UN Secretariat Item Scan - Barcode - Record Title Pa3e 23 Date 28/06/2006 Time 10:52:39 AM
S-0878-0001 -23-00001
Expanded Number S-0878-0001 -23-00001
items-in-Laos - negotiations with Phouma and Souphanouvong
Date Created 10/10/1969
Record Type Archival Item
Container S-0878-0001: Peace-Keeping Operations Files of the Secretary-General: U Thant: Other Countries
Print Name of Person Submit Image Signature of Person Submit Aide-Memoire
On 10 October 1969, at noon, the Prime Minister of Laos, His Highness Prince Souvanna Phouma, paid a visit to the Secretary-General. He was accompanied by the Permanent Representative of Laos to the United Nations. The Prime Minister said that he had just visited Washington where he had held meetings with members of the United States Government regarding the situation in his country and endeavoured to obtain their assistance in bringing about the restoration of peace in Laos. He was anxious to enlist also the support of the Secretary-General for that purpose. One of the means of achieving that goal was the implementation of the Geneva Agreement of 1962, and in particular article k thereof which provides that, in the case of a threat to the territorial integrity of Laos, the members of the Geneva Conference must convene to discuss the situation. Such a threat obviously existed since the North Viet-Namese had invaded Laotian territory. Acting on the basis of article k of the Geneva Agreement, the Prime Minister had appealed personally to the Co-Chairmen of the Conference, but his efforts had been of no avail, especially on account of the attitude of the USSR Government. The latter was of the opinion that the situation in Laos would be solved automatically once the war in Viet-Nam had ended. Such an approach, however, was not acceptable to the Laotian Government since the Geneva Agreement concerning Laos had been signed in 1962, that is before the Agreement on Viet-Nam, and the fate of his country was not linked to that of Viet-Nam. Because of his lack of success in appealing - either directly or through the French and British Governments - to the Co-Chairmen of the Conference, the Prime Minister had just asked the United States Government to take the initiative of consulting the members of the Geneva Conference, especially those which might respond favourably to such an appeal, namely: Burma, Cambodia, Canada, France, India, South Viet-Nam, Thailand and the United Kingdom. A joint intervention on the part of these countries, i.e. on the part of a majority of the members of the Conference, would have considerable weight with the Co-Chairmen. Before returning to his country, the Prime Minister intended to visit Paris, London and possibly New Delhi to request the three Governments to support the United States initiative. He would also have an opportunity to speak to Ambassador Malik before his departure and would request the Permanent Representative of Laos to contact the Permanent Representatives of the other members of the Conference. - 2 -
Replying to a question by the Secretary-General, the Prime Minister stated that the recent vithdrawal of Pathet-Lao units from the Plaine des Jarres had no political significance. They were forced to withdraw because their supply routes had been cut. The latest information available to the Prime Minister showed, however, that Pathet-Lao units were coming back in force and might soon launch a counter-offensive. It had been reported in particular that the J12th North Viet-Namese Division had recently crossed the Laotian border. Replying to another question by the Secretary-General, the Prime Minister asserted that the present bombing was directed against the North Viet-Namese invaders and not against the population. In fact, almost all the inhabitants of the affected area had fled to Government-controlled territory and the number of refugees cared for by the Laotian Government amounted to 700,000 out of a total population of 3 million. The Prime Minister then pointed out that North Viet-Nam's intervention in Laos was not a new phenomenon. It had started long before the Laotian Government requested United States help in 196^. That year, after the North Viet-Namese and Pathet-Lao forces had attacked the neutralist forces in the Plaine des Jarres, the Laotian Government had asked the USSR Government for the ammunition it needed to use the weapons it had received from the Soviet Union. It was only after Mr. Khrushchev's refusal that the Laotian Government had turned to the United States. The Prime Minister was now anxious to obtain help from the members of the Geneva Conference which, in accordance with the Agreement, had the duty to guarantee the territorial integrity, neutrality and independence of Laos. In reply to a point raised by the Secretary-General, the Prime Minister observed that Prince Souphanouvong had asked for a cessation of the bombing, but that the Laotian Government could not accede to such a request unless the North Viet-Namese were willing to withdraw their troops from Laos. Asked about the present relations between Laos and Cambodia, the Prime u-i«Hf Minister pointed out that, in the course of a visit to Cambodia/, Prince Sihanouk had asked him to sign a treaty, or at least a joint communique^^ , recognizing the territorial integrity of that country. The Prime Minister had refused to do so since Laos was a neutral country while Cambodia had 1 I
differences with South Viet-Nam and Thailand. He had expressed, however, his readiness to sign a communique concerning the border between Cambodia and Laos. Almost immediately after the Prime Minister had returned to Laos, the Cambodian Chief of State in a speech accused him of being a traitor and withdrew his ambassador from Vientiane. The Laotian ambassador was then recalled from Phnom-Penh. The Prime Minister noted, however, that the diplomatic relations between the two countries had not been broken - each country was still represented by a charge d'affaires - and that Laos would be willing to send back its ambassador to Phnom-Penh if Cambodia were willing to take the first step. Before leaving, the Prime Minister thanked the Secretary-General for his kind welcome and his understanding approach to the situation in Laos.
10 October 1969 5 February 1971 RdeB/ksn
NOTE ON THE SITUATION IN LAOS
At a time when Laos seems on the verge of becoming more deeply involved in the Indo-China war, it may be useful to recall a few elements characteristic of the situation in that country.
