April 29, 1969
Discussion between Li Xiannian and Le Duc Tho
LI XIANNIAN AND LE DUC THO
Beijing, 29 April 1969
Li Xiannian: The problem in the war in South Vietnam is not that of a big or a small victory but of the final [victory]. I still recall Vice-Chairman Lin Biao stressing the word “patience.” The final victory depends on fighting. According to our experience, the victory cannot be gained at the negotiating table. We have to be determined to fight the enemy until he has nothing else to resort to. In all, negotiation is of secondary importance with a view to exposing the enemy’s schemes and we have to rely on fighting with a view to annihilating the enemy. This is our experience.
Li Xiannian advises South Vietnam toward a total victory and regards negotiation as of secondary importance.
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