrete and significant steps to redress the human rights situation,
religious persecution--and to institute real change toward openness,
transparency and democratization.
A useful step in this direction, we believe, would be to hold an
in-depth, and broad-based, Congressional hearing on this issue,
involving all sides, at political, as well as, economic levels.
Thank you for your consideration,
Bounthanh Rathigna
President United League for Democracy in Laos, Inc.
<F-dash>
United States Association of Importers of Textiles and Apparel
New York, New York 10003
April 21, 2003
Comments In Support of Normal Trade Relations With Laos
The United States Association of Importers of Textiles and Apparel,
USA-ITA, whose members include textile and apparel manufacturers,
distributors, retailers, importers and related service providers, such
as shipping lines and customs brokers, and account for as much as $100
billion in U.S. apparel sales annually, strongly support Normal Trade
Relations (NTR) with Laos.
The absence of NTR duty status has greatly limited the viability of
Laos as a supplier of apparel to the U.S. market. The one U.S. quota on
Laos, covering cotton and man-made fiber men's and boys' woven shirts,
has not had a single charge against it this year, demonstrating that
the imposition of Column Two duty rates renders Lao manufacturers
uncompetitive. Unless Laos is given an opportunity to develop an
apparel manufacturing and exporting business before December 31, 2004,
it is unlikely to be able to establish a competitive industry in a
post-quota era environment.
Opening up trade with Laos will not have any negative impact on the
U.S. domestic textile industry. Laos is a minor supplier to the U.S.
market. It ranks 128<SUP>th</SUP> of all countries selling to the U.S.
market, and sold only $2.6 million worth of textile and apparel
products to the United States during the most recent twelve months.
Approving NTR for Laos serves United States' trade policy and
economic objectives, providing a means for Lao manufacturers to compete
in the U.S. market. Moving forward with this aspect of the
normalization of relations also would have a positive impact on other
matters of concern, including the promotion of human rights and other
freedoms. These are inevitable consequences of the presence of American
firms, who bring with them American standards, including stringent
Codes of Conduct, and American values when they place orders in
overseas factories.
USA-ITA member companies also see the establishment of NTR status
for Laos as an appropriate and essential step toward achievement of the
Enterprise for the ASEAN Initiative, announced by the Bush
Administration last year. Laos is a member of the ten country
Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which provides an
important forum for economic reforms and integration and global trade
liberalization. Trade initiatives with the ASEAN, including Laos, also
offer a means for promoting U.S. security interests, a particularly
important issue in today's world. The ability of the United States to
move forward with its goal of reciprocal trade liberation with the
ASEAN nations also compels normalization of relations with Laos.
USA-ITA member companies also look forward to the accession of Laos
into the World Trade Organization. Establishment of NTR status for Laos
would provide momentum for that achievement.
Respectfully submitted,
Laura E. Jones
Executive Director
<F-dash>
United States Commission on International Religious Freedom
Washington, D.C. 20002
April 17, 2003
Members of the Subcommittee on Trade
Ways and Means Committee
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Chairman Crane and Members of the Subcommittee,
Please find attached the executive summary and recommendations from
the 2003 report on Laos by the United States Commission on
International Religious Freedom. As the subcommittee considers the
extension of permanent normal trade relations treatment to products
from Laos, the Commission asks that the attached materials be included
in the record. (A complete copy of the Laos report can be found on the
Commission's web site at www.uscirf.gov.)
The Commission is charged with reviewing the facts and
circumstances of violations of international religious freedom. By law,
a key function of the Commission is to submit to the President,
Secretary of State, and Congress its findings and recommendations for
U.S. policies with respect to foreign governments engaging in or
tolerating violations of religious freedom.
In its report findings, the Commission has determined that the
government of Laos has been engaged in particularly severe violations
of religious freedom, as defined in the International Religious Freedom
Act of 1998. These violations include the arrest, prolonged detention,
and imprisonment of members of religious minorities on account of their
religious activities.
While the Commission has no position on whether permanent normal
trade relations treatment should be extended to Laos, it does urge the
United States government to make clear that the cessation of practices
which abuse religious freedom is essential to an improvement in and an
expansion of U.S.-Laos relations. The Commission is hopeful that the
subcommittee will take the Commission's findings and recommendations
into account as it considers increasing trade relations with Laos.
Sincerely,
Joseph R. Crapa
Executive Director
______
Laos
Executive Summary
Since the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP) assumed power in
1975, there has been extensive government interference with and
restrictions on all religious communities. In more recent years, the
government has focused its repression on religions that are relatively
new to Laos, including Protestant Christianity. During this time
period, the government of Laos has engaged in particularly severe
violations of religious freedom as defined in the International
Religious Freedom Act of 1998 (IRFA). These include the arrest,
prolonged detention, and imprisonment of members of religious
minorities on account of their religious activities. In addition, Lao
officials have forced Christians to renounce their faith. At the same
time, dozens of churches have been closed. Given the seriousness of
religious freedom violations in Laos, the U.S. Commission on
International Religious Freedom (Commission), in both 2000 and 2001,
recommended that Laos be designated as a ``country of particular
concern'' (CPC), pursuant to IRFA. In February 2002, the Commission
sent a delegation to Laos on a fact-finding mission.
In July 2002, the Lao government promulgated a new decree on
religious affairs that provides a legal basis for control of and
interference with religious activities by government officials.
Although some religious detainees have reportedly been released after
July 2002, others remain in detention. In the light of these
circumstances, in 2002, the Commission once again recommended that Laos
be designated as a CPC.
Laos is a one-party, authoritarian state, which has suppressed the
human rights of its citizens and foreigners alike. The inability of the
government of Laos to rule effectively, in combination with a culture
that resists change, has contributed to serious underdevelopment,
making Laos one of the poorest and least educated societies in the
world. The ineffectiveness of the current government has also
compounded the difficulty of assuring religious freedom and other
related human rights in Laos. For example, central government officials
have limited ability to investigate alleged human rights abuses in
remote parts of Laos due to poor road conditions and limited
transportation equipment. Moreover, there are virtually no legal
protections for human rights, as Laos has an underdeveloped legal
system with only 48 laws to govern all aspects of life and there are
few lawyers in the country. Finally, another challenge to advancing the
protection of religious freedom in Laos is the historically close
linkage between Buddhism and the Lao state, which has contributed to
the government's suspicion of non-Buddhist religions that are
relatively new to that country.
Since September 11, 2001, Southeast Asia has become an increasingly
important arena in the U.S.-led campaign against terrorism. Laos'
importance to U.S. interests has also increased by virtue of its status
as a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and its
support for the international counter-terrorism effort. Meanwhile, the
government of Laos has continued to engage in serious violations of
religious freedom and related human rights. Yet, Laos has not received
much attention from U.S. foreign policymakers, including the Congress.
Laos is at an important crossroad, and U.S. attention to Laos at this
time may advance protections for religious freedom and promote U.S.
interests. Indeed, while some Lao officials have advocated Vietnam and
China as models for Laos' future, others have expressed a desire to
modernize the country by learning from the experiences of the United
States and other developed nations in the West. In particular, Lao
officials perceive the United States to be influential in the provision
of international aid for Laos' development and some have thus
demonstrated a willingness to address U.S. concerns, including human
rights concerns raised by this Commission, the State Department, and
non-governmental organizations. This suggests that the present is a
pivotal moment in the history of Laos and U.S.-Laos relations. The
United States has a unique opportunity to engage the government and
people of Laos in a process of reform that would end the suppression of
religious freedom and other related human rights, and relatively small
measures of attention and assistance could accomplish a great deal.
Therefore, the Commission makes the following recommendations to the
U.S. government:
1. The President should designate Laos as a CPC to make clear U.S.
concerns over particularly severe violations of religious freedom in
Laos, thus engaging the U.S. government in a process to promote changes
that would advance legal as well as practical protections of freedom of
religion and related human rights in that country.
2. The U.S. government should urge the government of Laos to take
specific steps to improve respect for religious freedom, including the
possible establishment of a bilateral human rights dialogue that would
also address the broader range of human rights concerns such as torture
and other forms of ill-treatment. In addition, the U.S. government
should make clear to the government of Laos that any such dialogue or
other improvement in U.S.-Laos relations must be based on the immediate
cessation of practices that abuse religious freedom, including
arbitrary arrest and detention, forced renunciation, and church
closings.
3. The U.S. government should provide assistance to Laos to take
genuine steps to reform its practices, policies, laws, and regulations
that contribute to religious freedom violations. In this regard, the
State Department should undertake an assessment of human rights needs
in Laos in order to identify specific areas where the United States
could provide support and assistance for establishing human rights
protections. The assessment should address, among others, technical
legal assistance, dissemination of information about human rights,
human rights training programs, educational efforts targeting all Lao
citizens, and exchange programs.
Commission Recommendations
The Commission has found that the Lao government continues to
engage in particularly severe religious freedom violations. At the same
time, the Lao government has begun to take steps that, if continued,
could lead to improved protection of religious freedom.
If the Lao government is committed to taking further steps, the
U.S. government has the opportunity to encourage and support reforms
that could lead to the establishment of a legal basis for religious
freedom, affirm the equal legal standing of all religious beliefs and
communities, clarify the rights of religious groups and individuals,
and end violations that have continued to occur. The revision and
implementation of the new decree in a way that is consistent with
international human rights law is critical to demonstrate the central
government's commitment to improving the protection of religious
freedom. Officials in the Lao central government assert that the new
decree will put religious activities on a legal footing and help
discipline abuses by local leaders, such as detention, forced
renunciation, and church closing.
During the Commission's visit to Laos, it was apparent that the Lao
government has expressed a genuine interest in opening up to the
outside world. Many observers have pointed out that Laos is now faced
with the decision of either becoming more oriented toward the West or
moving closer to China and Vietnam. Although a number of senior Lao
officials may support the latter option, the Lao government is
interested in international development assistance and perceives that
the United States is an influential member of the international donor
community. The Commission thus believes that the U.S. government should
be prepared to exercise that influence, and to offer assistance to Laos
if necessary, to advance the protection of religious freedom and other
human rights in Laos, if the government of Laos is genuinely interested
in undertaking the necessary reforms and ending abusive practices.
1. The President should designate Laos as a country of particular
concern, in accordance with provisions of the International Religious
Freedom Act of 1998.
Under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 (IRFA), the
President or his designee, the Secretary of State, is required to
designate as countries of particular concern (CPCs) those countries the
government of which has engaged in or tolerated ``particularly severe
violations of religious freedom,'' as defined in the law.<SUP>[i]</SUP>
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\[i]\ See International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 (IRFA), 402
(b)(1)(A), 22 U.S.C. 6442 (b)(1)(A). ``Particularly severe violations
of religious freedom'' are defined in IRFA 3 (11), 22 U.S.C. 6402
(11) as:
``systematic, ongoing, egregious violations of religious freedom,
including violations such as--(A) torture or cruel, inhuman or
degrading treatment or punishment; (B) prolonged detention without
charges; (C) causing the disappearance of persons by the abduction or
clandestine detention of those persons; or (D) other flagrant denial of
the right to life, liberty, or the security of persons'' (emphasis
added).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
As noted earlier, the Commission has found that in the past year
the government of Laos continues to engage in particularly severe
violations of religious freedom, thus meeting the statutory criteria
for designation as a CPC. As discussed above, the Lao government has
recently released religious prisoners. The release of imprisoned
individuals, while welcome, does not represent the kind of systemic
improvements that are necessary to strengthen the protection of
religious freedom and bring Laos' laws and practices into conformity
with international law. It therefore remains to be seen whether the Lao
government will take additional steps that lead to sustained
improvements in the protection of the right to freedom of religion and
significantly reduce particularly severe religious freedom violations.
Such additional steps include the actions specified in recommendation 2
below. If that becomes the case, the Commission might during the year
ahead review its recommendation on CPC designation.