1 The Geneva Agreements The political and juridical situation in Laos is by and large defined by the Geneva Agreements of 23 July 1962 instituting the neutrality of the country. Shortly before, the three factions in the country - the right, the neutralist and the Pathet Lao - had agreed on a repartition of the territory and responsibilities in the government under the chairmanship of Prince Souvanna Phouma. After two years, the Pathet Lao had left the government and renewed fighting. Little by little, the disappearance of the neutralist forces created a vacuum in the areas which they had held until then, notably the Plaine des Jarres. Both the rightists and the Pathet Lao claimed their heritage and the Pathet Lao even set up its own so-called "neutralist movement". Most of the fighting which has occurred during the last years was around former neutralist strongholds but the areas clearly attributed to the Pathet Lao or to the right have never been seriously claimed or threatened by the other side, at least until the recent events of Cambodia made the Communist camp expand its control in southern Laos. Similarly, the repartition of portfolios in the Government of National Union set up by different agreements in 1961-1962 was never questioned and ministries given at that time to the Pathet Lao are Jsept available for their holders when they return. 2 The negotiations between the government of Prince Souvanna Phouma and the Pathet Lao Despite scattered fighting, the government of Prince Souvanna Phouma and the Pathet Lao led by his half-brother, Prince Souvanouvuoung, never totally stopped to negotiate and the Pathet Lao still has an official representative in Vientiane. Prince Souvanna Phouma always maintained that the Pathet Lao could reoccupy its seats in his government. However, Prince Souvanouvuoung rejects this return to t he situation previously existing without its adaptation to the "realities of the new situation". In March 19?0, the
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Pathet Lao put forward a five-point plan, text of which is attached (see Annex), and, at the same time, proposed to undertake negotiations with Prince Souvanna Phouma. During the last months, a Pathet Lao special envoy tried to negotiate in Vientiane the question of a place where represent atives of the two leaders could meet. The Pathet Lao proposed KhftHg-Khay, in that part of the country which it controls, and set as a precondition to the holding of the meeting that all bombings should "be stopped in the two northern provinces, Xieng Khouang and Sam Neua,(which are held by the Pathet Laqy. Prince Souvanna Phouma put forward as a condition that all North Viet-Namese troops would be withdrawn from these provinces. Although no agreement could be reached until now, it is interesting to note that the Pathet Lao made several concessions on the duration and implementation of the cessation of the bombing.which tends to show that both parties had a real desire to negotiate. On 21 January, the government of Prince Souvanna Phouma made a new proposal that the meeting be held in the Royal capital, Luang Prabang, thus placing it under the auspices of the King whose authority is recognized by both parties. At the present stage, the Pathet Lao has expressed opposition to this offer, but has not yet had time to make counter-proposals. 5 Possible consequences of foreign intervention in Laos - The intervention of South Viet-Namese or other forces in the southern part of Laos might be th e final blow to the 1962 Protocol which states in Article k: "The introduction of foreign regular and irregular troops, foreign paramilitary formations and foreign military personnel into Laos is prohibited." - The negotiations now under way between Prince Souvanna Phouma and the Pathet Lao might be completely interrupted, thus eliminating the still dim possibility that the conflict might be solved between the Laotians themselves. • A foreign intervention could strengthen ultra-rightist elements in the Vientiane government and further weaken-the position of Prince Souvanna Phouma or even bring about his resignation. His disappearance would definitely destroy the precarious balance instituted in 1962 which the Prime Minister has tried to maintain in spite of everything and bring about a situation similar to that prevailing in Viet-Nam where Hanoi and the Viet Cong refuse to negotiate with the authorities in power in Saigon. * # * Laos has since long been affected by the Indo-China war. Its northernmost province is said to be under quasi-occupation by China. Thai, United States
A.. - 3 - and North Viet-Namese elements have for a long time taken part in the fighting on both sides. However, the war in Laos had not until now taken the unredeemable aspect it has in Viet-Nam and Cambodia. If a massive intervention of South Viet-Namese elements were to occur, this unfortunate Kingdom might know the fate of Cambodia and more damage could be suffered in a few days than has been felt in the last nine years. It is doubtful that in the present context the United Kingdom and the Soviet Union, which exert special responsibilities towards Laos as Cb-Ghairmen of the Seneva Conference, can undertake a joint and successful action. ANNEX
Essentials of the five-point solution of the Pathet Lao;
1. All countries must respect the sovereignty, independence, neutrality, unity and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Laos, as provided for in the 1962 Geneva agreement on Laos. The United States must put an end to its intervention and aggression in Laos. 2. In accordance with the 1962 Geneva agreement, the Kingdom of Laos refrains from joining any military alliance with foreign countries and from allowing foreign countries to establish military bases in Laos and to introduce troops and military personnel into its territory. 3- To respect the Throne, to hold free and democratic elections, to elect a national assembly and to set up a democratic government of national union truly representative of the Lao people of all nationalities, to build a. peaceful, independent, neutral, democratic, unified and prosperous Laos. 4. During the period from the restoration of peace to the general elections for setting up the national assembly, the parties concerned shall, in a spirit of nati onal concord, equality and mutual respect, hold a consultative political conference composed of representatives of all Lao parties concerned in order to deal with all the affairs of Laos, and set up a provisional coalition government. The parties shall reach agreement on the establishment of a security zone to ensure the normal functioning of the consultative political conference and the provisional coalition government, free from all attempts to sabotage or pressure by forces from inside or outside Laos. 5. The unification of Laos shall be achieved through consultations between the Lao parties on the principle of equality and national concord. Pending this unification, no party shall use force to encroach upon or nibble at the areas controlled by another. The pro-American forces must withdraw forthwith from the areas they have illegally occupied, and resettle in their native places those people who have been forcibly removed from there. At the same time, they must pay compensations for damages caused to them. Each party pledges itself to refrain from discrimination and reprisals against those who have collaborated with the other one.
6 March 1970 NEWS RELEASE
Washington, February 10, 1971
STATEMENT BT THE ROY^L GOVERN1IE1IT
CONCER1-IIIIG THE SOUTH VIETNAiiEiiE INCURSION INTO LAO." February S, 1971 Several days ago the international press noted the eventuality of an important confrontation on Laotian territory between the North and South Vietnamese forces with U.S. logistical assistance, most probably on the illegal infiltration and access route known as the "Ho Chi I'linh Trr.il" which has been used for years b}*- the i-Iorth Vietnamese as a supply network to reach Cambodia and South Vietnam, despite continual protests and denunciations by the Royal Government. This news has unfortunately been confirmed. The Government regrets once again that foreign troops from coun.triers and £2XPJ-llraJ~njLS_ which promised _to_ guarsntee and clef end the sovereignty, neutrality and inviolab ility of Laos, have deliberately chosen Lao territory as _a battleground. Undoubtedly, the primary responsibility rests with the Democratic Republic of Vietnam which has disregarded international law, including the Accords solemnly concluded at Geneva in 1962, and which has continued, to violate the neutrality and territorial integrity of the Kingdom; but that cannot constitute a justification for the entry of other troops into Laos. In any case, the Royal Government requests all foreign troops to withdraw immediately from the Kingdom's territory and begs the powers responsible for seeing that the conditions set forth in the Geneva Accords on Laos are respected, to take the necessary steps to ensure that all the signatories respect the spirit and letter of these Accords to which the Government and Lao people remain attached. NEWS RELEASE
Washington, February 15, 1971
MESSAGE FROM THE PRIME MINISTER, PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL OF MINISTERS OF LAOS, TO THEIR EXCELLENCIES THE MINISTERS OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE GOVERNMENTS OF THE UNION OF SOVIET SOCIALIST REPUBLICS AND GREAT BRITAIN, CO-CHAIRMEN OF THE GENEVA CONFERENCE OF 1962 ON LAOS FEBRUARY 5, 1971 Excellency, I wish to raise a very strong protest against the attack perpetrated by the troops of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, against the towns and garrisons occupied by the Royal Armed Forces: 1) the town of Phalane, in the Province of Savannakhet, was attacked January 26, 1971, by three North Vietnamese battalions and besieged by the enemy; 2) more recently, the town of Huong Soui, a garrison of neutralist troops, was attacked by four North Vietnamese battalions of the 312 and 316 Divisions using rockets and armored trucks. Due to the overwhelming North Vietnamese superiority in men and materialj the town fell into the hands of the enemy on February 3, 1971, at 6:20 a.m..
