Cambodia

Press, 28 December 1989, Page 16

Cambodia

Sir,—John Pilger, in his latest television documentary on Cambodia, lays down a challenge to us. Why does New Zealand insist on a Cambodian Government which includes the Khmer Rouge? Why can’t we give simple diplomatic recognition to the incumbent Hun Sen Government and: help in the development of that impoverished country? When New Zealand adopted its anti-nuclear policy, many of its hoped it wouAd take an independent stance In other peace

issues. Sadly, the Labour Government follows in the footsteps-of America on most world questions, including Cambodia. Scoring Cold War points against Leftwing Governments, like that in Cambodia, is still the name 'Of the game. We are supposed to forget that Khmer Rouge soldiers are killing hundreds of people in attacks from Thai bases. If Pol Pot gets back into power there will be mass slaughter. Why can’t we look at international issues from a moral standpoint? The people dying unnecessarily in Cambodia and Panama should be our first concern. — Yours, etc.,

KEITH LOCKE. N.L.P. Foreign Affairs Spokesperson. December 22, 1989.

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