Designation of CPCs is an important aspect of IRFA, but it is only
one aspect. IRFA requires policy responses, both for CPCs and for all
other violators of religious freedom. IRFA does not, however, dictate
what the precise response must be in every case. Sanctions are not the
only option, as the statute provides an extensive list of policy tools
of varying intensity from which to choose.
2. The U.S. government should make clear to the government of Laos
that the cessation of practices which abuse religious freedom is
essential to an improvement in and an expansion of U.S.-Laos relations.
In this context, the U.S. government should urge Lao officials to:
L 2.a. halt the arrest and detention of persons on account of
their manifestation of religion or belief;
L 2.b. release from imprisonment or detention persons who are
so restricted on account of their manifestation of religion or
belief;
L 2.c. end abusive practices such as the ill treatment in
prisons and other places of confinement against such persons;
L 2.d. cease practices that coerce individuals to renounce any
religion or belief, including detention, imprisonment, or
forcible displacement from one's home for the failure to
renounce one's faith;
L 2.e. cease the arbitrary closing of churches, schools, and
other religious facilities;
L 2.f. refrain from implementing those elements of the recent
prime ministerial decree on religious activities that are
inconsistent with international human rights law and to revise
the decree to bring it into conformity with international
standards;
L 2.g. respect and fully implement the freedom of individuals
and organizations to engage in religious activities in
accordance with their own beliefs or doctrines and free from
government interference;
L 2.h. provide access to religious persons (including those
imprisoned or detained) in all parts of Laos by foreign
diplomats, humanitarian organizations, and international human
rights and religious organizations; and
L 2.i. ratify the International Covenant on Civil and
Political Rights (ICCPR) and invite the UN Special Rapporteur
on Freedom of Religion or Belief and other relevant rapporteurs
to visit the country.<SUP>[ii]</SUP>
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\[ii]\ Since the 1970s, the Lao government has either ratified,
acceded to, or signed a number of international human rights treaties
that contain obligations to protect freedom of religion and belief: the
International Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Racial
Discrimination (acceded to in 1974); the Convention on the Elimination
of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (ratified in 1981); and
the Convention on the Rights of the Child (acceded to in 1991). Laos
signed the ICCPR in 2000, but has yet to ratify it.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. The U.S. government should initiate a bilateral human rights
dialogue with the government of Laos that would establish measurable
goals and practical steps, such as the actions listed in Recommendation
2, to eliminate violations of the right to freedom of religion or
belief. This dialogue should also address the broader range of human
rights concerns in Laos, many of which are related to religious freedom
violations, such as torture and other forms of ill-treatment, unlawful
arrest or detention, absence of due process, and violations of the
rights of freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly.
To ensure a comprehensive approach to promoting religious freedom,
the U.S. government should undertake to establish a bilateral human
rights dialogue with the government of Laos. This would initiate an
ongoing forum to identify benchmarks for improvement and specific steps
to be implemented by the government of Laos to protect human rights,
including religious freedom. During the process of establishing such
benchmarks and steps, the U.S. and Lao governments should incorporate
the specific actions recommended by the Commission. A binding agreement
between the United States and Laos to cease practices that constitute
particularly severe violations of religious freedom, as authorized
under IRFA, could provide a framework for addressing these abuses as
part of the official dialogue.
If a human rights dialogue is established, the State Department
should invite the Commission to participate in it as a demonstration of
the U.S. government's concern for promoting religious freedom in Laos.
Moreover, the State Department should consider ways within the context
of the dialogue--in addition to its formal sessions--that religious
freedom can be addressed and improved. For example, the State
Department should, within the context of the dialogue, facilitate
regular exchanges between Lao government officials and religious
leaders and their U.S. counterparts, including U.S. congressional
members. This type of informal exchange provides an opportunity to
discuss religious freedom concerns, and should be encouraged by the
U.S. government.
4. The U.S. government should provide assistance to advance human
rights in Laos if the Lao government demonstrates a genuine commitment
to implement legal and other reforms to end violations of religious
freedom and associated human rights in Laos. In this regard, the State
Department should undertake an assessment of human rights needs in Laos
in order to identify specific areas where the United States could
provide support and assistance for establishing human rights
protections, particularly through support for nongovernmental
organizations and initiatives. A concrete plan based on this assessment
should be developed and implemented. The areas that should be addressed
in this assessment include, but are not limited to, technical
assistance in the drafting and implementation of laws and regulations;
provision of information on human rights to the people of Laos;
exchange programs designed to encourage the creation of institutions of
civil society that protect human rights; third-party human rights
training programs for Lao officials; and education to combat
intolerance.
The difficulty of fully implementing human rights, particularly
religious freedom, in Laos is compounded by the twin challenges of a
traditional popular resistance to change and the communist government's
suspicion of religious activities not under its control. The situation
is exacerbated by the low level of education among the people of Laos,
as well as underdeveloped and poor communication and transportation
facilities that have resulted in limited access to many parts of the
country where religious freedom abuses have occurred. Furthermore, the
absence of a legal tradition is an additional obstacle to the types of
reforms that are necessary to bring laws and practices into conformity
with international standards.
It is with these difficulties in mind that the Commission
recommends that the State Department undertake an assessment of the
human rights needs in Laos in order to identify the means by which the
United States could support and assist the government of Laos in
addressing those needs. In view of the poverty in the country and the
lack of political or economic development, relatively small amounts of
assistance could have a significant impact on the effort to improve
respect for human rights and religious freedom in Laos. The assessment
should take into account efforts by others in the international
community, including governments as well as international and
nongovernmental organizations, to support human rights protections in
Laos. The assessment should address, among others, the following areas:
<bullet> LTechnical legal assistance: Some Lao officials told the
Commission delegation visiting Laos that its government would welcome
U.S. assistance in the formulation of legal codes. In this vein, the
assessment should consider concrete actions that could be taken by the
U.S. government to advance the establishment, in both law and practice,
of institutional protections of individual human rights, including
religious freedom. These institutions should include mechanisms for
holding officials to account for any violation of human rights,
preventing further abuses, and providing redress for victims of rights
violations. Appropriate mechanisms to address this problem would have
to be assessed in light of the current nature of the legal system,
including the administration of justice, in Laos.
<bullet> LInformation on human rights: The assessment should
examine means by which information on human rights could be provided to
the people of Laos, including via international broadcasts, other forms
of information dissemination in the Lao language, and appropriate
educational efforts. Currently, both Radio Free Asia (RFA) and Voice of
America provide daily broadcasts in the Lao language. The Lao service
chief at RFA informed the Commission that the bulk of RFA programs are
focused on issues related to human rights and democracy. The U.S.
government should continue to support and, where appropriate, expand
these efforts to disseminate information within Laos about the
importance of human rights, including religious freedom.
<bullet> LHuman rights training programs: The combination of a
culture that is resistant to change and a very poorly developed legal
system have contributed to extensive underdevelopment in Laos, which
has resulted in the existence of an uninformed local population whose
knowledge of the outside world is limited. These factors must be
addressed effectively in order to advance the protection of religious
freedom and associated human rights in Laos. In the process of
addressing those factors, however, an important step toward meeting the
human rights objectives in Laos would be the creation of human rights
training programs for specific leadership sectors, such as government
officials, religious leaders, and others. Such programs could be
conducted by representatives of international organizations and NGOs.
Through these programs, trainees could be provided such information as
the basic concepts of human rights, including religious freedom;
international human rights conventions and standards as well as
relevant foreign laws and regulations that protect religious freedom
and associated rights; and the means by which laws and regulations
could be formulated and implemented to ensure the protection of
religious freedom and other human rights.
<bullet> LOther educational efforts: Human rights education should
not be limited to government officials and other leaders. To establish
a foundation for the protection of religious freedom and associated
human rights throughout Lao society, the U.S. government should
consider supporting efforts to combat intolerance, including religious
intolerance, through the development and implementation of general
education curricula that provides information on the importance of
human rights, including religious freedom.
<bullet> LExchange programs: The U.S. government, through the U.S.
Embassy in Laos, has sponsored cultural, legal, and educational
exchanges. The continuation of these bilateral exchanges is important
to the successful implementation of the aforementioned programs and
efforts to protect religious freedom and associated human rights.
Therefore, the U.S. government should continue to support these
exchanges and ensure that future exchanges will include Lao religious
affairs officials, religious leaders, and others.
<F-dash>
Unocal Corporation
Washington, D.C. 20036
March 31, 2003
The Honorable Phillip Crane
Chairman, Trade Subcommittee
Committee on Ways and Means
US House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
By facsimile: 202 225-2610
Dear Mr. Chairman:
On behalf of Unocal Corporation, I am writing to urge you to
approve Normal Trade Relations with Laos.
Although Unocal Corporation does not currently do business in Laos,
we are long time investors throughout ASEAN and recognize that the
ultimate economic prosperity of the region will be enhanced by moving
the 4 newer, undeveloped members of ASEAN forward. Laos is the only
member of ASEAN which does not currently enjoy NTR status. Granting NTR
to Laos would remove one of the last remaining barriers to harmonized
exports, and could help facilitate further integration in ASEAN.
Granting NTR will also help reinforce economic reforms now underway
and encourage the government to liberalize remaining parts of the
economy. These are needed and important steps in helping the Lao
economy grow.
A strong and growing ASEAN market is good for U.S. companies, and
particularly for energy companies like Unocal which have a strong and
longstanding presence in the region. US energy companies have competed
very well in ASEAN markets and will continue to do so as our
governmental policies keep pace with those of Europe, China and Japan--
all of which are undertaking new initiatives to compete for this
market.
For all these reasons, I encourage you to move forward with
legislation approving NTR for Laos.
Sincerely yours,
William Ichord
<F-dash>
US-ASEAN Business Council
Washington, D.C. 20036
April 3, 2003
The Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Chairman Crane:
On behalf of the US-ASEAN Business Council and its 150 member
companies doing business in the ASEAN countries, I am writing to
express our support for the extension of Normal Trade Relations (NTR)
to Laos. The Council has been on record in support of NTR for Laos
since the negotiation of a bilateral trade agreement between the United
States and the Lao People's Democratic Republic in 1997. We agree with
the Committee Advisory's March 5, 2003 statement soliciting comments
that ratification of the agreement ``will represent an important step
toward economic reform and openness, key U.S. priorities in Laos.''
As we noted in our third annual submission of recommendations to
the Executive and Legislative branches of the U.S. Government, the
importance of the ASEAN region to American political, economic and
security is increasing. US policy must continue to recognize our
growing interests in the region, and do more to expand our engagement
of ASEAN and its member nations. In our most recent paper of February,
2003 we specifically listed the establishment of NTR with Laos as an
achievable and important accomplishment for 2003.
We note with appreciation that the Administration is fully
supportive of NTR for Laos as the joint letter of February 24, 2003
from Secretary of State Colin Powell and United States Trade
Representative Robert Zoellick attests. Granting NTR to Laos would also
be a step forward to achieving the laudable goals set out by President
George Bush during the October 2002 APEC meeting in Los Cabos, Mexico.
At that meeting, President Bush announced the Enterprise for ASEAN
Initiative (EAI) and pledged to work with countries like Laos in their
quest to meet the requirements for WTO accession.
Laos is one of the poorest countries in the world, but thanks to
its lack of normal trading relations with the US is subject to the
highest average tariffs. According to an analysis by the Progressive
Policy Institute, Laos faces the highest average tariffs in the world
(45.3%), higher even than North Korea's (35 percent) and Yugoslavia's
(27.7 percent). Typical rates are 8-10 percent. Laos now exports
garments, gems and jewelry, agricultural products, hydro-electricity,
timber, labor and narcotics (illegally). As a matter of US national
interest, if we would like Laos to export less in the last three
categories, we have to help them export more in the first four.
