Myths and reality of Soviet influence on Vietnam (Discussion with Australian scholar on the origins of «Doi Moi» policy)

The paper presents main issues of discussions with famous Australian scholar on Vietnam Adam Fforde concerning the USSR/Russia impact on Communist party of Vietnam policy before and after the unification of the country and the myths on this subject widespread in the West. The analysis revealed the misunderstanding and intentional falsification by part of Western scholars and politicians of the real nature of Soviet-Vietnam relations and decision+making mechanisms in the CPV. The dialog partners made a conclusion about high reliance of internal and external policy of Vietnam leadership, though differed while assessing the degree of its independence and the origins of renovation phenomenon. Identifying a number of factors that determined the policy of «Doi Moi» and, above all, the transition to a market economy, the authors examine internal causes and external influences. Due to the first group they specify some movements on the ground aiming at the development of private initiative and entrepreneurship in 1970-80's, and the need to overcome the crisis of administrative+command system, the second groupe containes the features of Soviet economic assistance to the DRV and the SR of Vietnam.

Adam Fforde, Western myths, Soviet influence, Communist party of Vietnam, transition to a market economy, demonstration effect