The annual human rights report by the US department of state, released on 12/8, fails to reflect Vietnam's achievements and progress in protecting human rights, according to foreign ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang. "The report continues to offer subjective assessments based on inaccurate and unverified information about the actual situation in Vietnam," Hang said at a press briefing today.

Two days earlier, the US department of state released its 2024 annual human rights report, which included a section on Vietnam covering freedom of speech, press, and religion.

Foreign ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang. Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Foreign ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang. Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Hang affirmed Vietnam's consistent policy of protecting and promoting human rights, placing people at the center as the driving force for national innovation and development. "The Vietnamese communist party and state are always striving to improve people's lives and rights, ensuring that no one is left behind. Fundamental human rights and freedoms are enshrined in the Vietnamese constitution, protected, and promoted by specific laws and implemented in practice," she said.

The spokesperson emphasized Vietnam's willingness to engage in open discussions with the US on existing differences in a constructive manner to enhance mutual understanding, thereby contributing positively to the development of the comprehensive strategic partnership for peace, cooperation, and sustainable development between Vietnam and the US.

Ngoc Anh - Nguyen Tien