The Press FRIDAY, MAY 16, 1969. Mr Nixon’s Formula

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 31989, 16 May 1969, Page 10

The Press FRIDAY, MAY 16, 1969. Mr Nixon’s Formula

In the most detailed statement of his views on South Vietnam that he has given since his inauguration, President Nixon has spelt out the terms which the United States would regard as an acceptable settlement of the conflict. Although he has suggested that both North Vietnamese and American forces should be withdrawn in 12 months—the first time he has specified the period of withdrawal—President Nixon envisages some American forces being still in South Vietnam at the end of this 12-month period. The North Vietnamese and the National Liberation Front may well jib at that. Hanoi will also demur at withdrawing all forces from Cambodia and Laos; the North Vietnamese believe, with some cause, that the whole of Laos may soon be “ persuaded ” to join the Communist camp. However, North Vietnam has not rejected President Nixon’s statement; and there have been indications in the last week or two from both North and South Vietnam that a settlement along these lines is at last possible. The Prime Minister of North Vietnam, Mr Pham Van Dong, said recently that the only path the United States could follow was to “ continue to de-escalate the war ” —the north’s first reference to de-escalation by the United States—and President Thieu of South Vietnam has been more accommodating in his recent references to free elections after the fighting is over. Indeed, study of the latest speeches from both North and South Vietnam suggests that all parties might now be ready at accept a settlement along the lines suggested by President Nixon. Perhaps he has already had unofficial assurances to this effect.