Congressman Eni Falemavaega of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs has released a statement commending Vietnam’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Report which was approved by the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on February 8.

In his April 7 statement, Falemavaega hailed Vietnam’s human rights achievements in the report, including freedom of the press, speech, association and religion, as well as ensuring the right of prisoners.

He acknowledged Vietnam’s efforts in international cooperation on human rights, including its annual dialogue with the US and the European Union.

He noted exercising such rights and freedoms is reflected through an increase in the number of publications and radio and TV channels in Vietnam, stressing the right to establish associations has been enshrined in Vietnam’s Constitution and protected by law.

Falemavaega recalled his visits to Vietnam where he attended masses at different places of worship and noted Vietnam facilitates religious activity and protects religious organisations according to the law.

He said Vietnam has also made achievements in economics, health care, education, gender equality, and other areas.

The same day, the House of Representatives issued the Congressional Record acknowledging Falemavaega’s statement.

Falemavaega handed over the Congressional Record to Vietnamese ambassador to the US Nguyen Quoc Cuong.

Cuong reiterated Vietnam’s consistent policy of safeguarding and promoting fundamental human rights, as well as its efforts in the field.

VOV/VNN