(VOVworld)- Head of Vietnam’s Permanent Mission to the UN in Geneva Ambassador Nguyen Trung Thanh says Vietnam respects and guarantees citizens’ fundamental rights, including the right to freedom of meeting and expression, in line with its 2013 Constitution and international norms on human rights.

Answering reporters’ questions about the UN High Commission for Human Rights’ statement on May 13^th, the Vietnamese diplomat refuted the statement, saying it’s inaccurate, biased and unverified. He added international conventions, particularly the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights stipulates that individuals’ rights to freedom should be exercised in accordance with laws and without effecting social security, public order, ethics and health of the community and other individuals’ rights and interests. Therefore, necessary measures taken are in line with Vietnamese laws and international norms to ensure traffic order, security and citizens’ safety, especially the elderly, women and children. Acts of inciting violence and causing disorder affecting people’s lives should be prevented in accordance with law and for the common interests of the community.