SINO-VIETNAM BORDER SITUATION

Created: 8/20/1979

OCR scan of the original document, errors are possible

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.lno-Vieticun Border Situation

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The Chinese have withdrawn most of!o divisions that they deployed to the bordertheir Vietnam Incursion. Theroops still deployed nearthan double their prewar deployment in thedown sharply fromtationedthe war. China's forces have been withdrawniecemeal fashion, however, and elements ofremain in the area, perhaps in anticipationfuture military requirement. Despiteincursions by Vietnam and the lock ofnegotiations with Vietnam, China has not yetany major strengthening of its forces

military posture near the borderhas been substantially improved since March. have gradually built up their, forces north1

of Hanoi tn moreroops, including many main line divisions and some units previously deployed inhese forces are,well armed and sufficiently strong to cope with any attack by Chinese'units currently deployed near the border. The Soviets have supported the buildup with deliveries of largo quantities of equipment and materiel.

nother Chinese invasion of Vietnam does; not; seem likely,in the near future. China has beenthe likelihoodecond invasion any time soon but apparently intends to maintain^pressureietnam and could quickly mobilize its Soireest ;

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became necessary to teachecond lesson. Despite the sharp reduction in their military presence near the border, the Chinese have succeeded:in tying down large numbers of Vietnamese troops and caused Vietnam to put itself onar footing. Vietnam's builduperious impact on its already hard pressec economy and;could result in major food shortages in the country later this year.

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Original document.

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