Extending NTR is a key to achieving that goal.
The Lao Government is taking steps toward free market reforms.
Agreeing to the bilateral trade agreement with the United States in
1997 is certainly an important indication of a willingness to open the
country up to the outside world. We at the Council are fully aware that
trade agreements negotiated by the Executive Branch and approved,
hopefully, by the Congress are only the first stage of stronger and
mutually beneficial economic ties. It is imperative that the Government
of Laos provide American companies and their own state and private
enterprises with the legal framework and operational authority they
need to pursue successful trade and investments. Additionally, the Lao
Government needs to continue its commendable work on addressing POW/MIA
issues and stemming the flow of narcotics.
We commend you and the Committee for considering taking this long
overdue step to normalize economic relations between the United States
and Laos. We look forward to working with you to achieve this. Thank
you for your consideration.
Sincerely yours,
Ernest Z. Bower
President
cc The Hon. Colin Powell, US Department of State
The Hon. Robert Zoellick, Office of the US Trade Representative
The Hon. Douglas Hartwick, US Embassy--Vientiane
Attachment: Recommendations to the Bush Administration & 108th Congress
from the US ASEAN Business Council (Feb. 2003)
______
The ASEAN Region and its
Growing Importance to the United States
1101 17th Street NW
Suite 411 Washington, DC 20036
http://www.us-asean.org
US-ASEAN Business Council, Inc.
February, 2003
______
ASEAN's Growing Importance to the United States
February, 2003
OVERVIEW
Over the past two years, the United States Government has
significantly increased its engagement of ASEAN and its member nations
in Southeast Asia. But the importance of the region to American
political, economic and security interests is increasing--and there is
more to be done.
This paper identifies five major objectives that we believe are the
keys to advancing US interests in the region.
<bullet> LImplementation of US initiatives taken in 2002 to
strengthen its relations with the ASEAN region to include the
``Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative'' and the ``ASEAN Cooperation Plan''.
<bullet> LEstablishment of a regional security environment that
supports trade and investment flows and US access to ASEAN markets.
<bullet> LStrengthening of ASEAN economic growth through enhanced
regional integration.
<bullet> LEncouragement of economic, financial, regulatory and
judicial reforms in ASEAN.
<bullet> LIncreased Congressional awareness and engagement in the
region.
These major objectives are discussed in detail below and each is
supported by a set of specific recommendations.
While all of these objectives are not achievable in one year, we
believe that the following specific objectives can be accomplished in
2003.
A visit by President Bush to selected countries in the ASEAN region
and participation in APEC 2003 in Thailand that includes a separate
meeting with US companies active in the region.
<bullet> LCongressional passage of the US-Singapore Free Trade
Agreement.
<bullet> LThe start of negotiations of a US-Thailand Free Trade
Agreement.
<bullet> LCompletion of a US-Malaysia Trade and Investment
Facilitation Agreement (TIFA).
<bullet> LEstablishment of Normal Trading Relations with Laos.
<bullet> LCambodia accession to the World Trade Organization and
substantial progress on Vietnam's accession in 2004.
The Growing Importance of Southeast Asia:
ASEAN's importance to the United States reached historic levels
after the terrorist attacks of 2001. The region, which includes leading
moderate Islamic countries, was quick to join the worldwide war against
international terrorism and will continue to play an extremely
important role in the effort. Its leaders understand the need to fight
terrorism to achieve stability and economic growth, but will come under
increasing pressure in the coming year, particularly if there is more
terrorist related violence in the region. ASEAN will also be critical
to the achievement of secure trade--between ASEAN and the US and also
worldwide.
[GRAPHICS NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
Projections based on 11 months data
Source: U.S. Department of Commerce
The region will also play a critical role in helping strengthen the
US economy in 2003. Two-way trade between the US and ASEAN last year
totaled $120 billion, with US exports to the ASEAN region reaching $44
billion. US exports to ASEAN are more than twice as large as our
exports to China and ASEAN is America's fifth largest export market
(behind only Canada, the European Union, Mexico and Japan). Last year,
US direct investment in the five major ASEAN markets reached more than
$50 billion. This is five times US direct investment in China; larger
than our investment in markets such as Mexico and Brazil; and
comparable to our investments in Japan. American access to and
participation in ASEAN markets is therefore important to the economic
futures of both the US and Southeast Asia.
[GRAPHICS NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
Source: U.S. Department of Commerce
The political landscape in ASEAN has changed dramatically since the
late 1990s and national elections will soon be held in the Philippines,
Indonesia, Malaysia and possibly Singapore. In the run up to these
elections, we should expect increasingly nationalistic, protectionist
and perhaps even anti-American rhetoric. The challenge will be to keep
these developments in perspective and build strong relationships with
any new leaders that may emerge. It will also be important for the US
Government and private sector to reach out to the newly emerging
legislative branches in the region.
Finally, China's increased involvement in the region--and that of
Japan, Korea and Taiwan--has important implications for the US. Today,
ASEAN conducts annual Leaders Summits with China, Japan and Korea
(ASEAN +3) and has engaged in the third round of negotiations of a Free
Trade Agreement with China. American companies should benefit from
Asian economic integration, linking ASEAN's 550 million citizens with
1.3 billion Chinese. Adding Japan and Korea will create a market of
well over 2 billion people and an economy whose value would approach $5
trillion. It will be increasingly important for the US Government and
private sector to monitor these developments to ensure these efforts
are WTO consistent and include US and other foreign investors who will
provide the capital, technology and talent to fuel future growth.
Progress to Date:
The Bush Administration began to strengthen its engagement with
ASEAN prior to September 11, 2001. This point is critical, because it
represents early recognition of the importance of the region to US
national security on the merits of its economic partnership and its
role in the security and political balance in Asia. In the wake of 9/11
the importance of ASEAN to the US has grown, as has the
Administration's outreach to the region.
In October 2002, President Bush announced the ``Enterprise for
ASEAN Initiative'' (EAI), a far-reaching program of economic
cooperation under which the United States will open the door to
prospective free trade agreements with any interested ASEAN country. It
also provides for US support of Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam in meeting
the requirements for accession to the WTO.
Earlier in the year, Secretary of State Colin Powell proposed a
very proactive ``ASEAN Cooperation Plan'' (ACP) that involves a
comprehensive partnership between the US and ASEAN and its members in a
number of critical areas to include capacity building; human resource
development; and, the transfer of skills and technology.
The Administration has also proposed changes to the FY 2004
International Affairs Budget. Security Assistance is targeted for
countries supporting the United States war on terrorism. In addition,
it launches the Millennium Challenge Account which ties increased
development assistance to performance in areas to include improving
rule-of-law and implementing market reforms as well as fighting hunger
and aids and supporting social and economic development.
ASEAN has responded positively to the US on counter-terrorism
issues. On a regional basis, the ASEAN Leaders, at their annual meeting
in November 2002, renewed their earlier pledge to take cooperative
action against terrorism. This followed individual actions by several
ASEAN states that resulted in the arrest of several suspected
terrorists.
There have also been other US actions supporting increased
engagement with the region. For the past two years, Secretary of State
Powell has participated in the ASEAN Post Ministerial Conferences and
the ASEAN Regional Forum. US Trade Representative Zoellick has played a
leading and proactive role in promoting trade liberalization in the
region and in support of the US-Singapore Free Trade Agreement. He also
met twice with the ASEAN Economic Ministers, something that had not
been done for more than a decade. Finally, the US-ASEAN Dialogue was
conducted in Washington, DC in November 2001, the first time it had
been held in the US in several years.
ASEAN has also taken steps towards greater integration. With some
exceptions, the timetable for establishing an ASEAN Free Trade Area
(AFTA) has been observed. Tariffs have been reduced and customs
modernization is in progress. However, it is critical that progress on
implementing AFTA continues and that special attention be paid to
services and the need for food and agricultural regulatory
harmonization and consistency in the region.
An ASEAN Industrial Cooperation scheme is being implemented and the
framework for an ASEAN Investment Area (AIA) has been established.
However, ASEAN is losing the battle for new Foreign Direct Investment
(FDI) to China.
[GRAPHIC NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
To assist in countering this trend, ASEAN has commissioned a study
on ASEAN competitiveness. The study recommended the acceleration and
deepening of ASEAN economic integration. It also encouraged the ASEAN
countries to develop a stronger, more independent set of institutions
to drive integration.
Finally, economic growth in ASEAN has begun to rebound, despite the
continued downturn in the US economy, its principal market and trading
partner. Concurrently, there has been a slow down in the implementation
of the economic, fiscal, regulatory and other reforms promised during
the height of the Asian economic crisis.
Shared Goals--The US Government and Private Sector:
Enhanced US-ASEAN relations and continued American access to ASEAN
markets is a common goal of the US Government and the US private
sector. We believe that this goal is also shared by the members of
ASEAN, who see extensive benefits in US engagement in the region and
the presence of US companies.
The US government and private sector also share the goal of
maintaining a security environment in the region that supports the
global war on terrorism without impeding trade and investment flows.
This is not an issue of balance. Security and trade are mutually
reinforcing objectives and both are requisites for economic growth.
Given this interrelationship and the extensive two way trade between
the US and ASEAN, the goal of a secure regional environment that
facilitates the expansion of trade and investment is also shared by the
nations of Southeast Asia.
Finally, we believe that ASEAN economic growth, political stability
and social progress toward stable, free market democracies are also
goals shared by the US government and the US private sector. Economic
growth needs to be based on internal development at the national and
regional levels as well as through trade and foreign investment to
ensure that this growth continues over time.
Overarching Objectives and Supporting Recommendations:
While recognizing the progress that has been made in the past two
years, we believe that there is much more that the US Government and
the US private sector can do in partnership to achieve these shared
goals. Specific objectives and supporting recommendations are discussed
below.
LObjective #1: Implementation of the ``Enterprise for ASEAN
Initiative'' (EAI) and the ``ASEAN Cooperation Plan'' (ACP).
American credibility will be gauged by ASEAN in part by the
implementation of the U.S. initiatives that were announced last year.
Without clearly identified deliverables, America's recent gains in the
region may be challenged by the increased involvement of China, Japan
and other nations in the region. The converse is also true--
implementation and follow-through will enhance US engagement in the
region, strengthen US-ASEAN relations, and ensure closer cooperation by
the members of ASEAN.
Recommendation: Congress should approve the US-Singapore Free Trade
Agreement at the earliest possible date and on a bipartisan basis in
order to signal that the US wants liberalized trade regimes in Asia.
Recommendation: The USTR should begin negotiations of a US-Thailand
Free Trade Agreement (FTA). In support of this effort, the US and Thai
private sectors should work together to support and fund a joint study
on the benefits of a US-Thailand FTA. The US Government should also
support efforts in capacity building to help Thailand achieve the
resources necessary to negotiate and implement a comprehensive FTA.
Finally, in preparation for these discussions, the Thai Government
should be encouraged to implement promised improvements in intellectual
property right protection to include early passage of effective optical
media legislation.
Recommendation: Congress should approve Normal Trading Relations
(NTR) for Laos.
Recommendation: A US-Malaysia Trade and Investment Facilitation
Agreement (TIFA) should be concluded in accordance with the
``Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative''.
Recommendation: The US government should support Cambodian,
Vietnamese and Lao preparations for accession to the World Trade
Organization (WTO) through the use of US Technical Assistance Programs.
Recommendation: Indonesia and the Philippines should be added to
the list of countries eligible for participation in the Millennium
Challenge Account (MCA). The US Government should preserve its
flexibility in the use of MCA funds to ensure that they provide the
greatest advantage to the targeted countries as well as the US private
sector. The US private sector should assist in developing MCA programs
focused on rule-of-law and market reforms to be implemented in these
countries.
Recommendation: The US Government, World Bank, Asia Development
Bank and the US private sector should support and participate in
capacity building programs as provided for under the ``ASEAN
Cooperation Plan'' to include trade capacity building.
