Vietnam urges exclusion from US religious freedom watch list
Foreign Ministry’s spokeswoman Pham Thu Hang has conveyed Vietnam's regret and urged the US not to include Vietnam in the Special Watch List for religious freedom.
Foreign Ministry’s spokeswoman Pham Thu Hang (Photo: VNA)
Hanoi (VNA) ⭕– ForeignMinistry’s spokeswoman Pham Thu Hang has conveyed Vietnam's regret and urgedthe US not to include Vietnam in the Special Watch List for religious freedom.
Shemade the statement in response to questions from reporters regarding reaction to the US decision to put Vietnam on the list, duringthe ministry’s regular press conference in Hanoi on January 11. Hangadded that Vietnam calls for objective evaluations based on accurate andcomprehensive information concerning the situation of religious and belief freedomin the country. "Vietnam pursues a consistent policy of respecting and ensuring human rights and citizenright to freedom of religion and belief, as clearly outlined in the 2013Constitution and Vietnam's legal system, as well as in practicalimplementation," the spokesperson stressed. Vietnam'sefforts and achievements in protecting human rights, including the right tofreedom of religion and belief, have been recognised by the internationalcommunity over the past years, she said. Vietnamis ready to discuss issues of shared concern with the US in an open,straightforward and mutual respect spirit, contributing to promoting the comprehensivestrategic partnership for peace, cooperation and sustainable developmentbetween the two countries, Hang added./.
The US’s decision to put Vietnam in the special watch list on religious freedom is based on unobjective assessment and inaccurate information regarding the situation of freedom of religion and belief in Vietnam, Foreign Ministry deputy spokeswoman Pham Thu Hang said at the ministry’s regular press briefing on December 15.
Vietnam pursues a consistent policy of respecting and ensuring people's freedom to belief and religion as well as the equality among religions, while promoting cultural and moral values and resources of religions for the country’s development, stated Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai.
The US Embassy wishes to cooperate with Vietnam to remove the Southeast Asian nation from the US’s special watch list on religious freedom, Ambassador Marc E. Knapper told Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Vu Chien Thang during their meeting in Hanoi on April 14.
A Vietnamese delegation paid a working visit to the US from October 10-22 during which Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Vu Chien Thang called on both sides to increase constructive dialogue to clarify religious issues and avoid misunderstandings that may impact bilateral relations.
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Lao Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane affirmed that the presence of Vietnamese press offices in Laos vividly demonstrates the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between the two nations, as the press is not only a means of communication but also an important bridge for spreading consciousness about the history, values, and strategic depth of the Laos – Vietnam relationship to the people of both countries and the international community.
The country is willing to participate in collective efforts to promote cooperation and mobilise resources to advance the current priority issues of developing countries, such as trade, investment, infrastructure connectivity, making the most of scientific and technological advances for development, and people-to-people exchanges, Hang said.
During the negotiations, the US highly evaluated Vietnam’s goodwill and efforts, affirmed its appreciation for the bilateral relationship, acknowledged Vietnam’s proposals and concerns, and considered these an important basis for continuing discussions and moving towards a final agreement.
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Foreign Ministry’s spokeswoman Pham Thu Hang (Photo: VNA) 
