“It is our State policy to constantly promote and protect human rights as this is an important factor for sustainable development towards the goal of building a rich people, a strong country and an equal, democratic and civilized society,” said Mr Dung in response to reporters’ question.

“The State has done its utmost to ensure the implementation of human rights by building and finalizing the legal system and undertaking concrete measures for economic, social and cultural development so that the people enjoy a better material and spiritual life in an equal, democratic and civilized society.”

In fact, he said, Vietnam has made many significant achievements in developing and facilitating its citizens’ rights to enjoy freedom in all fields. Vietnam’s current legal system fully reflects all human rights which are clearly stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other UN conventions on human rights to which Vietnam is a signatory.

Mr Dung confirmed that in Vietnam nobody is arrested for his or her political views or religious reasons and that only lawbreakers will be dealt with according to Vietnamese law.

In Vietnam, freedom of speech and freedom of the press and information are clearly illustrated by the strong development of the press in both form and content, including the development of the Internet. However, like other countries in the world, the dissemination of information which violates moral principles, traditional values and customs and other laws is not allowed in Vietnam.

“Due to different political regimes, development levels, cultural values and historical backgrounds, many countries, including Vietnam and the US, have different viewpoints and approaches to human rights issues. In our opinion, the two sides should increase contacts and dialogues to promote mutual understanding in the interest of the two countries’ people,” said the spokesperson.