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9605597
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122246655
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9605597
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Case Number: 2015-0530-S
SYSTEMATIC
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the Clinton Presidential
Library Staff.
Original OA/ID Number:
1117
Document ID:
9605597
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
Stack:
45
1
8
2
V
UNCLASSIFIED
RECORD ID: 9605597
NSC/RMO PROFILE
RECEIVED: 14 AUG 96 15
TO: BERMAN, HOWARD L
ET AL
FROM: PRESIDENT
DOC DATE: 24 AUG 96
SOURCE REF:
KEYWORDS: LEGAL ISSUES
VIETNAM
HUMAN RIGHTS
CO
PERSONS: TRAN, BINH
SUBJECT: LTR RE CASE OF BINH TRAN & NEED TO PROTECT AMERICAN CITIZENS
ABROAD
ACTION: FOR DISPATCH
DUE DATE: 17 AUG 96 STATUS: C
STAFF OFFICER: KRISTOFF
LOGREF:
FILES: WH
NSCP:
CODES:
DOCUMENT DISTRIBUTION
FOR ACTION
FOR CONCURRENCE
FOR INFO
WH STRIPPING DESK
DANVERS
KRISTOFF
)
Chron
COMMENTS:
DISPATCHED BY La
DATE
BY HAND W/ATTCH
OPENED BY: NSTMH
CLOSED BY: NSLA
DOC 4 OF 4
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
RECORD ID: 9605597
ACTION DATA SUMMARY REPORT
DOC ACTION OFFICER
CAO ASSIGNED ACTION REQUIRED
001 KRECZKO
Z 96081415 PREPARE MEMO FOR LAKE
001
Z 96081509 ACTION TRANSFERRED
001 KRISTOFF
Z 96081509 PREPARE MEMO FOR LAKE
002 LAKE
Z 96082111 FWD TO PRESIDENT FOR SIG
003 PRESIDENT
Z 96082413 FOR SIGNATURE
004
X 96082717 PRESIDENT SGD LTR
004 WH STRIPPING DESK
X 96082717 FOR DISPATCH
DISPATCH DATA SUMMARY REPORT
DOC
DATE
DISPATCH FOR ACTION
DISPATCH FOR INFO
003 960823
VICE PRESIDENT
003 960823
WH CHIEF OF STAFF
004 960824 ROYCE, ED
CIA
004
960824 TORRES, ESTEBAN E
STATE
004 960824 SMITH, CHRISTOPHER H
DEFENSE
004 960824 SHAYS, CHRISTOPHER
004 960824 ROYBAL-ALLARD, LUCILLE
004 960824 PORTER, JOHN E
004 960824 OLVER, JOHN
004
960824 MCKINNEY, CYNTHIA A
004 960824 LOFGREN, ZOE
004 960824 LEVIN, SANDER M
004 960824 LANTOS, TOM
004
960824 CUNNINGHAM, RANDY "DUKE"
004 960824 BERMAN, HOWARD L
004
960824 HILLIARD, EARL F
004 960824 EHLERS, VERNON
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
RECORD ID: 9605597
NSC/RMO PROFILE
RECEIVED: 14 AUG 96 15
TO: PRESIDENT
FROM: ROYCE, ED
DOC DATE: 06 AUG 96
PORTER, JOHN E
SOURCE REF:
LEVIN, SANDER M
KEYWORDS: LEGAL ISSUES
VIETNAM
HUMAN RIGHTS
CO
PERSONS: TRAN, BINH
SUBJECT: PRES TAKE ACTION TO PERSUADE VIETNAM TO ALLOW TRAN TO LEAVE COUNTRY
ACTION: PREPARE MEMO FOR LAKE
DUE DATE: 17 AUG 96 STATUS: S
STAFF OFFICER: KRECZKO
LOGREF:
FILES: WH
NSCP:
CODES:
DOCUMENT DISTRIBUTION
FOR ACTION
FOR CONCURRENCE
FOR INFO
KRECZKO
CLARKE
APPEL
Entasia
DANVERS
BEERS
KRISTOFF
HARMON
SCHWARTZ
LORIN
Kristoff
Kreezhe
MALLEY
SENS
SESTAK
COMMENTS:
DISPATCHED BY
DATE
BY HAND W/ATTCH
OPENED BY: NSTMH
CLOSED BY:
DOC 1 OF 1
UNCLASSIFIED
]
National Security Council
The White House
PROOFED BY:
LOG #
5597
URGENT NOT PROOFED:
SYSTEM PRS NSC INT ARS
BYPASSED WW DESK:
DOCLOG TmH A/O
SEQUENCE TO
INITIAL/DATE
DISPOSITION
Harmon
/
A
Dohse
Sens
Soderberg
Berger
Lake
Situation Room
West Wing Desk
2
TMH 8.27
D
Records Mgt.
3
D
A = Action
I = Information
D = Dispatch
R = Retain
N = No Further Action
CC:
COMMENTS:
?
Date Aug24, 1996
Exec Sec Office has diskette
]
-
RECD 4:15 pm 8/21
National Security Council
The White House
PROOFED BY:
LOG # 5597
URGENT NOT PROOFED:
SYSTEM PRS NSC INT ARS
BYPASSED WW DESK:
DOCLOG ASK A/O
YS
SEQUENCE TO
INITIAL/DATE
DISPOSITION
Harmon
1
to
Dohse
Sens
Soderberg
P
M
Berger
7
who <y
Lake
Nati Sec Advisor
Situation Room
has seen
West Wing Desk
if
Records Mgt.
S
DPS 622 Bstern Dwallar
WHS 8/24
A = Action
I = Information
D = Dispatch
R = Retain
N = No Further Action
CC:
5/21
COMMENTS:
typer done
Exec Sec Office has diskette yes
[
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
August 24, 1996
Dear Representative Royce:
Thank you for your letter concerning the case of Mrs. Binh Tran
and the need to protect American citizens arrested abroad. The
task of helping Americans who are arrested overseas is one of the
most important respousibilities of the State Department and our
embassies. We are committed to fulfilling this responsibility,
which includes periodic visits by consular officers, monitoring
emergency dietary and medical needs and acting as a liaison with
family members. This is true whether the American is arrested in
Vietnam or elsewhere.
Mrs. Tran was arrested in Ho Chi Minh City by the Vietnamese
authorities in October 1993 on charges of tax evasion on the
export of cigarettes. In June 1995, she was sentenced to four
years imprisonment and a $182,000 fine. On April 24, 1996, she
was released following a request by the U.S. Embassy based on her
poor health. She has not been permitted to leave Vietnam pending
payment of the fine. We have sent a letter to the local court on
her behalf and have raised her case with the Vietnamese Foreign
Ministry, most recently in late July. We are urging the
Vietnamese to allow Mrs. Tran to return to the United States on
her own recognizance and, at a minimum, ensure she is not sent
back to jail while the case is being reviewed by the Foreign
Ministry. We will continue to pursue this case with the Hanoi
government.
You mentioned ten other U.S. citizens or lawful residents who may
be imprisoned in Vietnam. We are aware of only five. In each of
these cases, our consular officers visited the imprisoned
individuals, most recently in April and August, and are doing
their utmost to protect each against possible abuses.
Anthony Lake, my National Security Advisor, raised the issue of
human rights protections during his July visit to Vietnam. You
can be sure we will continue our dialogue on human rights issues
and press for Vietnam's adherence to international norms of human
rights protection and expression of political views.
2
I share your interest in providing the best possible services for
Americans who are arrested or otherwise harmed during overseas
travel. My Administration will continue to respond to each and
every case, quickly and thoroughly.
Sincerely,
Biu Crinton
The Honorable Edward R. Royce
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515-2307
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
August 24, 1996
Dear Esteban:
Thank you for your letter concerning the case of Mrs. Binh Tran
and the need to protect American citizens arrested abroad. The
task of helping Americans who are arrested overseas is one of the
most important responsibilities of the State Department and our
embassies. We are committed to fulfilling this responsibility,
which includes periodic visits by consular officers, monitoring
emergency dietary and medical needs and acting as a liaison with
family members. This is true whether the American is arrested in
Vietnam or elsewhere.
Mrs. Tran was arrested in Ho Chi Minh City by the Vietnamese
authorities in October 1993 on charges of tax evasion on the
export of cigarettes. In June 1995, she was sentenced to four
years imprisonment and a $182,000 fine. On April 24, 1996, she
was released following a request by the U.S. Embassy based on her
poor health. She has not been permitted to leave Vietnam pending
payment of the fine. We have sent a letter to the local court on
her behalf and have raised her case with the Vietnamese Foreign
Ministry, most recently in late July. We are urging the
Vietnamese to allow Mrs. Tran to return to the United States on
her own recognizance and, at a minimum, ensure she is not sent
back to jail while the case is being reviewed by the Foreign
Ministry. We will continue to pursue this case with the Hanoi
government.
You mentioned ten other U.S. citizens or lawful residents who may
be imprisoned in Vietnam. We are aware of only five. In each of
these cases, our consular officers visited the imprisoned
individuals, most recently in April and August, and are doing
their utmost to protect each against possible abuses.
Anthony Lake, my National Security Advisor, raised the issue of
human rights protections during his July visit to Vietnam. You
can be sure we will continue our dialogue on human rights issues
and press for Vietnam's adherence to international norms of human
rights protection and expression of political views.
2
I share your interest in providing the best possible services for
Americans who are arrested or otherwise harmed during overseas
travel. My Administration will continue to respond to each and
every case, quickly and thoroughly.
Sincerely,
Biu
The Honorable Esteban Edward Torres
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515-1801
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
August 24, 1996
Dear Representative Smith:
Thank you for your letter concerning the case of Mrs. Binh Tran
and the need to protect American citizens arrested abroad. The
task of helping Americans who are arrested overseas is one of the
most important responsibilities of the State Department and our
embassies. We are committed to fulfilling this responsibility,
which includes periodic visits by consular officers, monitoring
emergency dietary and medical needs and acting as a liaison with
family members. This is true whether the American is arrested in
Vietnam or elsewhere.