3) at the same time, simultaneous attacks were launched against six military positions protecting the city of Luang-Prabang to the North and Northeast.
Four positions have already been besieged by the North Vietnamese forces, and the fighting now centers on the other two, 4) and besides these recent reprehensible acts, the Democratic Republic of Vietnam has been guilty for more than twenty years of establishing, organizing and using the Ho Chi Minh Trail, situated on Lao territory, through which it continuously sends troops and war materials to Cambodia and South Vietnam. In raising this solemn protest, I am also anxious to denounce the criminal attitude of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, which engages in all sorts of illegal operations on the territory of Laos. The Democratic Republic of Vietnam is a co-signatory of the Geneva Accords guaranteeing the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and inviolability of the Lao borders. However, its troops .invade the Kingdom and behave as if they are in a conquered country. The attack and occupation of Muong Soul reveal the real intentions of the Hanoi Government, which are to gain control of Laos and to occupy it. Already the royal garrisons of Samthong and Long Cheng have been threatened by North Vietnamese troops, the progress of which was facilitated by the fall of Muong Soul. Moreover, the city of Luang-Prabang is no longer safe from the hostile acts of the North Vietnamese troops.
Even more serious than the loss in human lives and material resultin•go from the above-mentioned operations of the Worth Vietnamese troops, are the intentions of the Hanoi Government which ordered them. These intentions are now clear: the above-mentioned operations are the forerunners of a major offensive which is to come, Ey virtue of Your Excellency's responsibility as Co-Chairman of the Geneva Conference on Laos, I beg you to urgently consider the appropriate steps; 1) to remind the Democratic Republic of Vietnam that the Accords signed at Geneva in 1962 are to be respected, 2) to have the Worth Vietnamese troops withdrawn from Laos, 3) to put a stop to the large scale operations being prepared by the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. These operations are detrimental not only to the peace of the region, but also to the peace of the world. I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to Your Excellency the assurances of my highest consideration.
Signed; Prince SOUV.HMWA PKOUMA (Chao Krommana) THE HOYAL EMBASSY OF LAOS .... 2222 S Street, N.W. Washington,, D.C, 20008
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PRINTED MATTER ROUTING SLIP FICHE DE TRANSMISSION The Secretary-General
FOR ACTION POUR SUITE A DONNER FOR APPROVAL POUR APPROBATION FOR SIGNATURE POUR SIGNATURE PREPARE DRAFT PROJET A REDIGER FOR COMMENTS POUR OBSERVATIONS MAY WE CONFER? POURRIONS-NOUS EN PARLERJ YOUR ATTENTION VOTRE ATTENTION AS DISCUSSED COMME CONVENU AS REQUESTED SUITE A VOTRE DEMANDE NOTE AND FILE NOTER ET CLASSER NOTE AND RETURN NOTER ET RETOURNER FOR INFORMATION XX POUR INFORMATION
Brief note on negotiations between Prince Souvanna Phouma and Prince Souphanouvong.
Date: FROM: 2.111.71 DE: Rene" de Branche
CR. 13 (11-64) 1 March 1971 RdeB/ksn
NEGOTIATIONS BETWEEN PRINCE SOW/ANNA PHOUMA AND PRINCE SOUPHANOUVONG
Conversations between the Government of Prince Souvanna Phouma and the Pathet Lao were interrupted - at least temporarily - by the recent events in southern Laos. At the beginning of February, the negotiations had reached the following stage: 1. As of the end of January, the position of the Pathet Lao was that plenipotentiaries of the two Princes should hold conversations at Khang Khay in the Plaine des Jarres in an area controlled by the Pathet Lao but close to the demarcation line between the two sides. However, the Pathet Lao set as a pre-condition that bombings should be inter- rupted for a certain period in the Xieng Khouang province (where Khang Kay is situated) and in a corridor along the road between Khang Kay and Sam Neua (where the Pathet Lao authorities reside). This final position of the Pathet Lao was a long way from the initial one. In fact, in March 1970, Prince Souphanouvong stated that no meeting of representatives of the two sides could be held unless all United States bombings of Laos ceased. 2. Prince Souvanna Phouma's counter-proposal was to neutralize an area within a radius of ten miles around Khang Kay with a corridor to Sam Neua. He also set as a condition to the stopping of the bombing in that limited zone that all North Viet-Namese troops should be withdrawn from it. The Pathet Lao rejected this proposal. On 21 January 1971, Prince Souvanna Phouma, in an audience granted to the special envoy of Prince Souphanouvong, proposed that the meeting be held in the royal capital of Luang Prabang. On 5 February 1971, Prince Souphanouvong' s special envoy rejected this proposal and accused Prince Souvanna Phouma of having an "insincere and inappropriate attitude". It can be noted that negotiations so far did not bear on a meeting "between the two Princes themselves "but only on that of their plenipotentiaries. However, following a long period from 1963 to 1969 during which the two half-brothers had no public contact at all, this recent exchange of communications can be considered as a positive element. ROUTING SLIP FICHE DE TRANSMISSION T0t AS The Secretary-General FOR ACTION POUR SUITE A DONNER FOR APPROVAL POUR APPROBATION FOR SIGNATURE POUR SIGNATURE PREPARE DRAFT PROJET A REDIGER FOR COMMENTS POUR OBSERVATIONS MAY WE CONFER? POURRIONS-NOUS EN PARLER? YOUR ATTENTION VOTRE ATTENTION AS DISCUSSED COMME CONVENU AS REQUESTED SUITE A VOTRE DEMANDE NOTE AND FILE NOTER ET CLASSER NOTE AND RETURN NOTER ET RETOURNER FOR INFORMATION XX POUR INFORMATION
Brief note on the ICC on Laos.