Recommendation: The US Secretary of State should again participate
in the ASEAN Post Ministerial Forum and ASEAN Regional Forum. He should
use this opportunity to announce specific deliverables supporting the
ASEAN Cooperation Plan.
Recommendation: The US-ASEAN Dialogue should be continued with US
participation at the Under Secretary level.
Recommendation: The US Trade Representative should again meet with
the ASEAN Economic Ministers with the objective of advancing progress
under the ``Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative''.
Recommendation: Humanitarian assistance and Peace Corps activities
in the region should be increased.
LObjective #2: Establish a Secure Regional Environment That Supports
Trade and Investment Flows.
Security, trade and economic growth are inextricably linked. The US
Government has recognized this linkage in announcing its ``Secure Trade
in the APEC Region (STAR)'' initiative. Since US-ASEAN two-way trade
totaled $120 billion last year, we believe that the importance of
``secure trade'' is especially important in the US-ASEAN context.
Recommendation: Cooperative action against terrorism is key to
achieving a secure regional environment and the US and ASEAN
governments should work together in achieving the dual objectives of
security and trade.
Recommendation: In promoting its STAR initiative, the US Government
should focus on gaining the support and involvement of the ASEAN
countries.
Recommendation: The US Government should increase its outreach to
the ASEAN countries on transportation security issues. This includes
increased dialogue and explanation of the US initiatives; i.e. the
Container Security Initiative (CSI), Port Security programs, C-TPAT,
etc.
Recommendation: US assistance to the ASEAN countries will also be
required in the areas of skill transfers, capacity building and
technology transfer as the ASEAN governments seek to address their
transportation security needs.
Recommendation: The US Government should encourage the ASEAN
governments to continue to work with industry to streamline customs
clearance procedures for cargo. New security measures should be
implemented in a way that does not impede the flow of goods.
Recommendation: Ensure that US visa and immigration policies are
implemented in a transparent manner and that clearance processes are
efficient and timely so as to not adversely affect tourism and the
movement of business persons. Congress should provide supplemental
funding for additional resources as necessary.
Recommendation: The Administration should ensure that State
Department Travel Advisories are not overly broad in their application
and unnecessarily impede business travel and US investment in the
region. Specifically, distinctions should be made between casual
travelers and business travelers. In addition, ASEAN governments should
be given clear guidelines and objectives to be met in order to have
these advisories lifted.
Recommendation: US technology licensing requirements and export
controls should be reviewed to ensure that they do not unnecessarily
impact US trade and investment.
Recommendation: Expansion of US Government engagement with ASEAN
security agencies and police forces to include the provision of
training and equipment as necessary.
Recommendation: Strengthen US-ASEAN military-to-military ties in
the region, to include increasing International Military Education and
Training (IMET) programs, as a means of addressing terrorism, piracy
and other security issues.
LObjective #3: Strengthen ASEAN Economic Growth Through Enhanced
Regional Integration.
ASEAN economic growth leading to stable, free market democracies is
a goal shared by the US Government and the US private sector. ASEAN has
also recognized the need for increasing regionalization if they are to
improve their economic growth rates, remain competitive in world
markets and be successful in attracting additional foreign investment.
Recommendation: The US Government should encourage ASEAN to
complete the establishment of the ASEAN Free Trade Area on schedule and
without derogation.
Recommendation: The US Government should support and encourage
ASEAN's customs modernization programs to include clarification and
standardization of rules of origin consistent with international
practices. Both the US Government and the US private sector should
support conferences and seminars on ``international best practices''.
Recommendation: ASEAN should also be encouraged to address non-
tariff barriers that impede regional integration and international
trade in areas such as food and agriculture policies and standards.
Recommendation: Appropriate US Government agencies should provide
technical support and training to ASEAN programs involving standards
and mutual recognition agreements as a means of speeding integration
and trade.
Recommendation: ASEAN and its member states should be encouraged to
provide a high standard of intellectual property right protection and
effective enforcement measures in order to alter the perception that
ASEAN countries are centers of piracy and counterfeiting and to advance
internal development as well as attract foreign direct investment.
Recommendation: The US Government should establish a good working
relationship with the ASEAN Secretary-General, strengthen its support
of the ASEAN Secretariat and recognize, encourage and support ASEAN
Ministerial initiatives.
LObjective #4: Encourage Economic, Financial and Other Reforms in
ASEAN.
In recent years, the members of ASEAN have committed to a series of
structural, economic, financial and regulatory reforms in response to
the Asian economic crisis and as a means of attracting foreign direct
investment. However, progress has been uneven and has fallen short of
expectations in several areas to include regulatory reform where the
lack of harmonized standards consistent with international standards
impede trade and investment in areas such as food and agriculture.
Finally, in some areas reforms have actually been reversed. It is
critically important for ASEAN to regain the momentum in this area if
it is to successfully face the challenges ahead.
Recommendation: The US Government should encourage the ASEAN
governments to follow through on promised structural, economic,
financial and regulatory reforms. In addition, they should be urged to
undertake judicial reforms as a means enhancing the rule of law and
eliminating corruption. US support should include visits by US
officials from appropriate US government agencies to discuss the
importance of such changes and to offer suggestions and assistance. The
US private sector can play a key role in support of such visits by
providing specific background information and recommendations to
advance such reforms to include regulatory regimes and standards.
Recommendation: Review US assistance programs with the objective of
increasing US support for these reforms through capacity building.
Specifically, US government support should include training as well as
technical and financial support.
Recommendation: The US Government should pursue bilateral ``open
sky agreements'' with those ASEAN governments interested in such
agreements for cargo and/or passenger traffic. In addition, US and
ASEAN leaders should study the feasibility and benefits of a ``regional
open sky arrangement'' that would greatly facilitate trade and
communications among ASEAN members.
Recommendation: The ASEAN governments should be encouraged to
return to private ownership those assets acquired by them during the
Asian economic crisis. This should be done expeditiously and in a fair
and transparent manner. In addition, they should be urged to avoid the
adoption of national policies that would restrict the ability of US
companies to invest in their countries. Specifically the ASEAN
Governments should be encouraged to liberalize their investment
policies to include eliminating or reducing limits on foreign
participation.
Recommendation: Intellectual property right legislation has been
pending in several ASEAN states to include Indonesia, the Philippines
and Thailand. These governments should be urged to expedite passage of
updated legislation that will afford a high level of intellectual
property protection.
Recommendation: The US Secretary of Energy should re-engage
Indonesia in a bilateral energy dialogue. Suspended during the economic
crises, these talks have provided a useful exchange between US and
Indonesian energy officials and the private sectors of the two
countries.
Recommendation: The US private sector, through the US-ASEAN
Business Council's Center for Technology Cooperation, should conduct
private sector seminars and training on customs reform, international
accounting standards, commodity trade rules, corporate governance,
biotechnology to include food and agriculture applications,
intellectual property right protection, regulatory reform, etc. US
government speakers should participate in these programs as appropriate
or they could be done in partnership under the auspices of the EAI or
ACP.
LObjective #5: Support the Expansion of Congressional Engagement in
ASEAN.
Congress has always had a key role in US security, trade and
economic policy. With the growing importance of the ASEAN region,
Congress can be expected to increase its involvement in the region. The
US private sector is supportive of that effort.
Recommendation: The US private sector supports the formation of
Congressional Caucuses for selected ASEAN countries and stands ready to
provide information and briefings as well as support hearings as
requested.
Recommendation: The members and staff of both the Senate and the
House of Representatives should increase their visits to the region
with the support of the US private sector.
Recommendation: APEC 2003 will be conducted in Thailand and members
of Congress and their staffs are encouraged to participate in this
important event.
Recommendation: Encourage, plan and implement visits to the US by
Legislative/ Parliamentary groups from ASEAN in recognition of the
growing importance of the legislative branches of government in
countries like the Philippines, Indonesia and Thailand.
Summary and Conclusions:
The Administration and Congress have made significant progress in
improving US engagement in Southeast Asia. This includes the passage of
Trade Promotion Authority, as well as the announcement of the
Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative and the ASEAN Cooperation Plan. This
foundation of US engagement with ASEAN provides an excellent basis to
address the growing challenges and opportunities ahead as American
security, political and economic interests in the region increase.
In this paper, the US-ASEAN Business Council has identified five
specific objectives and supporting recommendations on what the
Administration, Congress and the US private sector can do together.
We look forward to working with you on these issues in the coming
months.
<F-dash>
US-Lao Trading Corporation
San Pablo, California 94806
April 7, 2003
The Honorable Congressman Phillip M. Crane
Chairman of Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
US House of Represenatives
Washington, DC
Dear Honorable Chairman
As a Laotian-American businessman, I am writing to support the US
NTR for Laos. I am interested in the business opportunities between the
two countries.
I am currently engaging in the retail businesses that import many
commodities from the Souhteast Asian countries. The extension of NTR to
Laos will provide more business opportunities to many American
businesses and to create more jobs.
Best Regards,
Gary Tatpaporn
President US-Lao Trading Corporation
<F-dash>
Silver Spring, Maryland 20906
Dear Honorable:
I am Daungyewa Utarasint, a U.S. citizen who live on 2301 Glenallan
Ave, Apt 611, Silver Spring, MD 20906. I wholeheartedly support the
position taken by the Bush Administration on the issue of US Normal
Trade Relation (NTR) for Laos because I believe that NTR would not only
bring the well-being to people in both countries, but also promote more
democratic governance in Laos.
US NTR will bring about prosperity to both Laotian and the American
peoples. For Laotians, it will open up many new economic opportunities
to tens of thousands of Laotian workers who are hard working and
deserving of a better life but lack employment opportunities. NTR will
provide Laotians exposure to the world, higher living standards as
villages are more able to sell food and traditional products, probably
some international investment, some more ability for the Hmong and Lao
community in the United States to see families and to bring their
experience in business.
For Americans, NTR would bring benefits to American consumers. As
NTR allows Laos to export more products into the United States,
American consumers would be able to buy unique Laos?products such as
hand-made textile, coffee, silk and handicraft at affordable prices;
therefore NTR for Laos could also contribute in improving American
people's life too. Moreover, since NTR provide the basis for trade and
investment, it would contribute to developing emerging private sector
and investment in Laos, the American companies would be able to sell
more goods and services in Laos once the buying power of people and
investors has been raised to a certain level. Particularly, if
investment in mining and hydropower sectors has increase it will!
provide export opportunity to American companies, which manufacture
heavy equipment or if tourism sector in Laos has increase, the window
of opportunity of exporting aircrafts of U.S. aircraft manufactures
will be open wider.
As an American citizen, I believe that it is morally wrong for the
U.S. to single out poor little Laos (the poorest and least known, and
most often forgotten victim of the Vietnam War) for harsher treatment/
judgment on NTR issue while the U.S. continues to cater to Laos' much
larger neighbors such as Vietnam and China whose political system is no
more ``perfect,'' by U.S. standards, than that of Laos. Yes, Laos needs
more reform on all fronts (but so do China and Vietnam).
Therefore, I request that the U.S. Congress ratify a trade
agreement that has been waiting for five years and grant NTR to Laos.
If you have any questions, I can be contaced by e-mail at
GinHong@aol.com. My Work phone: (301) 926-9199
Sincerrly,
Daungyewa Utarasint
<F-dash>
North Saint Paul, Minnesota 66109
April 15, 2003
To:
Honorable Charles Grassley, Chairman, Committee on Finance, United
State Senate.
Honorable William M. Thomas, Chairman, committee on Ways and Means.
Honorable Philip M. Crane, Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade of Ways and
Means Committee.
Honorable,
As an American Citizen, I am asking for your support for granting
normal trade relation status to the Lao People's Democratic Republic,
Laos is landlocked country, unlike other nations in Southeast Asian,
that has access to the sea to better economic.
