Quote Originally Posted by Pannonian
That the Vietnam War was a mistake was reinforced by a conversation he had with a former Vietnamese (foreign?) minister some years later. The North Vietnamese were no more fond of Chinese (their historical enemies) and Soviets than the Americans were, and would gladly have joined the anti-Soviet bloc if asked or encouraged. But there was no dialogue, and hence no understanding. That's probably the most important lesson of the film.

Always keep talking, even to your deadliest enemy, even in the deadliest fight. Your POVs may not be as far apart as you originally thought they were.

Contrast with the absolutist "no talking with terrorists" stance.
Do you have a link? I don't doubt you, that just sounds really interesting.

CR