Mrs. Tran was arrested in Ho Chi Minh City by the Vietnamese
authorities in October 1993 on charges of tax evasion on the
export of cigarettes. In June 1995, she was sentenced to four
years imprisonment and a $182,000 fine. On April 24, 1996, she
was released following a request by the U.S. Embassy based on her
poor health. She has not been permitted to leave Vietnam pending
payment of the fine. We have sent a letter to the local court on
her behalf and have raised her case with the Vietnamese Foreign
Ministry, most recently in late July. We are urging the
Vietnamese to allow Mrs. Tran to return to the United States on
her own recognizance and, at a minimum, ensure she is not sent
back to jail while the case is being reviewed by the Foreign
Ministry. We will continue to pursue this case with the Hanoi
government.
You mentioned ten other U.S. citizens or lawful residents who may
be imprisoned in Vietnam. We are aware of only five. In each of
these cases, our consular officers visited the imprisoned
individuals, most recently in April and August, and are doing
their utmost to protect each against possible abuses.
Anthony Lake, my National Security Advisor, raised the issue of
human rights protections during his July visit to Vietnam. You
can be sure we will continue our dialogue on human rights issues
and press for Vietnam's adherence to international norms of human
rights protection and expression of political views.
2
I share your interest in providing the best possible services for
Americans who are arrested or otherwise harmed during overseas
travel. My Administration will continue to respond to each and
every case, quickly and thoroughly.
Sincerely,
Biu Crinton
The Honorable Christopher H. Smith
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515-3810
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
August 24, 1996
Dear Representative Shays:
Thank you for your letter concerning the case of Mrs. Binh Tran
and the need to protect American citizens arrested abroad. The
task of helping Americans who are arrested overseas is one of the
most important responsibilities of the State Department and our
embassies. We are committed to fulfilling this responsibility,
which includes periodic visits by consular officers, monitoring
emergency dietary and medical needs and acting as a liaison with
family members. This is true whether the American is arrested in
Vietnam or elsewhere.
Mrs. Tran was arrested in Ho Chi Minh City by the Vietnamese
authorities in October 1993 on charges of tax evasion on the
export of cigarettes. In June 1995, she was sentenced to four
years imprisonment and a $182,000 fine. On April 24, 1996, she
was released following a request by the U.S. Embassy based on her
poor health. She has not been permitted to leave Vietnam pending
payment of the fine. We have sent a letter to the local court on
her behalf and have raised her case with the Vietnamese Foreign
Ministry, most recently in late July. We are urging the
Vietnamese to allow Mrs. Tran to return to the United States on
her own recognizance and, at a minimum, ensure she is not sent
back to jail while the case is being reviewed by the Foreign
Ministry. We will continue to pursue this case with the Hanoi
government.
You mentioned ten other U.S. citizens or lawful residents who may
be imprisoned in Vietnam. We are aware of only five. In each of
these cases, our consular officers visited the imprisoned
individuals, most recently in April and August, and are doing
their utmost to protect each against possible abuses.
Anthony Lake, my National Security Advisor, raised the issue of
human rights protections during his July visit to Vietnam. You
can be sure we will continue our dialogue on human rights issues
and press for Vietnam's adherence to international norms of human
rights protection and expression of political views.
2
I share your interest in providing the best possible services for
Americans who are arrested or otherwise harmed during overseas
travel. My Administration will continue to respond to each and
every case, quickly and thoroughly.
Sincerely,
Biu Crinton
The Honorable Christopher Shays
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515-4702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
August 24, 1996
Dear Lucille:
Thank you for your letter concerning the case of Mrs. Binh Tran
and the need to protect American citizens arrested abroad. The
task of helping Americans who are arrested overseas is one of the
most important responsibilities of the State Department and our
embassies. We are committed to fulfilling this responsibility,
which includes periodic visits by consular officers, monitoring
emergency dietary and medical needs and acting as a liaison with
family members. This is true whether the American is arrested in
Vietnam or elsewhere.
Mrs. Tran was arrested in Ho Chi Minh City by the Vietnamese
authorities in October 1993 on charges of tax evasion on the
export of cigarettes. In June 1995, she was sentenced to four
years imprisonment and a $182,000 fine. On April 24, 1996, she
was released following a request by the U.S. Embassy based on her
poor health. She has not been permitted to leave Vietnam pending
payment of the fine. We have sent a letter to the local court on
her behalf and have raised her case with the Vietnamese Foreign
Ministry, most recently in late July. We are urging the
Vietnamese to allow Mrs. Tran to return to the United States on
her own recognizance and, at a minimum, ensure she is not sent
back to jail while the case is being reviewed by the Foreign
Ministry. We will continue to pursue this case with the Hanoi
government.
You mentioned ten other U.S. citizens or lawful residents who may
be imprisoned in Vietnam. We are aware of only five. In each of
these cases, our consular officers visited the imprisoned
individuals, most recently in April and August, and are doing
their utmost to protect each against possible abuses.
Anthony Lake, my National Security Advisor, raised the issue of
human rights protections during his July visit to Vietnam. You
can be sure we will continue our dialogue on human rights issues
and press for Vietnam's adherence to international norms of human
rights protection and expression of political views.
2
I share your interest in providing the best possible services for
Americans who are arrested or otherwise harmed during overseas
travel. My Administration will continue to respond to each and
every case, quickly and thoroughly.
Sincerely,
Biu
The Honorable Lucille Roybal-Allard
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515-0533
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
August 24, 1996
Dear Representative Porter:
Thank you for your letter concerning the case of Mrs. Binh Tran
and the need to protect American citizens arrested abroad. The
task of helping Americans who are arrested overseas is one of the
most important responsibilities of the State Department and our
embassies. We are committed to fulfilling this responsibility,
which includes periodic visits by consular officers, monitoring
emergency dietary and medical needs and acting as a liaison with
family members. This is true whether the American is arrested in
Vietnam or elsewhere.
