PM Transcripts

L I
FOR PRESS: K j~ P. M. No. 56/ 1969
PRESIDENT THIEUS STATEMENT ON FREE ELECTIONS
IN VIETNAM
Comment by the Prime Minister, Mr. John Gorton
The statement which President Nguyen Van Thieu
has made today is a most important one. It demonstrates
strikingly his willingness to do his part in clearing the way for
a political solution that will end the fighting and at the same time
let the people of South Vietnam determine their own future.
President Thieu has indicated that in free elections,
the N. L. F. would be allowed to contest the polls if they renounce
violence and pledge themselves to accept the result of the election.
The N. L. F. could be represented in the arrangements for the
conduct of the elections. An international body would supervise
the elections and make sure that they were held under conditions
fair to all. President Thieu's government is prepared to discuss
with the other side the timetable and the modalities under which
the election will be held. The President has also pledged that
there would be no reprisals or discrimination after the elections.
His government has declared that it will abide by the results of
the election whatever those results might be.
This is a very significant statement removing
obstacles which certain people in other countries have seen in
the way of a peaceful outcome.
President Thieu's political initiative today, and
President Nixon's speech on 15 May, demonstrate the sincerity
of the Republic of Vietnam and its allies in seeking for a just
and lasting peace in accordance with the wishes and interests of
the Vietnamese people. kt is up to the other side to respond.
CANBERRA 11 July 1969