100 STAT. 1783-297
PUBLIC LAW 99-500—OCT. 18, 1986
regularly scheduled free and fair elections and the establishment of democratic institutions; and (5) Nicaragua's refusal to negotiate in good faith for a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Central America based upon the comprehensive implementation of the September 1983 Contadora Document of Objectives and, in particular, its refusal to engage in a serious national dialogue with all elements of the Nicaraguan democratic opposition. (b) The United States will address the concerns described in subsection (a) through economic, political, and diplomatic measures (including efforts to secure the cooperation of other democratic nations in such measures), as well as through support for the Nicaraguan democratic resistance. In order to assure every opportunity for a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Central America, the United States will— (1) engage in bilateral discussions with the Government of Nicaragua with a view toward facilitating progress in achieving a peaceful resolution of the conflict, if the Government of Nicaragua simultaneously engages in a serious dialogue with representatives of all elements of the Nicaraguan democratic opposition; and (2) limit the types and amounts of assistance provided to the Nicaraguan democratic resistance and take other positive action in response to steps taken by the Government of Nicaragua toward meeting the concerns described in subsection (a). (c) The duration of bilateral discussions with the Government of Nicaragua and the implementation of additional measures under subsection (b) shall be determined, after consultation with the Congress, by reference to Nicaragua's actions in response to the concerns described in subsection (a). Particular regard will be paid to whether— (1) freedom of speech, assembly, religion, and political activity are being respected in Nicaragua and progress is being made toward the holding of regularly scheduled free and fair elections; (2) there has been a halt to the flow of arms and the introduction of foreign military personnel into Nicaragua, and a withdrawal of all foreign military personnel has begun; (3) a cease-fire with the Nicaraguan democratic resistance is ^„.; being respected; and (4) Nicaragua is refraining from acts of aggression, including support for insurgency and terrorism in other countries. (d) The actions by the United States under this title in response to the concerns described in subsection (a) are consistent with the right of the United States to defend itself and to assist its allies in accordance with international law and treaties in force. Such actions are directed, not to determine the form or composition of any government of Nicaragua, but to achieve a comprehensive and verifiable agreement among Central American countries, based upon the 1983 Contadora Document of Objectives, including internal reconciliation within Nicaragua based upon democratic principles, without the use of force by the United States. (e) Notwithstanding any other provision of this title, no member of the United States Armed Forces or employee of any department, agency, or other component of the United States Government may enter Nicaragua to provide military advice, training, or logistical support to paramilitary groups operating inside that country. Noth-
�
