U.S. lawmakers call for Viet Nam to focus on human rights reforms

A high-ranking congressional delegation last week praised Viet Nam’s economic progress, but called on the country to apply the same effort to human rights reform, The Associated Press reported on January 3.

“We think that freedom of individuals and free markets go together and complement one another,” said House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, who led the delegation.

According to Hoyer, the two sides discussed trade issues, the protection of intellectual property rights and relations with China.

As the article notes, “While relations between the two countries have grown closer in recent years, U.S. officials have continued to express concerns about human rights in Vietnam, which does not tolerate opposition to the ruling Communist party.”

“The economic dynamism of Vietnam will only be expanded by encouraging more individual rights among the population,” said House Minority Whip Roy Blunt (R-Mo.)

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