Date: FROM: DE: Rene" de Branche
CR. 13 (11-64) 2 March 1971 RdeB/ksn
NOTE ON THE INTERNATIONAL CONTROL COMMISSION ON LAOS
An aide-memoire sent on 12 February 1971 by the Polish Government to the Co-Chairmen of the Geneva Conference on Laos states that Poland regards "the International Commission in Laos as an important instrument of exercising a constructive role, once favourable conditions to this effect arise". It can be useful in this context to briefly review the role of the ICC:and the two Co-Chairmen in the Laotian conflict. 1. The ICC is composed of the representatives of Canada, India (Chairman) and Poland and its task is defined in the 1962 Protocol on Laos (see Annex). The Commission has not been very active in Laos since the Pathet Lao never agreed to inspections in the areas under its control. The first joint statement in eight years was signed by the three members of the ICC on 7 July 1970 and was an expression of support for the negotiations initiated between Prince Souvanna Phouma and Prince Souphanouvong. More recently, the ICC met again on 11 February 1971 in an emergency meeting called on the suggestion of Canada after South Viet- Namese troops entered the southern part of Laos. Although the results of this meeting were not disclosed and are unlikely in the present context to have been very constructive, it is interesting to note that the Polish Government accepted the principle of such a meeting. \ It can be noted that the ICC also plays a role of liaison between Hanoi and Vientiane and that exchanges of communications or emissaries between Prince Souvanna Phouma and Prince Souphanouvong generally use the channel of the Commission. The ICC is in a difficult financial situation: Canada at the end of 1969 decided to relocate its representatives in Saigon for budgetary reasons. However, a few weeks ago, Japan expressed its willingness to provide funds and equipment to help the Commission function. 2. The role of the Co-Chairmen of the Geneva Conference is also defined by the 1962 Protocol and both sides in the Laotian conflict still
This aide-me"moire was circulated as a document of the Security Council on 15 February 1971 (S/10117). - 2 - recognize their competence. In the last three weeks, the Pathet Lao sent three communications to the Co-Chairmen, the latest one being a message from Prince Souphanouvong dated 12 February on the intervention of South Viet-Wamese troops in Laos. Prime Souvanna Phouma's latest letter to the Co-Chairmen is dated 5 February 1970. Difficulties arise from the fact that Great Britain does not recognize the Pathet Lao and consequently does not take into consideration communications from it. On the other hand, the Soviet Union, without denying its special responsibilities, is opposed to a joint action with Great Britain in the present situation. However, in this context, the initiative of Poland, a socialist country, is interesting. It can be mentioned that the text of the Polish aide-memoire was handed to all members of the Geneva Conference, including the People's Republic of China. '•I " Annex ...... ' ?•; • I T •-" " t Excerpts from the 1962 Protocol to the Declaration on the Neutrality"& Laos AiviicuiS The Co-Chairmen shall period icmMy_jxa;ivcj'epons from the Commission. In addition the Commission shall immcdiatelyreport to the Co-Chairmcn any violations or threats of \iolations of ihis-IYolocol, all significant steps which it takes in pursuance of this Protocol, and also any other important information which may assist the Co-Chairmen in carrying out their functions. The Com- • 111 i ssion may at any time seek help from the Co-Chairmen in the perform:! ncc of its duiies, aiuLllu-..C(hCh:iiinien may at ajiy time make recommendations to the Commi.ssion exercising ueiiei.il guidance. I lie Co-Chuirincn .-hall eirenlale the reports and any other important • •,• inform.itiwu.Jiom ihe Commission lo the members ol the C'onlerence.
live Co-Chairmen >hall e.\ercise> supervisiou^over t|iet observance of this Protocol and the Declaration on the Neutrality of Laos.
JThe Co-Chairmen will keep the members of the Conference constantly informed ancl'w'Ucn appropriate"will consult \vith_tb^iiL_—
AUTICLI: 9 *•• The Commission shall, with the concurrence of the Royal Ciovernmcnt of Laos, supervise and control the cease-fire in Laos. The Commission shall exercise these functions in -full co-operation with the Royal Government of Laos and within ihe framework of the Cease-Lire Agreement or cease-lire arrangements made by the three political forces in .. Laos, or the Royal Go\ernment of Laos. It is understood that responsibility l"i>r the execution of the cease-lire shall rest with* the three parties concerned and . \\ilh- the Royal Ciovernmcnt of Laos after its formation.
ARTICLL 10 I ~- "fhe Commission shall supervise and control the withdrawal of foreign reguTTi7~"a*rRt irregular troops, foreign para-military Tm'malions and foreign lyrntlTry^eTsTWfelTnriT^ for these purposes shall be present for the period of the withdrawal at all points of withdrawal from Laos determined by (he Royal Government of Laos in consultation with the Commission in accordance with Article 3 of this Protocol.
ARTICDJ 11 Y- The Commission shall investigate cases where there are reasonable grounds for considering that a violation of the provisions of Article 4 of this Protocol has occurred. It is understood that in the exercise of this function the Commission is acting with the concurrence of the Royal Government of Laos. It shall carry out its investigations in full co-operation with the Royal Government of Laos and shall immediately inform the Co-Chairmen of any violations or threats of violations of Article 4, and also of all significant steps which it takes in pursuance of this Article in accordance with Article 8.
i ARTICI r: 12 The Commission shall assist the Royal Government of Laos in cases where the Royal Government of Laos considers that a violation of Article 6 of this J Protocol may have taken place. This assistance will be rendered at the request of the Royal Government of Laos and in full co-operation with it.