Mrs. Tran was arrested in Ho Chi Minh City by the Vietnamese
authorities in October 1993 on charges of tax evasion on the
export of cigarettes. In June 1995, she was sentenced to four
years imprisonment and a $182, 000 fine. On April 24, 1996, she
was released following a request by the U.S. Embassy based on her
poor health. She has not been permitted to leave Vietnam pending
payment of the fine. We have sent a letter to the local court on
her behalf and have raised her case with the Vietnamese Foreign
Ministry, most recently in late July. We are urging the
Vietnamese to allow Mrs. Tran to return to the United States on
her own recognizance and, at a minimum, ensure she is not sent
back to jail while the case is being reviewed by the Foreign
Ministry. We will continue to pursue this case with the Hanoi
government.
You mentioned ten other U.S. citizens or lawful residents who may
be imprisoned in Vietnam. We are aware of only five. In each of
these cases, our consular officers visited the imprisoned
individuals, most recently in April and August, and are doing
their utmost to protect each against possible abuses.
Anthony Lake, my National Security Advisor, raised the issue of
human rights protections during his July visit to Vietnam. You
can be sure we will continue our dialogue on human rights issues
and press for Vietnam's adherence to international norms of human
rights protection and expression of political views.
2
I share your interest in providing the best possible services for
Americans who are arrested or otherwise harmed during overseas
travel. My Administration will continue to respond to each and
every case, quickly and thoroughly.
Sincerely,
Biu Crinton
The Honorable John Edward Porter
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515-1504
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
August 24, 1996
Dear John:
Thank you for your letter concerning the case of Mrs. Binh Tran
and the need to protect American citizens arrested abroad. The
task of helping Americans who are arrested overseas is one of the
most important responsibilities of the State Department and our
embassies. We are committed to fulfilling this responsibility,
which includes periodic visits by consular officers, monitoring
emergency dietary and medical needs and acting as a liaison with
family members. This is true whether the American is arrested in
Vietnam or elsewhere.
Mrs. Tran was arrested in Ho Chi Minh City by the Vietnamese
authorities in October 1993 on charges of tax evasion on the
export of cigarettes. In June 1995, she was sentenced to four
years imprisonment and a $182, 000 fine. On April 24, 1996, she
was released following a request by the U.S. Embassy based on her
poor health. She has not been permitted to leave Vietnam pending
payment of the fine. We have sent a letter to the local court on
her behalf and have raised her case with the Vietnamese Foreign
Ministry, most recently in late July. We are urging the
Vietnamese to allow Mrs. Tran to return to the United States on
her own recognizance and, at a minimum, ensure she is not sent
back to jail while the case is being reviewed by the Foreign
Ministry. We will continue to pursue this case with the Hanoi
government.
You mentioned ten other U.S. citizens or lawful residents who may
be imprisoned in Vietnam. We are aware of only five. In each of
these cases, our consular officers visited the imprisoned
individuals, most recently in April and August, and are doing
their utmost to protect each against possible abuses.
Anthony Lake, my National Security Advisor, raised the issue of
human rights protections during his July visit to Vietnam. You
can be sure we will continue our dialogue on human rights issues
and press for Vietnam's adherence to international norms of human
rights protection and expression of political views.
2
I share your interest in providing the best possible services for
Americans who are arrested or otherwise harmed during overseas
travel. My Administration will continue to respond to each and
every case, quickly and thoroughly.
Sincerely,
Biu
The Honorable John W. Olver
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515-0545
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
August 24, 1996
Dear Cynthia:
Thank you for your letter concerning the case of Mrs. Binh Tran
and the need to protect American citizens arrested abroad. The
task of helping Americans who are arrested overseas is one of the
most important responsibilities of the State Department and our
embassies. We are committed to fulfilling this responsibility,
which includes periodic visits by consular officers, monitoring
emergency dietary and medical needs and acting as a liaison with
family members. This is true whether the American is arrested in
Vietnam or elsewhere.
Mrs. Tran was arrested in Ho Chi Minh City by the Vietnamese
authorities in October 1993 on charges of tax evasion on the
export of cigarettes. In June 1995, she was sentenced to four
years imprisonment and a $182, fine. On April 24, 1996, she
was released following a request by the U.S. Embassy based on her
poor health. She has not been permitted to leave Vietnam pending
payment of the fine. We have sent a letter to the local court on
her behalf and have raised her case with the Vietnamese Foreign
Ministry, most recently in late July. We are urging the
Vietnamese to allow Mrs. Tran to return to the United States on
her own recognizance and, at a minimum, ensure she is not sent
back to jail while the case is being reviewed by the Foreign
Ministry. We will continue to pursue this case with the Hanoi
government.
You mentioned ten other U.S. citizens or lawful residents who may
be imprisoned in Vietnam. We are aware of only five. In each of
these cases, our consular officers visited the imprisoned
individuals, most recently in April and August, and are doing
their utmost to protect each against possible abuses.