Therefore, I totally support the joint proposal of Honorable Colin
L. Powell, Secretary of State and Honorable Robert B. Zoellick, US
Trade Representative, for granting the Permanent Normal Trade Relations
to the Lao People's Democratic Republic.
The Lao People's Democratic Republic is the only country in
Southeast Asian that has not got such facility yet although its
Politico-Social situations are far better than others.
I would appreciate if you could take the said proposal and my noble
with in consideration and render to Laos the fairness and real touch of
the United States generosity.
It is my sincere hope that you will support the said proposal and
help granting Normal Trade Relation to Laos.
Sincerely yours,
Tsuchue P. Vang
<F-dash>
General Assembly of Delegates of Lations Abroad
Scottsdale, Arizona 85258
United Lao Action Center
Sterling, Virginia 20164
April 15, 2003
The Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
U.S. House of Representatives
233 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Lao-American Opposition to
NTR for Lao People's Democratic Republic
Dear Congressman Crane:
It has come to our knowledge that our government is once again
seeking Congressional legislation to grant favored status of normal
trade relations (NTR) to the Lao People's Democratic Republic (LPDR),
one of a few remaining communist regimes in the world. As Lao
Americans, we are disturbed by this prospect.
As taxpayers and constituents, we are deeply concerned about any
haste to approve it without an adequate debate involving the Lao
American community as a whole. We are worried that it might end up
taxing Americans to reward a brutal Stalinist state.
In its Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, the State
Department itself chronicles the LPDR government's perennial poor
record on human rights. They continue to restrict freedom of speech,
the press, assembly and association. Citizens do not have the right to
change their government. Police uses arbitrary arrest, lengthy
detention without charge, and surveillance. Prisoners are abused and
tortured, and prison conditions generally are extremely harsh and life
threatening.
In addition, the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom
Report of the Department has noted that while the Constitution of the
LPDR provides for freedom of religion the government restricts this
right in practice. In February 2002, a fact-finding delegation of the
Commission found that the LPDR government 'continues to engage in
particularly severe religious freedom violations' including arrest,
prolonged detention, and imprisonment. In addition, Lao officials have
forced Christians to renounce their faith. Churches have been closed
and remains closed. In its latest report issued in February 2003, the
Commission recommends that the LPDR be designated as a `country of
particular concern' (CPC).
Sir, Lao Americans do not object to free trade and NTR per se. On
the contrary, as people who sought and found freedom in America and
have seen how it has miraculously transformed and elevated our very own
economic condition, we would be the first to promote and defend free
trade. But NTR is not a key that fits every lock. It has to be geared
to the specific needs and conditions of a country, particularly where
political dictates do not allow the full free flow of economic forces.
We believe in fact that NTR could play a key role in generating
economic growth for Laos. But we also believe that to hand it over to
the LPDR at this point without a more methodical study and thorough
broad-based discussion would be premature, ineffective and
counterproductive. Fundamental questions raise doubts in the minds of a
great many Lao Americans about the benefits of NTR. These are:
What's in the deal?
The Lao American community, at the grass-root as well as leadership
levels, has not been given any real opportunity to contribute our views
on the particular NTR package that is being earmarked for the LPDR. We
don't have the text of the protocol and we don't know the details of
its content. How can we be expected to address it properly?
LWhat are we, American taxpayers, being asked to give away to the
communist regime in Laos?
We understand that NTR will mean reduced U.S. duties on imports
from LPDR, in other words foregone revenues, which will need to be
redeemed by increased internal taxation. Are we also to make financial
concessions as part of the NTR package? Lao American taxpayers are
anxious and prepared to help our families and friends in Laos escape
the scourge of mass poverty. But we need to know up front the magnitude
of our tax dollars to be given up and the extent to which the people of
Laos will actually benefit from NTR under the current political system.
What are the expected reciprocal benefits of NTR to the U.S.?
Not much economically or financially. Laos is not China or even
Vietnam. Given its small population and limited purchasing power, the
opening up of the Lao market will have negligible impact on either U.S.
export income or employment. Similarly, opportunities for U.S. firms to
invest in the LPDR are limited by a basic lack of physical and human
infrastructure in all sectors: production, distribution, banking,
marketing, legal and others. Have we secured the LPDR's enforceable
commitments to protect U.S. commercial and investment interests? Have
they promulgated any specific laws covering these areas?
What is the likelihood of NTR attaining its political objectives?
As we understand it, the Administration believes that NTR, as an
`engagement' policy instrument, will facilitate the resolution of the
MIA issue. Lao Americans couldn't agree more with this noble cause.
Thousands of our fellow Laotians, police and military officers, civil
servants, and ordinary citizens, are also among the MIA's and
unaccounted for. To this day, the Vientiane government still has not
returned the remains of the King, the Queen and the Crown Prince to the
Lao Royal Family for a proper burial in accordance with our tradition.
But, we don't believe NTR by itself will do a complete job in a
timely manner. What is to guarantee that any cooperation by the LPDR
government on the issue of MIA's will not cease after the passing of
NTR? Are there specific written agreements linking the granting or
extending of NTR to their performance on MIA's? Is a monitoring process
of this performance is place? Can we immediately and unconditionally
withdraw NTR in the event of unsatisfactory MIA performance?
In the long run, the Administration believes that NTR will promote
political reform and change towards democracy in the LPDR. What is the
basis for this belief? How does the process work? Do we have an actual
blueprint to ensure that it will work? It is hard for us to envisage
that an economic tool can bring about a change of the political system.
Historically, as the recent experience of East Europe has shown,
democratization brings economic progress, not the other way around, and
quicker too.
LAre there specific written agreements linking the granting of NTR to
the grave problem of human rights violations and religious
persecution of Christians and other minority religions in the
LPDR?
The Lao American community is deeply concerned about the situation
in the Lao PDR relating to the abuses of human rights and religious
freedom. We firmly believe that NTR should be used as a leverage to
help redress those issues. At the very least, we must obtain concrete
commitments up front by the LPDR government to initiate and institute
reforms in these areas prior to granting NTR. Again, a monitoring
system should be established to verify compliance with those
commitments after NTR has been granted.
Why the haste to grant NTR?
Sir, the questions outlined above weigh heavily in the minds of Lao
Americans. We believe they are legitimate questions of real concern to
all sides including Laotians in Laos, Lao Americans, the
Administration, and the U.S. Congress, who value democracy and share a
common vision of Laos as a free and prosperous nation. It is precisely
because we recognize the potential contribution of free trade to the
realization of this vision that we believe we should take the time
necessary to consider the complex issue of NTR in greater depth and
within a broader participatory framework in order to find ways and
means to enhance and ensure its effectiveness in achieving its
objectives.
To this end, we are appealing to you, your good offices and your
Subcommittee on Trade to consider deferring any legislative action on
the issue of NTR for the Lao PDR. This will give us an opportunity for
discussing it on a multi-sided inter-disciplinary basis which will lead
to an NTR package that is mutually satisfactory to all concerned. For
your reference, I am enclosing a document containing our views in
greater detail plus the profiles of the two organizations I represent.
Please accept our deepest appreciation for your attention and
consideration.
Respectfully:
Sin Vilay
Under-Secretary
General Assembly of Delegates of Laotians Abroad
Executive Director
United Lao Action Center
______
THE CASE AGAINST GRANTING
NORMALIZED TRADE RELATIONS (NTR)
TO THE LAO PEOPLE'S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC (LPDR)
Many Lao-Americans, individuals and organizations who are working
to promote human rights, freedom and democracy for Laos, firmly believe
that unless all the necessary economic and political preconditions are
met the granting of favored trade status to the LPDR will not
effectively foster economic growth for Laos. Certainly, in the context
of the current political regime and of the mindset and practices of
those in control, it will not benefit the people of Laos. On the
contrary, it is very likely to prove counter-productive.
We are given to understand by the policy of 'engagement' that if
the communist oligarchs in Vientiane are treated reasonably they will
behave reasonably. Hence, as the policy assumption goes, if we grant
them NTR they will think about changing their political system towards
a more democratic one. This idea is regarded as unrealistic at best by
Lao-Americans. The experience of granting NTR to a number of countries
in Asia has not shown any major change in the oppressive political
system in those countries. Nor is there any evidence that their peoples
have benefited from NTR. The government and those who run it may
benefit. But not the people.
We are deeply concerned that, because of the lack of decision-
making power of the people, any monetary gains in increased export
earnings due to the opening up of the U.S. market and financial
concessions as a result of NTR will go to reinforce the hands of the
Lao communist party in repressing any opposition and keeping the
population in check.
A number of fundamental questions relating to the issue of NTR for
the LPDR remain unanswered in the minds of Lao-Americans, namely but
not exhaustively:
1. LReducing or eliminating import tariffs in favor of the LPDR is
not without a cost. It means a reduction in revenue to our Government
which in turn entails cuts in our public services and/or increases in
our personal and other taxes. Either way, Lao-Americans as citizens and
taxpayers are affected. For this reason and the fact that we have a
direct interest in the well-being of our families and friends in Laos,
we are concerned that we have had no significant part in the official
discussion of this important issue. In particular, we feel that there
is a need to determine that the return is worth the cost. We need to
ensure that we can enforce mechanisms which will guarantee that the
benefits of external free trade will go to the people.
2. LWe have learned of our Government's policy of 'engagement' to
entice political change in LPDR through economic concessions. But it is
not clear exactly as to how this would work. If we are to support such
a policy, it is only rational that we should know what its goals and
objectives are. At the end of the road, what do we stand to gain? The
end of human rights abuses, of religious persecution, and other
injustices? Beginning of the rule of law, free elections and democracy?
By when? What if engagement does not work or takes too long to work?
3. LExternal free trade works on the basis of free market forces
that are unfettered by tariffs and other barriers. By the same token,
it will not work without a free domestic economy. NTR will not yield
its benefits as intended as long as economic decisions are dictated by
political motivations whereby producers are not free to choose what,
how, when and where to produce. The most overlooked and yet critical
problem is the government's restriction of the flow of information
including economic information, a necessary condition for market forces
to work.
4. LThe fundamental problem of the Lao economy does not lie on the
demand side. It is not so much a question of restricted foreign markets
for Lao exports. It is a question of producing and exporting the
products in which Laos has comparative advantage and which meet with
the quality and standards required by world markets.
5. LThe basic economic problem of the LPDR rests with the supply
side. Other than the natural constraint of being landlocked, the
economy suffers from lack of physical, institutional and human
infrastructure in all sectors (transport, distribution, banking,
marketing, legal). It is shackled by a political system that is
obsolete and a drag on growth, by a climate of lawlessness and
arbitrary practices which further deter direct private investment,
domestic and foreign. The productive process is corroded by
mismanagement and corruption and handicapped by a dire lack of
competent, qualified and skilled human resources.
6. LThere are potential dangers of granting NTR without safeguards
and guarantees that are unconditionally and immediately enforceable.
What mechanisms can be built in to ensure that the LPDR government will
not `tax' any increased export earnings and use it for such political
purposes as paying the salaries of government workers and soldiers and
financing other control apparatus? How to prevent other leakages
through the abuse and violation of the rules of origin? Given that Laos
is landlocked and exports have to pass through neighbors and given the
proclivity for corruption, what is there to guarantee that foreign
products will not be labeled as exports from Laos destined for free US
markets?
