Answering correspondents’ queries on Vietnam’s reaction to the press release, the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Nguyen Phuong Nga, on October 15, affirmed that “the Vietnamese State always respects its citizens’ rights to democracy, freedom of belief and religion, and provides favourable conditions for them to exercise these rights.” 

“However,” she stressed, “as in other countries, all violations of law, as well as any destruction of the country’s security, order and stability must be treated strictly and in accordance with law.” 

She went on to say that the prosecution and judgment of several violators of law by Vietnamese judiciary authorities is in conformity with the law of Vietnam, and in line with international conventions on human rights such as the 1966 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. 

Nga said the information relating to some individuals and incidents mentioned in the US Embassy’s press release is “completely incorrect”. 

“Regrettably, although favourable conditions were provided for obtaining objective information on Vietnam’s situation, the press release did not correctly reflect the reality in the country.” 

In conclusion, Nga said the requirements mentioned in the press release “interfered in Vietnam’s internal affairs”.