Anthony Lake, my National Security Advisor, raised the issue of
human rights protections during his July visit to Vietnam. You
can be sure we will continue our dialogue on human rights issues
and press for Vietnam's adherence to international norms of human
rights protection and expression of political views.
2
I share your interest in providing the best possible services for
Americans who are arrested or otherwise harmed during overseas
travel. My Administration will continue to respond to each and
every case, quickly and thoroughly.
Sincerely,
Biu
The Honorable Cynthia A. McKinney
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515-1011
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
August 24, 1996
Dear Zoe:
Thank you for your letter concerning the case of Mrs. Binh Tran
and the need to protect American citizens arrested abroad. The
task of helping Americans who are arrested overseas is one of the
most important responsibilities of the State Department and our
embassies. We are committed to fulfilling this responsibility,
which includes periodic visits by consular officers, monitoring
emergency dietary and medical needs and acting as a liaison with
family members. This is true whether the American is arrested in
Vietnam or elsewhere.
Mrs. Tran was arrested in Ho Chi Minh City by the Vietnamese
authorities in October 1993 on charges of tax evasion on the
export of cigarettes. In June 1995, she was sentenced to four
years imprisonment and a $182, 000 fine. On April 24, 1996, she
was released following a request by the U.S. Embassy based on her
poor health. She has not been permitted to leave Vietnam pending
payment of the fine. We have sent a letter to the local court on
her behalf and have raised her case with the Vietnamese Foreign
Ministry, most recently in late July. We are urging the
Vietnamese to allow Mrs. Tran to return to the United States on
her own recognizance and, at a minimum, ensure she is not sent
back to jail while the case is being reviewed by the Foreign
Ministry. We will continue to pursue this case with the Hanoi
government.
You mentioned ten other U.S. citizens or lawful residents who may
be imprisoned in Vietnam. We are aware of only five. In each of
these cases, our consular officers visited the imprisoned
individuals, most recently in April and August, and are doing
their utmost to protect each against possible abuses.
Anthony Lake, my National Security Advisor, raised the issue of
human rights protections during his July visit to Vietnam. You
can be sure we will continue our dialogue on human rights issues
and press for Vietnam's adherence to international norms of human
rights protection and expression of political views.
2
I share your interest in providing the best possible services for
Americans who are arrested or otherwise harmed during overseas
travel. My Administration will continue to respond to each and
every case, quickly and thoroughly.
Sincerely,
Biu
The Honorable Zoe Lofgren
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515-3203
THE WHITE not SE
WASHINGTON
August 24, 1996
Dear Sandy:
Thank you for your letter concerning the case of Mrs. Binh Tran
and the need to protect American citizens arrested abroad. The
task of helping Americans who are arrested overseas is one of the
most important responsibilities of the State Department and our
embassies. We are committed to fulfilling this responsibility,
which includes periodic visits by consular officers, monitoring
emergency dietary and medical needs and acting as a liaison with
family members. This 1S true whether the American is arrested in
Vietnam or elsewhere.
Mrs. Tran was arrested in Ho Chi Minh City by the Vietnamese
authorities in October 1993 on charges of tax evasion on the
export of cigarettes. In June 1995, she was sentenced to four
years imprisonment and a $182, 000 fine. On April 24, 1996, she
was released following a request by the U.S. Embassy based on her
poor health. She has not been permitted to leave Vietnam pending
payment of the fine. We have sent a letter to the local court on
her behalf and have raised her case with the Vietnamese Foreign
Ministry, most recently in late July. We are urging the
Vietnamese to allow Mrs. Tran to return to the United States on
her own recognizance and, at a minimum, ensure she is not sent
back to jail while the case is being reviewed by the Foreign
Ministry. We will continue to pursue this case with the Hanoi
government.
You mentioned ten other U.S. citizens or lawful residents who may
be imprisoned in Vietnam. We are aware of only five. In each of
these cases, our consular officers visited the imprisoned
individuals, most recently in April and August, and are doing
their utmost to protect each against possible abuses.
Anthony Lake, my National Security Advisor, raised the issue of
human rights protections during his July visit to Vietnam. You
can be sure we will continue our dialogue on human rights issues
and press for Vietnam's adherence to international norms of human
rights protection and expression of political views.
2
I share your interest in providing the best possible services for
Americans who are arrested or otherwise harmed during overseas
travel. My Administration will continue to respond to each and
every case, quickly and thoroughly.
Sincerely,
Biu
The Honorable Sander M. Levin
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515-3307
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
August 24, 1996
Dear Tom:
Thank you for your letter concerning the case of Mrs. Binh Tran
and the need to protect American citizens arrested abroad. The
task of helping Americans who are arrested overseas is one of the
most important responsibilities of the State Department and our
embassies. We are committed to fulfilling this responsibility,
which includes periodic visits by consular officers, monitoring
emergency dietary and medical needs and acting as a liaison with
family members. This is true whether the American is arrested in
Vietnam or elsewhere.
Mrs. Tran was arrested in Ho Chi Minh City by the Vietnamese
authorities in October 1993 on charges of tax evasion on the
export of cigarettes. In June 1995, she was sentenced to four
years imprisonment and a $182, fine. On April 24, 1996, she
was released following a request by the U.S. Embassy based on her
poor health. She has not been permitted to leave Vietnam pending
payment of the fine. We have sent a letter to the local court on
her behalf and have raised her case with the Vietnamese Foreign
Ministry, most recently in late July. We are urging the
Vietnamese to allow Mrs. Tran to return to the United States on
her own recognizance and, at a minimum, ensure she is not sent
back to jail while the case is being reviewed by the Foreign
Ministry. We will continue to pursue this case with the Hanoi
government.
You mentioned ten other U.S. citizens or lawful residents who may
be imprisoned in Vietnam. We are aware of only five. In each of
these cases, our consular officers visited the imprisoned
individuals, most recently in April and August, and are doing
their utmost to protect each against possible abuses.
Anthony Lake, my National Security Advisor, raised the issue of
human rights protections during his July visit to Vietnam. You
can be sure we will continue our dialogue on human rights issues
and press for Vietnam's adherence to international norms of human
rights protection and expression of political views.
2
I share your interest in providing the best possible services for
Americans who are arrested or otherwise harmed during overseas
travel. My Administration will continue to respond to each and
every case, quickly and thoroughly.
Sincerely,
Biu
The Honorable Tom Lantos
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515-1402
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
August 24, 1996
Dear Representative Cunningham:
Thank you for your letter concerning the case of Mrs. Binh Tran
and the need to protect American citizens arrested abroad. The
task of helping Americans who are arrested overseas is one of the
most important responsibilities of the State Department and our
embassies. We are committed to fulfilling this responsibility,
which includes periodic visits by consular officers, monitoring
emergency dietary and medical needs and acting as a liaison with
family members. This is true whether the American is arrested in
Vietnam or elsewhere.
Mrs. Tran was arrested in Ho Chi Minh City by the Vietnamese
authorities in October 1993 on charges of tax evasion on the
export of cigarettes. In June 1995, she was sentenced to four
years imprisonment and a $182, 000 fine. On April 24, 1996, she
was released following a request by the U.S. Embassy based on her
poor health. She has not been permitted to leave Vietnam pending
payment of the fine. We have sent a letter to the local court on
her behalf and have raised her case with the Vietnamese Foreign
Ministry, most recently in late July. We are urging the
Vietnamese to allow Mrs. Tran to return to the United States on
her own recognizance and, at a minimum, ensure she is not sent
back to jail while the case is being reviewed by the Foreign
Ministry. We will continue to pursue this case with the Hanoi
government.
You mentioned ten other U.S. citizens or lawful residents who may
be imprisoned in Vietnam. We are aware of only five. In each of
these cases, our consular officers visited the imprisoned
individuals, most recently in April and August, and are doing
their utmost to protect each against possible abuses.
Anthony Lake, my National Security Advisor, raised the issue of
human rights protections during his July visit to Vietnam. You
can be sure we will continue our dialogue on human rights issues
and press for Vietnam's adherence to international norms of human
rights protection and expression of political views.
2
I share your interest in providing the best possible services for
Americans who are arrested or otherwise harmed during overseas
travel. My Administration will continue to respond to each and
every case, quickly and thoroughly.
Sincerely,
Biu Crinton
The Honorable Randy 'Duke' Cunningham
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515-2003
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
August 24, 1996
Dear Howard:
Thank you for your letter concerning the case of Mrs. Binh Tran
and the need to protect American citizens arrested abroad. The
task of helping Americans who are arrested overseas is one of the
most important responsibilities of the State Department and our
embassies. We are committed to fulfilling this responsibility,
which includes periodic visits by consular officers, monitoring
emergency dietary and medical needs and acting as a liaison with
family members. This is true whether the American is arrested in
Vietnam or elsewhere.
Mrs. Tran was arrested in Ho Chi Minh City by the Vietnamese
authorities in October 1993 on charges of tax evasion on the
export of cigarettes. In June 1995, she was sentenced to four
years imprisonment and a $182,000 fine. On April 24, 1996, she
was released following a request by the U.S. Embassy based on her
poor health. She has not been permitted to leave Vietnam pending
payment of the fine. We have sent a letter to the local court on
her behalf and have raised her case with the Vietnamese Foreign
Ministry, most recently in late July. We are urging the
Vietnamese to allow Mrs. Tran to return to the United States on
her own recognizance and, at a minimum, ensure she is not sent
back to jail while the case is being reviewed by the Foreign
Ministry. We will continue to pursue this case with the Hanoi
government.
You mentioned ten other U.S. citizens or lawful residents who may
be imprisoned in Vietnam. We are aware of only five. In each of
these cases, our consular officers visited the imprisoned
individuals, most recently in April and August, and are doing
their utmost to protect each against possible abuses.
Anthony Lake, my National Security Advisor, raised the issue of
human rights protections during his July visit to Vietnam. You
can be sure we will continue our dialogue on human rights issues
and press for Vietnam's adherence to international norms of human
rights protection and expression of political views.
2
I share your interest in providing the best possible services for
Americans who are arrested or otherwise harmed during overseas
travel. My Administration will continue to respond to each and
every case, quickly and thoroughly.
Sincerely,
Biu
The Honorable Howard L. Berman
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515-0531
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
August 24, 1996
Dear Earl:
Thank you for your letter concerning the case of Mrs. Binh Tran
and the need to protect American citizens arrested abroad. The
task of helping Americans who are arrested overseas is one of the
most important responsibilities of the State Department and our
embassies. We are committed to fulfilling this responsibility,
which includes periodic visits by consular officers, monitoring
emergency dietary and medical needs and acting as a liaison with
family members. This is true whether the American 1S arrested in
Vietnam or elsewhere.
Mrs. Tran was arrested in Ho Chi Minh City by the Vietnamese
authorities in October 1993 on charges of tax evasion on the
export of cigarettes. In June 1995, she was sentenced to four
years imprisonment and a $182, fine. On April 24, 1996, she
was released following a request by the U.S. Embassy based on her
poor health. She has not been permitted to leave Vietnam pending
payment of the fine. We have sent a letter to the local court on
her behalf and have raised her case with the Vietnamese Foreign
Ministry, most recently in late July. We are urging the
Vietnamese to allow Mrs. Tran to return to the United States on
her own recognizance and, at a minimum, ensure she is not sent
back to jail while the case is being reviewed by the Foreign
Ministry. We will continue to pursue this case with the Hanoi
government.
You mentioned ten other U.S. citizens or lawful residents who may
be imprisoned in Vietnam. We are aware of only five. In each of
these cases, our consular officers visited the imprisoned
individuals, most recently in April and August, and are doing
their utmost to protect each against possible abuses.
Anthony Lake, my National Security Advisor, raised the issue of
human rights protections during his July visit to Vietnam. You
can be sure we will continue our dialogue on human rights issues
and press for Vietnam's adherence to international norms of human
rights protection and expression of political views.
2
I share your interest in providing the best possible services for
Americans who are arrested or otherwise harmed during overseas
travel. My Administration will continue to respond to each and
every case, quickly and thoroughly.
Sincerely,
Biu
The Honorable Earl F. Hilliard
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515-0107
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
August 24, 1996
Dear Representative Ehlers:
Thank you for your letter concerning the case of Mrs. Binh Tran
and the need to protect American citizens arrested abroad. The
task of helping Americans who are arrested overseas is one of the
most important responsibilities of the State Department and our
embassies. We are committed to fulfilling this responsibility,
which includes periodic visits by consular officers, monitoring
emergency dietary and medical needs and acting as a liaison with
family members. This is true whether the American is arrested in
Vietnam or elsewhere.
Mrs. Tran was arrested in Ho Chi Minh City by the Vietnamese
authorities in October 1993 on charges of tax evasion on the
export of cigarettes. In June 1995, she was sentenced to four
years imprisonment and a $182,000 fine. On April 24, 1996, she
was released following a request by the U.S. Embassy based on her
poor health. She has not been permitted to leave Vietnam pending
payment of the fine. We have sent a letter to the local court on
her behalf and have raised her case with the Vietnamese Foreign
Ministry, most recently in late July. We are urging the
Vietnamese to allow Mrs. Tran to return to the United States on
her own recognizance and, at a minimum, ensure she is not sent
back to jail while the case is being reviewed by the Foreign
Ministry. We will continue to pursue this case with the Hanoi
government.
You mentioned ten other U.S. citizens or lawful residents who may
be imprisoned in Vietnam. We are aware of only five. In each of
these cases, our consular officers visited the imprisoned
individuals, most recently in April and August, and are doing
their utmost to protect each against possible abuses.
Anthony Lake, my National Security Advisor, raised the issue of
human rights protections during his July visit to Vietnam. You
can be sure we will continue our dialogue on human rights issues
and press for Vietnam's adherence to international norms of human
rights protection and expression of political views.
2
I share your interest in providing the best possible services for
Americans who are arrested or otherwise harmed during overseas
travel. My Administration will continue to respond to each and
every case, quickly and thoroughly.
Sincerely,
Biu Crinton
The Honorable Vernon, J. Ehlers
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515-2205
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
ID 9605597
REFERRAL
DATE: 27 AUG 96
MEMORANDUM FOR: WH STRIPPING DESK
DOCUMENT DESCRIPTION:
TO: BERMAN, HOWARD L
SOURCE: PRESIDENT
DATE: 24 AUG 96
SUBJ: LTR RE CASE OF BINH TRAN & NEED TO PROTECT AMERICAN CITIZENS
ABROAD
REQUIRED ACTION: FOR DISPATCH
DUEDATE: 28 AUG 96
COMMENT:
FOR
JOHN W. FICKLIN
NSC RECORDS MANAGEMENT OFFICE
Millison, Cathy L.
5597
From:
Millison, Cathy L.
To:
@ASIA - Asian Affairs
Cc:
/R, Record at A1; @CROSS - Cross Hatches
Subject:
#5597-Congressional Letter [UNCLASSIFIED]
Date:
Monday, August 26, 1996 10:18AM
Package #5597 has been signed by the President. However, the additional letters were not prepared before
the package went to the President. I will send you a copy of the signed package and diskette. Please
prepare the additional letters and labels and return them to our office along with the diskette as soon as
possible.
Thanks.
Page 1
5597
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
96 AUG 23 P8:44
August 23, 1996
ACTION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
ANTHONY LAKE
JOHN HILLEY
IN
SUBJECT:
Congressional Letter on Vietnam Human Rights
Issues
Purpose
To reply to Congressional correspondence concerning the issuance
of an exit visa for Binh Tran and other issues related to human
rights practices.
