General Vang Pao provided the Fact Finding Commission with a copy of a letter to Lao President Khamtay
Siphandone dated January 2, 2004.  In the letter Vang Pao wrote, "The people have suffered far too long.  It is time for peace and happiness, not war and fighting."  To accomplish this reconciliation on the part of all
political factions is necessary according to Vang Pao.  He included himself, Khamtay Siphandone, and
members of the communist government as those that need to reconcile.

Vang Pao wrote "Many years have gone by since the fighting started and many changes have happened in the world.  So I call upon you to put the differences of the past behind and to look towards the future.  As leaders we need to put the needs of the people above our own.  And we need to set aside personal differences so that the people and country can prosper."

He reminded President Khamtay Siphandone that the United States has reconciled and become friends with Japan and Germany.  Furthermore, the U.S. has good relations with China and even has improved relations with Vietnam.

Vang Pao wrote about his desire for peace for all peoples of Laos, Cambodia. "Today, I call upon all the people of good will to work for the "independence, freedom, and good fortune" of the peoples of Laos.  I will do my part, whatever it requires, to further this goal.  I am prepared to extend my hand and heart in friendship to stop the fighting and bring about peace, prosperity, and happiness in my homeland."

"I am prepared to meet with anyone to discuss how we can together bring about a better future for the people of Laos.  I ask that you and I meet, at your earliest opportunity, to discuss a " step by step" plan to end all fighting in Laos and prepare for a transition to a more compassionate and inclusive political system" wrote Vang Pao.

He concluded the letter with "We must turn from war to the tasks of peace - education, village development, investment, trade, commerce, - and live in cooperative harmony with each other."