, ARTICLE l.< :*' •' t The Commission shall exercise its functions under this Protocol in close 1 co-operation with the Royal Government of Laos. It is understood that the .,;•'> '.-.(" i Royal Government of Laos at all levels will render the Commission all possible '•• •'* • i • assistance in the peiformance by the Commission of these functions and also ." • . i l will take all necessary measures lo ensure the security of the Commission and its | inspection teams during their activities in Laos. j ARTICLE 14 The Commission functions as a single organ of the International Conference for the Settlement of the Laotian Question, 1961-1962. The members of the Commission will work harmoniously and in co-operation with each other with the aim of solving all questions within the terms oP reference of the Commission. Decisions of the Commission on questions relating to violations of Articles 2, 3, 4 and 6 of this Protocol or of the cease-fire referred to in Article 9, conclusions on major questions sent to the Co-Chairmen and all recommendations by the Commission shall be adopted unanimously. On other questions, including procedural questions, and also questions relating to the initiation and carrying out of investigations (Article 15), decisions of the Commission shall be adopted by majority vote. • T • *• ARTICLE 15 ' In the exercise of its specific functions which are laid down in the relevant articles of this Protocol the Commission shall conduct investigations (directly or by sending inspection teams), when there are reasonable grounds for considering that a violation has occurred. These investigations shall be carried out at the request of the Royal Government of Laos or on the initiative of the Com- mission, which is acting with the concurrence ot tlieHoyal Government of Laos. In the latter case decisions on initiating and carrying out such investigations shall be taken in the Commission by majority vote. The Commission shall su.bmit agreed reports on1 investigations in which differences which may emerge betw,een members of the Commission on particular questions may be expressed.' The conclusions and recommendations of the Commission resulting from investigations shall be adopted unanimously.
x ARTICLE 16 For the exercise of its functions the Commission shall, as necessary, set up inspection teams, on which the three member-States of the Commission shall be equally represented. Each member-State of the Commission shall ensure the presence of its own representatives both on the Commission and on the inspection teams, and shall promptly replace them in the event of their being unable to perform their duties. It is understood that the dispatch of inspection teams to carry out various specific tasks takes place with the concurrence of the Royal Government of Laos. The points to which the Commission and its inspection teams go for the purposes of investigation and their length of stay at those points shall be deter- mined in relation to the requirements of the particular investigation.
/ ARTICLE 17 The Commission shall have at its disposal the means of communication and transport required for the performance of its duties. These as a rule will be provided to the Commission by the Royal Government of Laos for payment on mutually acceptable terms, and those which the Royal Government of Laos cannot provide will be acquired by the Commission from other sources. It is understood that the means of communication and transport will be under the administrative control of the Commission. 22
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ARTICLE 18 The costs of the operations of the Commission shall be borne by the members of the Conference in accordance with the provisions of this Article. (
ARTICLE 19 The Co-Chairmen shall at any time, if the Royal Government of Laos so requests, -ancl in any case not later than three years .after the entry info force 6T~lhis Protocol, present a repofT^wiTh"'"'appVopriate recommendations on the question of the termination of the Commission to the members of the Conference for their consideration. Before making such a report the Co- Chairmcn shall hold consultations with the Royal Government of Laos and the Commission. ARTICLE 20 This Protocol shall enter into force on signature. It shall be deposited in the archives of the Governments of the United Kingdom and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, which shall furnish certified copies thereof to the other signatory States and to all other States of the world. In witness whereof, the undersigned Plenipotentiaries have signed this Protocol. Done in two copies in Geneva this Twenty-third day of July One thousand nine hundred and sixty-two in the English, Chinese, French, Laotian and Russian languages, each text being equally authoritative. For the Union of Burma: U THI HAN For the Kingdom of Cambodia: NHIEK TIOULONG 23 UNITED NATIONS Distr. SECURITY GENERAL s/10117 c 15 February 1971 ORIGINAL: ENGLISH
LETTER DATED 1* FEBRUARY 1971 FROM THE PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE OF POLAND TO THE UNITED NATIONS ADDRESSED TO THE SECRETARY-GENERAL
Upon instructions from my Government I have the honour to submit herewith the text of an unofficial translation of the aide-memoire of the Government of the Polish People's Republic to the Co-Chairmen of the Geneva Conference on Laos, dated 12 February 1971. I shall be most grateful if you will arrange to have this communication circulated as an official document of the Security Council. Please, accept, etc.
(Signed) Eugeniusz KULAGA Ambassador Permanent Representative of Poland to the United Nations
71-02868 S/K>117 English Page 2
AIDE-MEMOIRE OF THE GOVERNMENT OF THE POLISH PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC TO THE CO-CHAIRMEN OF THE GENEVA CONFERENCE ON LAOS, DATED 12 FEBRUARY 1971
1. Recent reports from Laos give rise to justified and grave concern. They reveal unparalleled intensification of the bombing of the territory of the Kingdom of Laos by the United States Air Force and violation of the Laotian frontier by the Saigon regime troops, covered by the air forces and supported by artillery and auxiliary services of the United States. Thus, the situation poses a threat of a further escalation, on a still far larger scale, of new aggressive actions from the territory of South Viet-Nam, where, close to the 17th parallel, the United States and Saigon troops have been concentrated. The violation of the territory of the Kingdom of Laos and preparation on a very large scale of military operations has brought about a growth of tension in the whole of Indochina and immensely complicated the internal situation of the Kingdoai of Laos. 2. As it is known, there appeared over the recent months in Laos a practical possibility of finding a political solution to the domestic problems of that country. Special envoy of the Chairman of the Central Committee of the Lao Patriotic Front, Prince Souphanouvong, visited Vientiane for several months and held talks with a view to initiating negotiations to prevent further bloodshed and spare Laos the tragic fate of Cambodia. Unfortunately, the aggressive action recently taken by the United States-Saigon troops against the Kingdom of Laos only too flagrantly resembles developments which had earlier brought the disaster of war upon Cambodia. As the result of these deplorable actions we are witnessing an aggravation of the internal situation and increasing mutual mistrust in Laos. They, indeed, paralyse efforts towards better mutual understanding and the endeavours, by the Laotian parties involved, aimed at a peaceful solution of their domestic problems. Consequently, new dangers have emerged of a further extension of military operations and engulfing Laos in new bloodshed. 3. Poland, as a signatory of the 1962 Geneva Agreements on Laos and member of the International Commission for Supervision and Control in Laos, estabTfsBel by terms of these agreements, has never relented in her efforts to seek for peaceful solutions to help spare Laos the tragedy of war. s/10117 English Page 3