Background
Several Representatives wrote you urging our intervention on
behalf of Mrs. Binh Tran in her efforts to secure an exit visa
from Vietnam. The letter also urges the Administration to
condition further "normalization" of our relations with Vietnam
on the immediate release of all prisoners and improvements in
human rights practices.
The proposed reply reviews the Binh Tran case and reports on our
efforts to address similar cases, as well as broader human rights
issues.
RECOMMENDATION
That you sign the letters at Tab A.
Attachments
Tab A Letters to Congress
Tab B Incoming Correspondence
Signed 8/24/96
CC: Vice President
Chief of Staff
1183073
,
)
5597
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20504
August 15, 1996
ACTION
MEMORANDUM FOR ANTHONY LAKE
FROM:
SANDRA J. KRISTOFF
sik
SUBJECT:
Congressional Letter on Vietnam
Several Representatives wrote the President urging that he
intervene on behalf of Mrs. Binh Tran in her efforts to secure an
exit visa from Vietnam. The letter also urges the Administration
to condition further "normalization" of our relations with
Vietnam on the immediate release of all prisoners and
improvements in human rights practices.
The proposed reply reviews the Binh Tran case and reports on our
efforts to address similar cases as well as broader human rights
issues.
Concurrence by:
HER Schwartz, Alan Kreczko, 145 Bill Danvers
for
RECOMMENDATION
That you sign the memo to the President at Tab I.
Attachments
Tab I Memo to the President
Tab A Letters to Members
Tab B Incoming Correspondence
5597
Congress of the United States
house of Representatives
Mashington, DC 20515 36 AUG 12 P2 : 02
August 6, 1996
Honorable William J. Clinton
President of the United States
The White House
Dear Mr. President:
We are writing to urge that you take immediate action to persuade the Socialist Republic of
Vietnam (SRV) to allow the immediate departure from Vietnam of Mrs. Binh Tran, a United
States citizen.
Mrs. Tran was imprisoned in October 1993 on charges of tax evasion. She has steadfastly
maintained her innocence and has pursued all available legal remedies. According to her
family, the charges were the result of a business agreement that did not work out to the
satisfaction of SRV officials. Her family also reports that at the time of her imprisonment,
SRV officials demanded $15,000 for her release, but that she requested the family not
comply with this demand. She was subsequently sentenced to four years in prison and a fine
of $180,000. Eventually, the family did pay the requested $15,000, and she was released in
October 1995. Although an appellate court has indicated that Mrs. Tran should be able to
return to the United States pending further proceedings in her case, the SRV has refused to
give her an exit permit.
At the time of Mrs. Tran's imprisonment she was two months pregnant. She lost her baby
after being denied medical attention in prison. Among the reasons for her urgent request to
return to the United States is her desire to receive medical attention here.
On June 6, Mrs. Tran received a notice that her fine had been increased to $300,000, and
that she would be re-imprisoned if she did not pay the entire amount.
There are currently at least ten United States citizens and lawful permanent residents
imprisoned in Vietnam. Without pre-judging the merits of the case, we believe it is essential
for United States diplomats in countries that are known to commit serious human rights
violations to recognize that such violations are frequently perpetrated under the cover of
legal process. When there is reason to believe that a United States citizen charged with a
crime may be guilty only of displeasing a foreign government or official, the United States
must take the strongest possible action to secure the release of our citizen and the protection
Honorable William J. Clinton
August 6, 1996
Page two
of his or her rights. We urge you to make it clear to the SRV that the immediate granting of
an exit visa to Mrs. Tran, and the release of all unjustly imprisoned United States citizens -
including human rights activists, religious leaders, and other persons of humanitarian interest
to the United States - are essential to the continuation of normal relations between our two
countries.
We look forward to your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Elnaya Ed Royce
John Porter
Sands lei
Sander Levin
John W olver Oloh
V. J.Ell
?
alland
Randy "whe
Randy Cunningham
Lugille Roybal - Allard
1rm Lantos
Honerd Berman Howard Berman
Tom Lantos
Honorable William J. Clinton
August 6, 1996
Page three
?
? Hilliard
Chin Smith
Cyne M ≤ Kinney
Chris Smith
cynthia McKinney
Zae Loff Zoe Lofgren
5597
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
August 13, 1996
MEMORANDUM FOR ANDREW SENS
FROM:
SUSAN BROPHY
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL CORRESPONDENCE
Attached are copies of correspondence sent to the President by
members of Congress. Since these letters relate to national
security issues, I would appreciate your assistance in drafting
responses.
Thank you very much for your assistance. If you have any
questions, please feel free to call Chris Walker at x67500.
The following is a brief description of each letter:
1) Rep. Patricia Schroeder (D-CO), on behalf of several
others concerning Presidential clemency for Richard
Johnson;
2) Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) and 13
others, concerning Mrs. Binh Tran's desire to leave
Vietnam;
3) Rep. Patricia Schroeder (D-CO), on behalf of several
others concerning Presidential clemency for Richard
Johnson;
4) Rep. Sam Gejdenson (D-CT), concerning exportability of
U.S. software and hardware with DES-level strength
encryption;
5) Sen. Don Nickles (R-OK), concerning a presidential
greetings regarding the 900th anniversary of the First
Crusade; and
6) Sen. Al D'Amato (R-NY), concerning exports of U.S. dairy
products to Canada.
Enclosures