7. LTo place total focus on NTR as the singular solution is to
oversimplify the Laos problem. It not only misses the mark but could
backfire and prove costly. In the considered view of many Lao-
Americans, besides NTR's role as a money maker the LPDR leadership
places a high premium on it as a symbolic triumph which will prop up
their sagging credibility with the people. Once it is granted, they
will showcase it as an affirmation of their regime. For Laotians in the
free world and other freedom-loving people, it is tantamount to
rewarding dictatorship and oppression. If it is misapplied, it could
end up, as Congressman Dana Rohrabacher has succinctly put it, ``taxing
Americans to pay a communist regime''. NTR carries with it a
substantial opportunity cost. Once squandered, it not only loses its
own leverage but will also limit other policy tools. Nor is it a
tenable argument to say that NTR can always be taken back if the LPDR
does not `behave'. Such an option is a non-starter from the PR point of
view. The US will be portrayed as the heartless rich walking out on the
poverty-stricken people of Laos. Besides, by the time we decide to
withdraw it, the LPDR will already have made political and monetary
mileage out of it.
Lao-Americans see NTR as a key policy instrument in promoting
political change in the LPDR. The communist leadership will have to
earn it, by making a real change in attitude, behavior and practice,
not just paper policy and lip service to donors. It does not make sense
to just give it to them and sit back and hope. For lack of a better
analogy, the idea is to dangle the carrot before the donkey, not to put
it in its mouth and then expect it to do what we want. Moreover, the
carrot alone will not do the job. We would also need the stick, like
sanctions, reduction, suspension or cessation of bilateral and
multilateral financial flows into the LPDR. This would pressure the
communist leadership which, as we know, is already politically strapped
for cash, into thinking and making change.
In sum, relying solely NTR as an agent of change will at best yield
trickle-down economics, and, worse, trickle-down democracy. It is
simply too little and too long to help millions of our fellow Laotians
who have endured dire economic and political deprivations for almost
three decades now. NTR cannot be viewed in isolation by ignoring the
political conditions in the LPDR. And if it is to be applied under the
current system, it has every chance to fail.
NTR must be considered within the framework of an overall economic
and political development which is conducive to the free play of market
forces. The collapse of the Soviet system and the experience of the
countries in East Europe after that collapse shows that democratization
leads to the maximization of benefits from free trade, not the other
way around.
Until it is recognized that the existing political system in the
LPDR has not just failed to develop the Lao economy but is one of the
root causes, throwing NTR at the problem will be a costly waste. There
is a real need to recognize this and to start working towards real
change. Engagement could be useful if it works both ways. There is an
opportunity here for the State Department to use its influence to get
the LPDR to engage overseas Laotians under State's own auspices or
under joint sponsorship of the relevant international agencies.
It will of course involve a long and complex process. But it can
start from a few simplified pragmatic steps. If the objective of
engagement is to change their perception and attitude, why not, as a
starter, consider a program of forums, seminars, or workshops sponsored
and organized by the U. S. and other governments in the free world in
which all sides will participate to exchange ideas and discuss
development issues of Laos. These will take place in the United States
and other parts of the world which will give LPDR leaders and
administrators an opportunity to see for themselves how political and
economic freedoms have lifted overseas Laotians to the highest
standards of living in the world. At the same time, they will see that
most of the half-million Laotians overseas have no desire for political
power in Laos and that their collective intention is to be able to lend
their substantial multi-faceted knowledge and skills to systematically
rebuild Laos and help their fellow Laotians escape the ravages of
poverty.
For these reasons, we the under-signed Lao-Americans respectfully
urge the Administration and the Congress to put a freeze on the
approval of NTR for the Lao People's Democratic Republic until such
time as it can be ascertained and verified that its government as a
sign of good faith has taken specific, concrete and significant steps
to redress the human rights situation and religious persecution and to
institute real change towards openness, transparency, marketization and
democratization.
Respectfully at your disposal:
United Lao Action Center
U.L.A.C.
E-Mail: bm2b@yahoo.com lukxay@cs.com
Fax: 509-753-6680 630-839-3312
______
GENERAL ASSEMBLY DELEGATES OF LAOTIANS ABROAD, USA
Phone: 602-499-5285 Fax: 630-839-3312 Email: WteParasol@cs.com
PROFILE
This Organization was established to support and assist the Royal
Institution of Million Elephants and White Parasol (Rasavong Lanxang
Homkhao) in its quest to restore freedom and democracy to Laos.
The Assembly which operates in the United States, Europe, Australia
and Oceania and Canada serves as a forum for Laotians worldwide,
individuals and associated groups alike, to discuss issues and exchange
ideas relating to the Laos problem. It meets periodically in different
countries to raise awareness about the political and economic plight of
the people of Laos and to forge a unified approach to policies which
could find wide support among the world community, including in
particular the United Nations, the European Parliament and the US
Government.
While we are concerned about the long-standing issues of human
rights, justice, the rule of law, freedom of expression, freedom of
religion and other basic freedoms and civic rights, we do not believe
in recriminations. Our focus is positive, constructive and forward-
looking. We firmly believe, however, that there can be no prosperity
without freedom, as demonstrated by the demise of the communist system
worldwide. The stagnation of the economy in Laos over the last quarter-
century which ended up placing it on the World Bank's list of least
developed countries was due in large part to the lack of a free market
system based on a democratic foundation.
With mutual understanding and recognition of the root causes of the
country's current problems, we believe that all the Laotian people,
together, can bring about political and economic change which will
return Laos to a free and open system. Billions of dollars in
development aid have been futile without the necessary qualified human
resources to implement programs and projects. Half a million Laotians
abroad who have acquired more than a quarter-century of precious
knowledge, skill, experience, and technical know-how in all sectors of
the economy can fill this gap. In this framework, we can hope to
rebuild and develop the Lao nation, to deliver it from mass poverty,
and to lay the foundation for a secure and prosperous future to the
benefit of all Laotians.
______
UNITED LAO ACTION CENTER
U.L.A.C.
PROFILE
In October, 2003, some twenty Lao Organizations from different
countries in the free world came together at the ``International Policy
Conference on Democracy and Development for Laos", in Washington, DC.
Their main aim was to join hands and co-ordinate their efforts to
restore freedom and democracy to Laos.
They achieved a complete unity at the Conference and unanimously
adopted a collective Plan of Action relating to the Laos problem
focusing on three sectors: human rights and free elections; economic
development; and political development. Three corresponding Action
Groups, consisting of representatives from the participant
Organizations, were established to implement the Plan.
In order to co-ordinate the activities of the Action Groups, an
operational center was set up to be located in Washington, DC. It is
called the ``United Lao Action Center'' or ULAC.
ULAC's principal mission is to help promote overall unity among all
the Lao Organizations in the free world. Its functions are:
<bullet> Lto strengthen and expand the basis of unity already
achieved by the Conference;
<bullet> Lto facilitate the efforts of all Lao Organizations in
conducting work in the United States, particularly in the Washington,
DC area;
<bullet> Lto establish contacts and working relationships with US
government agencies, international agencies, NGO's, and other allied
democracy organizations;
<bullet> Lto raise, maintain and enhance world awareness about the
issues of Laos through research and analysis for radio/TV broadcasts
and outlets, press/news releases, bulletins, communiques, official
correspondences, position papers and others;
<bullet> Lto provide logistical, operational and organizational
services as well as substantive support and assistance to all Lao
Organizations as appropriate e.g. scheduling appointments, arranging
meetings, conferences and other events, maintaining a data base,
enabling use of office facilities and others.
It is hoped that those of us, Laotians overseas, who value freedom
and democracy and who feel the misery of millions of our brothers and
sisters who are suffering in abject poverty under tyranny in the Lao
PDR, will join ULAC to do our part in finding constructive and peaceful
ways and means to lift them from that dark abyss.
Contact: E-Mail: bm2b@yahoo.com lukxay@cs.com manisinh@hotmail.com
Fax: 509-753-6680 630-839-3312
<F-dash>
Village Focus International
Portland, Oregon 97204
20 April 2003
hearingclerks.waysandmeans@mail.house.gov
Fax 001-202-225-2610
The Honorable
Congressman Philip M. Crane, Chairman,
Committee on Ways and Means,
House of Representatives.
Dear Mr. Chairman:
We, the Lao and American staff of Village Focus International, an
American based non-governmental organization working in Lao PDR, seek
your support for extension of normal trade relations (NTR) to Lao PDR
and to bring into force the comprehensive Bilateral Trade Agreement
(BTA) agreed to between the United States (US) and Lao PDR in 1997.
Representing hundreds of households in the communities where we work
and supporters and donors in the US, we urge you to submit the BTA to
Congress for prompt consideration and passage to enable the US
Administration to bring the Agreement into force to enable individuals
and businesses in both countries to benefit greatly from the NTR.
As you know, Laos is one of only seven countries under non-NTR or
embargo-type policies in US foreign policy, along with Iraq, Libya and
others. Moreover, the denial of NTR to Laos in light of normal trade
relations recently granted to Vietnam and Cambodia makes little sense,
especially since the US Government has kept continuous diplomatic
relations with Lao PDR when such relations were severed with Vietnam
and Cambodia after 1975. Ratification of the BTA forms part of
President George Bush's trade agenda. President Bush recently cited Lao
PDR as one of the countries included in the Enterprise for ASEAN
Initiative, with the aim of helping Lao PDR, Cambodia and Vietnam
integrate into the international economy. Lao PDR began economic reform
in 1986 under the ``new economic mechanism,'' and has become more
integrated with its neighbors since joining ASEAN in 1997 and
negotiating membership into WTO. Under recent ASEAN agreements, Lao PDR
will reduce all tariffs to a minimum of 5% by 2005 and eliminate them
by 2010. Moreover, bilateral efforts between the US and Lao PDR to
address POW/MIA issues and stem the flow of narcotics continue to be
productive.
We are mindful that trade agreements negotiated by the Executive
Branch and approved by Congress are only the first stage of stronger
and mutually beneficial economic ties. It is incumbent upon the
government of Laos to provide American companies and their own state
and private enterprises with the legal framework and operational
authority they need to pursue successful trade and investments. It is
time to remove discriminatory tariff barriers and to take this last
major step for the normalization of the relations. We look forward to
working with you to achieve this. Thank you for your consideration.
Regards,
Todd Sigaty
Co-Founder and Executive Director, Village Focus International
Rick Reece
Co-Founder and SE Asian Program Director, Village Focus
International
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Stockholm, Sweden
16 April 2003
U.S House of Representative
Washington D.C. 20515.U.S.A.
Dear Sirs,
With reference to the letter of State Secretary,Colin L. Powell and
Robert B. Zoellick, US Trade Representative to the Chairman, Committee
on the Finance, E. Grassley and William M. Thomas, Chairman, Committee
on Ways and Means on the 24th Febuary, 2003, concerning the agreement
on Permanent Normal Trade Relations Status to the Lao Peoples
Democratic Republic (LPDR). This significant agreement is giving the
way to the free trade exchange between the two countries. It means that
the American bussiness men can go to Laos for investment or doing
bussiness in Laos and the Laos people can sell their products to
America without tariff barrier on trade. After 27 years of National
liberation, Laos is developing towards democray and political
stability. The human rigths situation is improving and economy is
growing the people living standard is much better now than 20 years
ago. In 1986, the Lao Peoples Democratic Republic has introduced the
Open Market Economy's policy. Since then, foreign investment has been
increased and Laos economy is expanding. It is of a great responsility
for a big nation such as U.S.A. to grant Nomalized Trade Relations to
the Lao Peoples Democratic Republic in according to the agreement of
the Government in both countries.
Sunthorn Vongnongvar
<F-dash>
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 29928
Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman
Subcommittee on Trade
Ways and Means Committee
House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Fax: 202-225-2610
Dear Chairman Crane,
This is to encourage your committee to extend Normal Trade
Relations status to Laos.
I do not know much about trade relation agreements, but I am
interested in any attempt to better the lives of people in that
country. The Laotians have certainly suffered at our hands during the
long Vietnam War. The people are industrious and if normalizing trade
relations is needed to make their goods competitive with those of their
neighbors Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam, I urge you to extend those
relations.
Thank you,
Julia H. Weidman
Just an interested citizen.
