~ Le Viêt Nam, aujourd'hui. ~
The Vietnam News

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Vietnam, U.S. talks resume to open direct flights between former foes

HANOI - Another round of aviation talks began Tuesday between Vietnam and the United States to try to work out sticking points the two sides have in opening up direct flights between the two countries.

The two countries met in Washington in June but were not able to reach an agreement. Local media have reported negotiations hung up over fifth freedom rights, which would allow passengers or cargo to switch flights during stopovers at major airport hubs. U.S. airlines have long lobbied for direct access to Vietnam. They can now only reach the Vietnamese market through code-sharing agreements with other carriers that operate in the country.

The American market accounts for 10 percent of Vietnam's aviation business, according to a Vietnam Airlines official. The U.S. delegation, led by Laura Faux-Gable, deputy director of the State Department's Office of Aviation Negotiations also includes representatives from the Department of Transportation. Several large American carriers also are part of the delegation along with cargo carriers and a representative from San Francisco International Airport.

The talks are expected to conclude Wednesday or Thursday.

The Associated Press - October 7, 2003