The freedom of the press is a basic civil right. However, the implementation of this right must comply with legal regulations to ensure the liberties of one party do not infringe those of another, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung said.

The revised Constitution of Vietnam, which was recently adopted, guarantees freedom of the press, PM Dung told members of the Asia News Network (ANN) during a reception in Hanoi on September 18.

He said he hoped the guests would share their experiences in providing accurate, prompt and objective news for the common goal of cooperation, peace, friendship and development.

Responding to regional concerns of the press, PM Dung said Vietnam is actively supporting ASEAN members to build the ASEAN Community (AC) by 2015.

The establishment of the AC poses opportunities and challenges for Vietnam, particularly with regard to improving competitiveness. The country is therefore taking all the necessary measures to secure rapid and sustainable growth, including institutional reform and human resources development.

Presenting Vietnam’s position on the East Sea issues, the Government leader described peace, stability, security, and navigation and aviation safety as common concerns for ASEAN and the region, as well as beyond.

The bloc’s stance on these issues is clearly manifested in ASEAN’s Six Points Principles on the East Sea which requires all involved parties to abide by international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) and create a Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC).

ANN was officially established in March 1999, with 21 members in 19 countries.

ANN’s goal is to reflect impartially what is going on in its members’ countries, stated ANN President Pana Janviroj.-VNA