The present violation of the territory and the air space of the Kingdom of Laos is a glaring contradiction of the basic provisions of the Geneva Agreements of 1962, accepted, as they were, also by the United States of America, and the Saigon side. Contrary to these obligations, the United States of America, in fact for a long tiae now, has been intervening in the internal affairs of Laos. This intervention resulted in 1964 in a rightist coup d'etat which overthrew the National Unity Government and upset the machinery of the tripartite agreements between the Laotian political groupings, the machinery which had laid the basis for the Geneva Agreements. It also paralysed the activity of the International Commission for Supervision and Control in~^SaT^o^ti^~°TF^hirt"lre'ry time the ''-.v™^,,^..^,,.,.^,.,^ United States of America started violating the""air space of that country and launched air raids against the areas controlled by the Laotian patriotic forces. On our part we have been repeatedly pointing out the tragic consequences of a political and military intervention of the kind. The United States intervention has pushed Laos into the tragedy of a civil war. The Kingdom of Laos has been turned into a scene of fratricidal warfare and is now facing a threat to share the fate of Viet-Kam and Cambodia. The responsibility for the present state of affairs rests with the United States of America. k. We cannot but deplore the United States policy towards Laos. It leads to a serious extension of the Indo-China war, to further bloodshed, untold sufferings of the population of the countries of the region and poisoning of the global international relations. It is the considered view of the Polish Government that the United States should refrain from all armed attacks against the Kingdom of Laos, stop its intervention in the internal affairs of that country and respect the undeniable right of the Laotian people to decide their own future, 5. The Polish Government hereby appeals to the Co-Chairmen of the^Gjgneva » " " Conference on Laos to use their utmost ~Tnfluence~to prevent tSe United States of AmericS^,^,,^!^^.*!!.**™*^a from escalatin^ g military operations in Indo-China and to induce it to refrain from any further aggresion against the Kingdom of Laos. English Page k
On its part, as member of the International Commission for Supervision and Control in Laos, the Polish Government is bound to reiterate its determination to spare no efforts to help seek for political solutio'ns in the interest of the Laotian people, regarding the International Commission in Laos as an important ^^..rg'^^i^'gaj^-reg^^sTsry^^ .,_ -ti^^fc^iWl0ijw-«\Ui!B5=nv--....f.,;.,,. instronent of exercising...a constructive role, pnce.ufavourable"'conditions to this effect arise. • " '""' :»-»-••**-— ! r
I UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATION PROM FRENCH RdeB/ksn
LETTER PROM THE SECRETARY-GENERAL TO PRINCE SOUVANNA PHOUMA OP LAOS:
Your Highness,
I thank you for the oral communication and for the documents
which were transmitted to me by your Charg£ d 'Affaires in Washington,
Mr. Lane Pathamavong. I have read carefully your message of 5 February
to the Co-Chairmen of the 1962 Geneva Conference on Laos and the
8 February statement issued by the Royal Government concerning the
South Viet-Namese incursion into Laos. I have also taken note of your
request that I use my good offices with the major Powers and the members
of the Geneva Conference. This matter is at present under careful study.
May I take this opportunity to tell you how distressed I am at
the present trend of events in the Kingdom of Laos and at the extent
of the death, destruction and devastation which is occurring on Laotian on several occasions soil. I have already appealed publicly( to all parties concerned to
His Highness Prince Souvanna Phouma Chairman of the Council and Minister for Foreign Affairs Vientiane Laos - 2 - respect the 1962 Agreements, and notably the provisions prohibiting the presence of foreign troops in Laos.
As I told you during our meeting of 22 October 1970, it is also my view that meaningful progress and the finding of a solution in the framework of the 1962 Agreements can be achieved only through negotiations between the two sides in Laos. It is my hope that the negotiations which --• , J were initiated in JL969 between Your Highness and Prince Souphanouvong will proceed and lead to a positive result. I am confident that, in "iLt,
stage, a meeting between p3.gaa3elGii!71U^^^K-^1"i8^*^5 n^ the two sides would constitute a great step forward. I believe that such a meeting should be held as soon as possible at a mutually Agreed location, ^" u~-*j-~5G:kLJ. ^ preferably under the auspices of His Majesty the King, who.iis held in the highest esteem and respect by all sides as well as by the international community.
Please accept, Your Highness, etc. ROUTING SLIP FICHE DE TRANSMISSION
FOR ACTION POUR SUITE A DONNER FOR APPROVAL POUR APPROBATION FOR SIGNATURE POUR SIGNATURE PREPARE DRAFT PROJET A REDIGER FOR COMMENTS POUR OBSERVATIONS MAY WE CONFER? POURRIONS-NOUS EN PARLER? YOUR ATTENTION VOTRE ATTENTION AS DISCUSSED COMME CONVENU AS REQUESTED SUITE A VOTRE DEMANDS NOTE AND FILE NOTER ET CLASSER NOTE AND RETURN NOTER ET RETOURNER FOR INFORMATION POUR INFORMATION
Unofficial translation of Prince Souvanna Fhouma's letter. L
Date: FROM: 22.iii.Tl DE: Rene" de Branche
CR. 13 (11-64) RO UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATION FROM FRENCH
k March 1971 Your Highness,
I thank you for the oral communication and for the documents which were transmitted to me by your Charg6 d'Affaires in Washington, Mr. Lane Pathamavong. I have read carefully your message of 5 February to the Co-Chairmen of the 1962 Geneva Conference on Laos and the 8 February statement issued by the Royal Government concerning the South Viet-Namese incursion into Laos. I have also taken note of your request that I use my good offices with the major Powers and the members of the Geneva Conference. This matter is at present under careful study. May I take this opportunity to tell you how distressed I am at the present trend of events in the Kingdom of Laos and at the extent of the death, destruction and devastation which is occurring on Laotian soil. I have already appealed publicly on several occasions to all parties concerned to respect the 1962 Agreements, and notably the provisions prohibiting the presence of foreign troops in Laos. As I told you during our meeting of 22 October 1970, it is also my view that meaningful progress and the finding of a solution in the framework of the 1962 Agreements can be achieved only through negotiations between the two sides in Laos. It is my hope that the negotiations which were initiated in 1969 between Your Highness and Prince Souphanouvong will proceed and lead to a positive result. I am confident that, in the first stage, a meeting between representatives of the two sides would constitute a great step forward. I believe that such a meeting -should be held as soon as possible at a mutually agreed location, preferably under the auspices of His Majesty the King who, I understand, is held in the highest esteem and respect by all sides as well as by the international community. Please accept, Your Highness, the assurances of my highest consideration.