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
WILKRIS & CO AB
Stockholm, Sweden
April 16, 2003
The Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman
Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
U.S.A
Dear Chairman Crane,
On behalf of WILKRIS & CO AB, a company doing business in the ASEAN
countries and China, I am writing to express my support for the
extension of normal trade relations (NTR) to Laos.
A Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) was negociated in 1997 between
the United States and the Lao People's Democratic Republic but was
never ratified by the Congress nor signed by the Administration.
The ratification of the Agreement forms part of President Bush's
trade agenda and represents an important step in bringing Laos'
integration into the international world economy and new market
economic reform.
Laos is the only remaining country in Southeast Asia without NTR.
The fact that NTR have been granted to Vietnam and Cambodia can only
give more support toward the normalization of trade relations with Lao
PDR.
On February 24, 2003 US Trade Representative Robert Zoellick and
Secretary of State Colin Powell were very supportive towards the
normalisation of trading relations between the United States and Lao
PDR by sending an official request to the Congress to grant NTR to
Laos.
Laos has maintained unbroken diplomatic relations with the United
States since 1955.Laos has always cooperated in issues such as counter-
narcotics, counter-terrorism, POW/MIA accounting.
Laos is rated as one of the poorest developping countries in the
world but due to the discriminatory tariff barriers with the United
States they are subject to the highest average tariffs.
Granting NTR to Laos can only bring fairness and mutual benefits to
the United States and Lao PDR. Furthermore it will even help to achieve
other key priorities beyond the trade and investment relations:
commercial and environmental law, tourism, anti-narcotics cooperation,
POW/MIA recovery, economic assistance to small and medium business,
human rights, etc.
As you know, Lao PDR has joined ASEAN since 1997 and is working
very hard to meet the requirement for WTO in the near future. It is in
the interest of the United States to assist Laos to be part of the
network of free bilateral trade agreements.
Myself I have led and coordinated last month a high level swedish
trade and investment delegation visit to Laos and we can assure you
they are open to business and the outside world. The granting of NTR to
Laos is the natural step.
Dear Chairman,
It is high time for this Committee to consider the normalisation of
trading relations between the United States and Laos and we urge you to
submit this BTA to the Congress for prompt consideration and passage. I
am aware that this is the first step to new opportunities and promising
bilateral relationship.
Thank you for your consideration.
Truly yours,
Willy Hsieh
Managing Director
WILKRIS & CO AB
<F-dash>
Wisconsin Lao Veterans of America, Inc.
Menomonie WI 54751
April 11, 2003
The Honorable Philip M. Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
and the Honorable Sander M. Levin
Ranking Member of the Subcommittee
All Members of the Committee on Ways and Means
and all Members of the U.S. Congress
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Chairman Crane and Ranking Member Levin, and all Members of
the U.S. Congress:
We would like to request that you include the following statement
in the printed record of the written comments on NTR to the LPDR.
The Wisconsin Lao Veterans of America, Inc., has more than 2,000
members who are former CIA soldiers during the Vietnam War. We would
like to request you and other Members of the U.S. Congress to oppose
and to reject the proposal on Normal Trade Relations (NTR) for the
communist Lao government of the Lao People's Democratic Republic (LPDR)
because of the following reasons:
<bullet> LThe communist Lao government of the LPDR and communist
Vietnamese government have killed ``over 300,000 people in Laos'' from
1975 to 2003 because of the legacy of Hmong-U.S. government connections
and relations during the Vietnam War. Of this figure, about 46,000
victims were former CIA soldiers and their family members, officials
under the Royal Lao government and their associates (Sources: Reports
from Mr. Yang Toua Thao and Moua Toua Ter in Laos on March 14, 2003).
<bullet> LThe communist Lao government of the LPDR and communist
Vietnamese government of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam have used
``biological and chemical weapons'' to kill many thousands of Hmong and
Lao people and former CIA soldiers in Laos since 1975 until today in
2003.
<bullet> LThe communist Lao government of the LPDR has committed
``war crimes, crimes against peace and crimes against humanity'' in
Laos.
<bullet> LThe Voice of America (VOA) and Radio Free Asia reported
on March 25, 2003 that more than 10,000 people demonstrated in
Vientiane, Laos, on March 23, 2003 against the United States because
the U.S. government sent troops to attack the Saddam Hussein government
in Iraq. The Ambassador of the LPDR to Thailand, Hiem Phommachanh, also
stated that the U.S. policy toward Iraq is a violation of the Charter
of the United Nations and international law. As a result, the communist
Lao government of the LPDR supported the Saddam Hussein government and
international terrorism against the United States and other nations in
the world.
As a result, the U.S. Congress, the White House and the U.S.
Department of State must not reward NTR to the communist Lao government
of the LPDR because this communist government is the ``enemy'' of the
United States and the enemy of peace, freedom, democracy, justice,
liberty, and human rights.
Therefore, we the members of Wisconsin Lao Veterans of America,
Inc., urge and request the U.S. Congress to oppose and reject the
proposal of NTR to the communist Lao government of LPDR.
Therefore, we the members of Wisconsin Lao Veterans of America,
Inc. would like to request the U.S. government:
<bullet> Lto send international inspectors to investigate and to
stop the use of biological and chemical weapons against Hmong and Lao
people and former CIA soldiers in the Xaisomboun Special Region and
many other provinces in Laos.
<bullet> Lto urge the communist Lao government and communist
Vietnamese government to stop the ``ethnic cleansing war, genocide and
biological and chemical warfare'' against former CIA soldiers and other
Hmong and Lao people in Laos.
<bullet> Lto bring a true peace, freedom, democracy and human
rights to people in Laos.
<bullet> Lto bring food, medicine and other basic human needs to
save the lives of former CIA soldiers and other Hmong and Lao people in
the Xaisomboun Special Region and other provinces in Laos.
<bullet> Lto call upon the governments which signed the Paris Peace
Agreements on Indochina on March 2, 1973, to stop the war in Laos and
to bring a true peace to Laos as soon as possible.
This is not the right time for the U.S. government to reward NTR to
the terrorist communist Lao government of the LPDR. This is the time
for the U.S. government to take action to demand that the communist Lao
government of the LPDR must immediately stop the biological and
chemical warfare and ethnic cleansing war and genocide against former
CIA soldiers and other Hmong and Lao people in Laos.
Thank you very much for your consideration of the above peace
proposals for Laos.
Sincerely,
Former LT. Pang Blia Vang
President
Wisconsin Lao Veterans of America, Inc.
<F-dash>
Womens' International League for Peace and Freedom
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19170
Herewith is a statement in support of Normal Trade Relations with
Laos submitted by the Womens' International League for Peace and
Freedom.
Our organization is an international organization with branches in
37 countries. In the United States our Asia Pacific Commission has
worked with the women of Southeast Asia. including the women of Laos.
We have visited the Womens' Union and not only have we had lengthy
discussions at their offices in Vientiane, but we have seen their work
in Luang Prabang and in villages in the mountains beyond. Their goal is
to improve the working conditions of women, their health and welfare,
concern for their education and that of the children, and general
economic betterment. In spite of very limited support from the
government, progress is being made. An improvement in the overall
economy would greatly advance their work; and while the ``filter down''
process is often slow, it can be accelerated.
In discussions of such topics as making permanent the trade
relations with Laos, the manner of presentation if often technical and
abstract, ignoring the women are the base of the economic pyramid. It
is the women who work to support families, to care for children and
provide unity and stability in the community. While there are
compelling arguments, historiccal, political and diplomatic for
permanent normalization of trade relations with Laos, it is with
particular concern for the women of Laos, the foundation of the
society, that we strongly support this measure.
Madeline Duckles
Asia Pacific Commission
Mary Day Kent
Executive Director
Womens' International League for Peace and Freedom
<F-dash>
Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17603
Dear Committee Member,
I am writing to you urge the passage of permanent normal trade
relations with Laos. I am encouraged by news of human rights progress
in Laos and believe passage will benefit both the US and Laos. Thank
you
David R. Workman, Esq.
<F-dash>
Brooklyn Center, Minnesota 55429
April 20, 2003
Honorable Philip M Crane, Chairman,
Subcommittee on Trade,
Committee on Ways and Means
House of Representatives,
United States Congress
Congressman Jim Ramstad
103 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Chairman Crane and Congressman Ramstad:
My name is Ge Yang, a Hmong with roots in Laos. I am an American
citizen, resident of Brooklyn Center in Minnesota. I currently own Su
Express Alteration in downtown Minneapolis, State of Minnesota.
I am writing in support of Normal Trade Relations (NTR) for Laos
following the official request to Congress signed on February 24, 2003
by Secretary of Sate Colin Powell and US Trade Representative Robert
Zoellick on behalf of the Bush Administration.
I have been back to the Lao PDR for several return visits and
recently I had the opportunity to accompany Dr, Yang Dao in his
official visit to Laos. I would able to testify that changes for social
and economic reforms are taking take in my former country for the best
interests of all the Lao multi-ethnic people.
My support of granting Normalized Trade Relations for the Lao
People Democratic Republic is based on the statement regarding the
benefits of NTR for both the US and Laos by my cousin Sayasith Yangsao,
such as follows.
QUOTE
Peace and stability in the Lao PDR
Currently Laos is enjoying peace, stability and harmony, which are
crucial to building a new society for the social betterment and
economic benefits of the Lao multi-ethnic people. It is a society based
on representation from all ethnic minorities at all levels of the Lao
PDR administration. Laos has built and continues to develop roads and
bridges, which will adequately permit the transport of goods and people
nationwide, thus enabling easy access to markets and services greatly
needed by Laotian rural communities. Communication is key to the Lao
multi-ethnic people's active participation in all aspects of the
country; already they are feeling the sense of belonging to a nation,
in which their basic needs are being met.
The past sadly felt by both the United States and Laos is history
and today is the best time ever to move together into the future by
using NTR for economic and social development. Political reform would
emerge once the Laotian people have enough to eat on a daily basis and
the majority of Lao will have an acceptable level of education which
will allow them to understand and partake in politics democratically
for the interest of all.
There is no tangible evidence of acts of aggression by the LPDR on
a specific group of ethnic minorities. On the contrary, there are
continuous acts of sabotage and banditry against an internationally
recognized government and its peaceful citizens. Some ongoing
destabilizing activities in Laos by internal or external elements,
which were translated into violence and anti-social actions, have
forced the LPDR to take actions against those who may propagate such
acts of internal terror, in order to protect their citizens, employees,
government institutions, tourists and general peace in the region.
Through Normal Trade Relations with Laos, Lao-Americans, whose majority
desire to make Laos a developed and prosperous nation, will turn to
focus their efforts and positive actions towards their former nation
and motherland, instead of collecting money to fill the pockets of the
so-called numerous movements of resistance.
Welfare of the Laotian people
Today the current conditions in the Lao PDR appear to meet the
aspirations of the majority of the Lao people. The Lao government has
been taking all steps and measures required to implement a long-term
economic growth policy aimed at moving the country out of the
underdevelopment in order to reduce the current number of poor
families. With an increasing per capita income and a new tax system
improved and implemented, Laos will be able to provide more schools,
more school supplies, more hospitals and medicines, more food for the
Lao children; more farm equipment and advanced farming technologies for
the Lao farmers; and more roads to connect between the underdeveloped
rural areas. For decades, Laos has desired training and higher
education opportunities to form a skilled work force to produce goods
and provide services in a variety of industries. Currently in Lao PDR
all ethnic groups and social strata throughout the country actively
participate in rebuilding a peaceful and developed nation.
