FED: Protests as Vietnamese PM arrives

AAP General News (Australia)
04-01-1999
FED: Protests as Vietnamese PM arrives

CANBERRA, April 1 AAP - Vietnamese Prime Minister Phan Van Khai faced a mixed welcome today
when he flew into Canberra as part of his four-day trip to Australia.

Mr Khai was met by Prime Minister John Howard and Mrs Howard before moving to a podium
where he stood for the playing of the Vietnamese national anthem.

Mr Khai took a 19 gun salute and inspected defence force troops, before meeting other
dignitaries, including Opposition Leader Kim Beazley.

A small party of Vietnamese Australians waving Australian and Vietnamese flags was on hand
to greet Mr Khai.

But protesters waving the former South Vietnamese flag and carrying placards calling for
freedom, democracy and human rights in Vietnam lined the entrance to RAAF Base Fairbairn.

The official party left the airport via another route avoiding the protesters.

AAP sc/it

KEYWORD: VIETNAM AUST ARRIVE

1999 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.