Deputy spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang

At the regular press briefing in Hanoi on Thursday, Hang said the United States’ inclusion of Vietnam in its special watch list for alleged engagement in and tolerance of religious freedom violations was a decision based on an “unobjective assessment” and incorrect information. 

"Vietnam's consistent policy is to respect and ensure human rights and the freedom of religion and belief. This was established in the 2013 Constitution and relevant legal documents and has been ensured and respected in practice. Vietnam has consistently improved the legal system and policies on religion and belief. Its efforts and achievements in ensuring freedom of religion and belief has been widely acknowledged by the international community," said Hang.

She added the US’ placing of Vietnam on a special watch list regarding religious freedom is based on the unobjective assessment and factually incorrect information regarding the situation of religious and belief freedom in Vietnam.”

She said Vietnam was ready to discuss with the US issues of mutual interest on the basis of openness, candidness and mutual respect, contributing to the strengthening of the comprehensive partnership between the two countries.