Economic interests
In my humble opinion, an NTR status granted to Lao PDR will benefit
both the US and Laos. Many opium growers in the Hmong and Iu-Mien
villages will gradually change their traditional ways of making a
living if NTR is granted by the US to Laos. NTR will assist them in
their integration into a new world of light industry with the
production of goods, handcrafts, mining, garment factories, tourism,
and services. Heavy machinery and equipment are in great need by
foreign contractors dealing with infrastructure development and mining
business of Laos. In the United States small American business owners
will find NTR to their advantage due to the low tariff for the import
of Lao goods. The absence of NTR between the US and Laos has not
forbidden Laotian-Americans to send money back to their motherland. An
estimated 90 million dollars was brought freely to the economy of Laos
by 30,000 Lao and Hmong Americans visiting Laos in 2001.
UNQUOTE
Conclusion
I sincerely believe that granting an NTR status for Laos will
greatly improve the bilateral relations between the U.S. and Laos and
will strengthen the cooperation and friendship between the two nations.
The people of both nations must not turn back to the past history that
divided the worlds of communism and capitalism, which had only caused
the climate of the cold war. I strongly urge you to establish
legislation for Normalized trade relations with my former country of
Laos.
Thank you for your attention and please feel free to contact me for
further information.
Sincerely,
Ge Yang
<F-dash>
Turlock, California 95382
April 21, 2003
The Honorable Phillip Crane Chairman,
Subcommittee on Trade
House Ways & Means Committee
Dear Chairman Crane:
I am writing this letter in support of granting NTR to Laos with
the following conditions:
1. LNTR must benefit all people and ethnic groups of Laos, not just
the elites in Laos,
2. LVisiting students and officials (related to NTR) from Laos to
the USA must be representative of the ethnic make up of the population
of Laos (for example, 60% of ethnic Lao and 40% of ethnic groups),
3. LThe implementation phase of NTR to Laos must include inputs
from experts from the community of former citizens of Laos, who have
first hand knowledge of the situation of Laos,
4. LThe government of Laos must address issues related to human
rights, religious freedom, corruption, socio-economic and political
situation in Laos, and
5. LThe government of Laos must immediately stop the practice of
Hmong American Ethnic Profiling (The US Embassy in Vientiane has
information and list of these cases. See also in Bandits or Rebels,
available form:)
I am a naturalized American citizen, born in Laos. I left Laos in
1975 as part of the post war refugee exodus of Laos. I spent a year in
the refugee camp in Thailand and then resettled in the US in 1976 at
the age of 21. I started my life in America with dishwashing, and went
on to become one of a few refugee resettlement workers in the late
1970s, and Social Worker in the 1980s and 1990s. Currently I am an
Associate Professor of Asian American Studies at California State
University, Stanislaus. I came to America without language, cultural
and vocational skills and knew only a few words of English, but I am a
believer of hard work, self-improvement, adaptability and flexibility.
Moreover, I, like, other people in Laos highly value education. To
reach my own goals and American dream, I have always worked and
attended school whenever opportunity allowed. My own perseverance, in
addition to America's opportunity and value of freedom, liberty and the
pursue of happiness, have empowered me to go from learning English as a
Second Language to earning a doctoral degree, and from being dishwasher
to university professor. I am a living proof and proponent that with
proper social, economic and political environment, anyone can achieve
their own fullest potential and give their very best to humanity.
Sincerely,
Kou Yang, Ed.D.
<F-dash>
Brooklyn Park, Minnesota 55443
April 20, 2003
Honorable Philip M Crane, Chairman,
Subcommittee on Trade,
Committee on Ways and Means
House of Representatives,
United States Congress
Dear Chairman Crane:
My name is Sayasith L. Yangsao, a Lao of Hmong origin. I am an
American citizen, trained in Canada as an Engineer and Electronics
Technology instructor. I presently work as a freelance computer network
consultant in the Twin Cities area in the state of Minnesota.
I am writing in support of Normal Trade Relations (NTR) for Laos
such as requested to Congress and signed on February 24, 2003 by US
Trade Representative Robert Zoellick and Secretary of Sate Colin Powell
on behalf of the Bush Administration.
Since 1993, I have been back to the Lao PDR for several personal
visits and a one-year assignment as a UN-ITU curriculum specialist at
the Post and Telecommunications Training Center in the Lao capital of
Vientiane. I consider myself a close observer of Lao politics, with a
special interest in the Lao PDR economic, social, and educational
development.
My support of granting Normalized Trade Relations for the Lao
People Democratic Republic is based on the following reasons.
Peace and stability in the Lao PDR
Currently Laos is enjoying peace, stability and harmony, which are
crucial to building a new society for the social betterment and
economic benefits of the Lao multi-ethnic people. It is a society based
on representation from all ethnic minorities at all levels of the Lao
PDR administration. Laos has built and continues to develop roads and
bridges, which will adequately permit the transport of goods and people
nationwide, thus enabling easy access to markets and services greatly
needed by Laotian rural communities. Communication is key to the Lao
multi-ethnic people's active participation in all aspects of the
country; already they are feeling the sense of belonging to a nation,
in which their basic needs are being met.
The past sadly felt by both the United States and Laos is history
and today is the best time ever to move together into the future by
using NTR for economic and social development. Political reform would
emerge once the Laotian people have enough to eat on a daily basis and
the majority of Lao will have an acceptable level of education which
will allow them to understand and partake in politics democratically
for the interest of all.
There is no tangible evidence of acts of aggression by the LPDR on
a specific group of ethnic minorities. On the contrary, there are
continuous acts of sabotage and banditry against an internationally
recognized government and its peaceful citizens. Some ongoing
destabilizing activities in Laos by internal or external elements,
which were translated into violence and anti-social actions, have
forced the LPDR to take actions against those who may propagate such
acts of internal terror, in order to protect their citizens, employees,
government institutions, tourists and general peace in the region.
Through Normal Trade Relations with Laos, Lao-Americans, whose majority
desire to make Laos a developed and prosperous nation, will turn to
focus their efforts and positive actions towards their former nation
and motherland, instead of collecting money to fill the pockets of the
so-called numerous movements of resistance.
Welfare of the Laotian people
Today the current conditions in the Lao PDR appear to meet the
aspirations of the majority of the Lao people. The Lao government has
been taking all steps and measures required to implement a long-term
economic growth policy aimed at moving the country out of the
underdevelopment in order to reduce the current number of poor
families. With an increasing per capita income and a new tax system
improved and implemented, Laos will be able to provide more schools,
more school supplies, more hospitals and medicines, more food for the
Lao children; more farm equipment and advanced farming technologies for
the Lao farmers; and more roads to connect between the underdeveloped
rural areas. For decades, Laos has desired training and higher
education opportunities to form a skilled work force to produce goods
and provide services in a variety of industries. Currently in Lao PDR
all ethnic groups and social strata throughout the country actively
participate in rebuilding a peaceful and developed nation.
Economic interests
In my humble opinion, an NTR status granted to Lao PDR will benefit
both the US and Laos. Many opium growers in the Hmong and Iu-Mien
villages will gradually change their traditional ways of making a
living if NTR is granted by the US to Laos. NTR will assist them in
their integration into a new world of light industry with the
production of goods, handcrafts, mining, garment factories, tourism,
and services. Heavy machinery and equipment are in great need by
foreign contractors dealing with infrastructure development and mining
business of Laos. In the United States small American business owners
will find NTR to their advantage due to the low tariff for the import
of Lao goods. The absence of NTR between the US and Laos has not
forbidden Laotian-Americans to send money back to their motherland. An
estimated 90 million dollars was brought freely to the economy of Laos
by 30,000 Lao and Hmong Americans visiting Laos in 2001.
Conclusion
More two-way trade as offered by NTR will have additional long-term
beneficial effects in the US-Lao Relations. At present, the Lao PDR can
use the ASEAN markets to export its products to the US, but at much
higher prices, which are not in the interest of both sides. Offering
these remarks in support of the NTR for Laos, it is great hope that the
bilateral relations between the U.S. and Laos will be further improved
between the two nations. The lack of normal trade relations will delay
other cooperative agreements that will serve to establish a trusting
relationship between the two governments. The people of both nations
must not have to suffer at the hands of some biased vindictive groups
that have strongly lobbied their government representatives to oppose
ratification of the bilateral Lao-U.S. Trade Agreement. I strongly urge
you to establish legislation for Normalized trade relations with the
country of Laos.
Thank you for your attention and please feel free to contact me for
further testimony.
Sincerely yours,
Sayasith L. Yangsao
<F-dash>
[BY PERMISSION OF THE CHAIRMAN:]
Jakarta 12110 Indonesia
21 April 2003
The Honorable Philip Crane
Chairman, Subcommittee on Trade
House Ways & Means Committee
Fax. No. (202) 225 2610
Dear Chairman Crane,
I write to support Normal Trade Relations (NTR) for Lao People's
Democratic Republic (PDR) which is a Member Country of the Association
of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
ASEAN's ten Member Countries covering the whole of the Southeast
Asian region is America's third largest overseas market; our trade with
America contributes nearly 800,000 high paying US export jobs; and,
American companies have tremendous equity in the region as its top
investor.
Passing NTR for Lao PDR is a key step to building the foundation
for moving forward with the Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative (EAI) which
was announced by President George Bush on October 26, 2002 at APEC in
Los Cabos, Mexico. Engaging ASEAN through the EAI is an important step
for US competitiveness in the ASEAN market. As you know, China is
moving forward with negotiations for an ASEAN-China Free Trade
Agreement (FTA), and India, Japan and Europe are also beginning to
negotiate similar framework with ASEAN.
I am aware that NTR with Lao PDR has been strongly endorsed by
Secretary of State Colin Powell and US Trade Representative Robert
Zoellick. The US Administration and US Embassy in Vientiane report that
Lao PDR is moving forward on key areas of past concern to America.
These areas, including religious freedom, human rights and economic
reform are highlighted in the Administration's letter to you
recommending moving forward on Lao PDR NTR.
For all these reasons, the passage of NTR status would be
considered a positive step forward for the strong trade relationship
between ASEAN and America which has brought mutual benefits for our
peoples.
Thank you for your kind attention.
Sincerely,
Ong Keng Yong
Secretary General of ASEAN
<F-dash>
Washington, D.C. 20036
April 2003
The Honorable Philip Crane
Chairman Subcommittee on Trade
Committee on Ways and Means
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Mr. Chairman:
I am writing in support of Congressional ratification of extending
normal trade relations to Laos, as requested of the Congress by
Secretary of State Colin Powell and United States Trade Representative
Robert Zoellick in late February. As you know, the bilateral trade
agreement between the United States and Laos was negotiated in 1997,
even before the trade agreement between the United States and Vietnam.
It is heartening to see that your subcommittee is working to complete
the normalization of economic relations between Laos and the U.S.
I have been involved in efforts to improve the relationship between
the United States and Laos over the last 12 years, beginning in 1991
when I worked for the Senate Select Committee on POW/MIA Affairs. The
Committee made several trips to Laos to investigate reports of
Americans held as prisoners of war or missing in action during the
Vietnam War days. Most recently, two years ago, I led a delegation of
Congressional staff there for discussions on how to move forward on
issues of human rights, freedom of religion, trade and economics. Ten
years had passed between my first trip and my latest, but light years
had passed on the Laotian side. Most impressive was our discussion with
the government officials in the Ministry of Commerce, the people
responsible for negotiating the trade agreement with USTR. The
delegation found them to be as sophisticated, open and hard-working as
any of their counterparts in other countries in Southeast Asia.
Laos is a small country and lowering trade barriers to their goods
here in the United States will not make much of an impression here, but
it will make an enormous difference for the Laotians. Those reformers
who worked so hard to move their country to embrace a fuller trade
relationship with the United States in 1997 took a chance for their
country's betterment; and their work should be encouraged and
supported.
Thank you very much for soliciting comments on the matter of
extending normal trade relations to Laos. Please let me know if I can
be of any assistance in this matter.
Sincerely yours,
Frances A. Zwenig
Senior Country Director
US-ASEAN Business Council
<greek-d>