U Thant Secretary-General His Highness Prince Souvanna Phouma Chairman of the Council and Minister for Foreign Affairs Vientiane Laos SdeB/ksn cc: Mr. 33arasiE&an Mr. de Branche
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KINGDOM OF LAOS No. 331/PC/PD CHAIRMAN OF THE COUNCIL OF MINISTERS Vientiane, 15 March 1971
Mr. Secretary-General, I have the honour to acknowledge your letter of k March 1971 "by vhich you were kind enough to express your concern for the problems of our country, and I am very grateful to you for this. As I told you during our meeting of September last and as you may realize from the various documents which have been given you by our Charge" d'Affaires, my position as well as that of the Royal Government of Laos remains unshakeably attached to neutrality and to the integral respect of the Geneva Agreements. The conflict and hostilities in Laos have their origin mostly outside the country and our repeated efforts to request the withdrawal of all foreign forces have remained unsuccessful until now. We are conscious that this withdrawal is a necessary prerequisite to the restoration of peace and we express our gratitude for the demarche which you have kindly initiated in this regard. v 0 r deepest desire as well as our most ardent wish is to dissociate the Laotian problem from its international context. Since the beginning we have dedicated ourselves to this task, convinced that an agreement achieved between Laotians would deprive foreigners of reasons to intervene. In this enter- prise we have never lost patience nor ceased our perseverance and efforts. A few days before I received your suggestion that I should meet with the Pathet Lao, I renewed my offer to Prince Souphanouvong to accept Luang Prabang as a place for negotiations. I am at present awaiting his reply. Mr. Secretary-General, the actions which you are undertaking at present on behalf of Laos are a source of great comfort to the Laotian people and the Royal Government. Through the prestige and the authority which are given them by your own personality and your position, these actions will not fail to bring concrete results. Please accept, Mr. Secretary-General, the assurances of my highest cons ideration. (Signed) Prince Souvanna Phoutna (Chao Krommana)
His Excellency U Thant Secretary-General of the United Nations ROYAUME DU LAOS JL I\K*~2.~J?...•£... /PC/PD
PRESIDENCE DU CONSEIL DES MINISTRES _ _ _ Vientiane, !e . J!
Monsieur le Secretaire General>
J'-ai 1'honneur d1 accuser reception de votre lettre en date du *4- Mars 1971 par laquelle vous aves "bien voulu montrer votre sollicitude a 1'egard des problemes de notre pays, ce dont je vous suis iiifiniment reconnaissant.
Gonuae je vous en avais fait part lors de notre rencontre en Septembre dernier et conime vous pouvez vous en rendre compte par les divers documents que vous avait remis notre Charge d'affaires, ma position comme celle du Gouvernement Royal du Laos demeure ine'cranlablement attachee a la Neutralite et au respect integral des Accords de Geneve.
Le conflit et les hostilites au Laos ont une origine essentiellement exterieure au pays et nos efforts renouveles pour deiaander le retrait de toutes les forces etrangeres sont restes vains jusqu'ici.
Son Excellence U THM'I, Secretaire General de 1'Organisation /2 des Nations Unies NEW YORK — 2 •—
Nous sommes conscients que ce retrait est le preala"ble necessaire pour la restauration tie la paix et nous expriinons notre gratitude pour les demarches que vous aviez "bien voulu initier dans ce sens.
Notre desir le plus profond conme notre souliait le plus ardent, est de dissocier le probleme lao dii contexte international. Nous sommes attaches a cette tache depuis les premiers jours, convaincus que 1'entente realisee entre les lao priverait les strangers d'uii motif d1 intervention. Dans cette entreprise nous n'avons jamais relache de patience, de parseverance e-t d'efforts.
Quelques jours avant que me parvienne votre suggestion de rencontrer le Patiiet Lao, j' ai renouvele mon offre au Prince Souphanouvong d1accepter Luang- Prabang comme lieu de negociation. J!attends actuel- lement sa reponse.
Monsieur le Secretaire General, les actions que vous entreprenez actuellement en faveur du Laos sont 1'obget d'un grand reconfort pour le Peuple Lao et le Gouverneraent Royal. Par le prestige, par 1'autorite que leur conferent votre personnalite propre et votre position, elles ne manqueront pas d'atteindre des resultats concrets.
Veuillez agreer, Monsieur le Secretaire General, les assurgg££j_ de ma -tres haute consideration.^
I'HGUMA Erommana) TRAUSIATIQW FHOM F8ENCH BdeB/ksa
KHTGDCM OF IAOS Wo. 331/KJ/ED OF THE COUNCIL OF MINISTERS Vientiane, 15 March 1971
