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./.