Mr. Secretary-General, I have the honour to acknowledge your letter of 4 March 1971 lay -which yoa were kind enough to express your concern for the problems of our country, and I em very grateful to you for this. As I told you during our meeting of September last and as you stay realize from the various documents tjhtch hove bees given you "by our Charg£ d 'Affaires, ay position as veil as that of the Royal Government of Laos remains unshakeably attached to neutrality and to the integral respect of the Geneva Agreements. The conflict and hostilities in Laos have their origin mostly outside the country and our repeated efforts to request the withdrawal of all foreign forces have remained unsuccessful until now, tfe are conscious that this withdrawal is & necessary gc-eretiuisite to the restoration of peace and we express our gratitude for the demarche vhich you have kindly initiated in this regard* w O^r deepest desire as veil as our most ardent wish is to dissociate- the taotian problem from its international context. Since the beginning we have dedicated ourselves to tills task, convinced that an agreement achieved between Laotians would deprive foreigners of reasons to intervene. In this enter- prise tie have never lost patience nor ceased our perseverance and efforts. A few days before I received your suggestion that I should meet with the Eathet Iao» I renewed my offer to Prince Souphanouvong to accept Luang Prabang as a place for negotiations. I am at present awaiting his reply. Mr. Secretary-General, the actions vhich you are undertaking at present on behalf of Laos are a source of great comfort to the Laotian people and the Royal Government, fhrough the prestige and the authority iJhich are given them by your own personality aad your posit iont these actions vill not fail to bring concrete results. Please accept, Mr. Secretary-General, the assurances of my highest consideration. (Signed) Prince Souvaima Phouraa (Chao Kroramana)
His Excellency Secretary-General of the United nations cs»x
UNITED NATIONS OFFICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION EXTERNAL RELATIONS DIVISION INFORMATION SUPPORT SECTION (For Secretariat Use Only) 25 March 1971 (Second Report) SPECIAL REPORT ON THE FRENCH LANGUAGE PRESS
SOUVANNA PHOUMA SAYS SOUPHANOUVONG REFUSES TO TALK
AFP-EEE-57
VInNTIANE, MARCH 25 (AFP)- PATH ET LAO LEADER PRINCE SOUPHA- NOUVONG HAS AGAIN REFUSsD TO L EV £L TALKS UNTIL AIR STRIKE HAVE BE-N SUSPENDED, PR EMI JR SOUVANNA PHOUMA TOLD AFP TODAY. PRINCE PHOUMA SAID TH E PATH IT LAO MESSAGE WHICH REACHED H Si TUESDAY WAS IK ANSW 2R TO AN UNPUBLICIS ED OFF5R BY HIM ON MARCH 1 PROPOSING TO MEET PR INC E SOUPHANOUVONG IN LUANG PRA- BANG WITHOUT ANY PRECONDITIONS. "SOUPHANOUVONG AGAIh DEMANDS THE CESSATION OF ALL BOMBINGS AND TH E WITHDRAWAL OF ALL THAI AND AMERICAN FORCES FROM LAOS, BUT HE DOES K/OT SAY A WORD ABOUT THE PRESENCE OF NORTH VIETNA- MESE TROOPS "HER EJECTS LUANG PRABANG AS A VENUE FOR THE PROPOSED TALKS UNTIL ALL BOMBINGS HAVE STOPPED- AN UNACCEPTABLE CONDITION AS FAR AS WE AR E CONCERNED", SAID TH E PR EMI ER . PRINCE SOUVANKA PHOUMA, ADD ED THAT IN HIS VIFW THE-NORTH VIETNA- MESE AND THE PATHET LAO F aT CONFIDENT THAT THE MILITARY SI- TUATION HAS IMPROVED IN THEIR FAVOUR. THAT IS THE REASON WHY SOUPHANOUVONG DOES .JOT WANT TALKS NOW AND LAYS DOWN UNACCEPTABLE CONDITIONS, ;: ,; : - ,,> ;. H May 1971
PEESQKAL .AMD
My dear U J As discussed yesterday I am sending* herewith, copies of iny correspondence with Prime Minister Souvanna Phouma. I would be grateful if you could please inform me of developments concerning the dialogue which I have suggested to the Prime Minister. Mrs* Thant also is sending to U Thaung a packet and a letter. We are most appreciative of your offer to take them with you, - - With best wishes, •;._ •:- ' "• '•••- Yours sincerely,
U Thant
B Uyutt Executive Secretary ECAFE . : L^Nc. 2 / J-EV (AFP) : CO IP -.^PONDAivT BE L' :? MAX '-COIFFAITJ L£l LAOS OEMAND/RA'OFFIGIELLSM^NT ^A^El^AINE PR OC HA I.ME A: SiTCRITAIRE "DFS L£ RESPECT'DES ACCORDS DE GtNiVE DE 1962 kT LE RETR-AIT-'.QE TOUTES LES FCRCES OPERA NT AU^ LAOS, A DE0LARE. S A MED I A VIE NT IA ME PR I ICE SOUVANNA PHCW.miv^E.MI.ER.'.KFIfJiSTSE DU LAOS, CEfTE DEHANDE 3ER.A .PRESENtEE A M« D'ETRE NOMME E T AMBASSADEUR "DU LAOS A WASHI?«TOM. A PR OP OS DE LA SITUATION A L' INTrR IEUR • BE LA. ZONE GOUVER- - fCMENTALE OU LfETAT D^URGENCE A ET^ UECRETE BEPUIS LE. i2 I , LE PREMIER MINJSTRF. A EXPL1QOE FM SUBSTANCE ¥UE LES ETATS-UNIS ETAIENT DECIDES A METTHE UN TER ME A LEUR PRESENCI K -. EN IKDOCHINE ET QUE LE PEUPUT. LA fit IE N DEVAIT COMPTER TOUT SUR LUI-ME-ME* IL A D'AILLZURS CITE EN EXEMPLE ISRAEL QUI, AVE.C UNE POPULATION SENSIBLE ME NT EGALE A CELLE DU LAOS FMT"^ACE AVEC SES PROPRSS MOYFNS A UN£ SITUATION DANGEREUSE. & ^ " LE$ ACCOtDS DE GENEVE DE 1962 IOTERDISEJ^'"N'OTAMMENT LfIW- UK?*&., * /• TRODUCTION A0 LAOS DE TROUPES ETRANGERES REGULIERES OU IRREGU- it/ limtS £T DE'MATERIEL B£ GUERRE A L'EXCEPTION DES AR ME ME NTS DE TYPE CLASSIfilUE NECJ^SSAIRES A LA DEFENSE NAT. 10HALE DU LAOSi. r%< ,'- AFP T* - , , , ,. > . , v:;;v:;.y. . :-, ^1' NNNN NOR833 E PC 73 6 102 1 s INDOCHINA—APPEAL * ' * "S BY IAN NACK£N,ZT£. ; VIENTIANE, LAOS, MARCH 1, 'R -- PRIME MIMIST: -~ ."~ ^> iD j^ • . T11' ir L ~.~ j- SOUVANMA PHOUMA HAS APPEALED TO U.IJ. SEC \L LJ_T::ANT TO INTERVENE PERSONALLY WITH TIE BIG PO.UERS TO .LC LL-i- i . [E JITHDRAUAL OF ALL FOREIGN TROOPS FROM THE KINGDOM, THE FFICIAL AGENCE LAO PRESS REPORTED TODAY. HE ASKED THANT TO URGE THE BIG POWER S TO RESPECT THE 1962 GEiJEVA CONVENTION WHICH GUARANTEED THE NEUTRALI TY OF L AO S« MORE JF(NV)JDC NNNN - - . - MORS35 EPI'2'OS- . . 102<5 S IWDOCIIIHA-.-- APPEAL' 2 VIENTIANE "' s •CMOR;;E33K . ' THE PLEA-UAS-PASSED ON- TO THA1JT THROUGH THE LAOTIAN REPRESENTATIVE AT THE'UNITED "NATIONS, THE AGENCY SAID. "". •-'.-:: LAO- PRESS 'SAID PHOUNA-ANNOUNCED THE APPEAL DURING A SPEECH'"TO" TWO LAOTIAN GROUPS Hi VIENTIANE, •- ,' HE- SAID THE>'.SOyTtf.VIETNAMESE INCURSION. INTO SOUTHERN LAOS RE^ULTE'D^-TROM NORTH;.yiETHAlC:SE AGGRESSION AGAINST THE LAOTIAN 'ikllK^PM,-- THE--AGENCY^SAID-. -. i .,v--rr-*THE pRIt^E MINISTER ALSO APPEALED TO THE LAOTIAN 'PEOPLE TO . HELP.:THE ARMY SO THAT'-EVERYONE MIGHT 7ACE THE CURRENT - • .WAR' SITU AT I ON,----- :,-'•" rrREJJSE-R^-;C;NY)':'J5VBJW- • . -' -'-' '.