Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Lê Thị Thu Hằng at a press briefing on Thursday. — VNA/VNS Photo Văn Điệp

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam plans to maintain dialogue on human rights with certain countries and partners to strengthen mutual understanding, share experiences and open opportunities for bilateral relationships in human rights, said the foreign ministry spokesperson.

Asked about the country’s stance towards some partners’ concerns about Việt Nam’s promotion and protection of people’s rights recently, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Lê Thị Thu Hằng told a press briefing on Thursday that all mankind values human rights, but countries have different approaches and priorities due to differences in history, culture, political institutions and development level.

“This is a normal reality in international relations. It is important that we stay ready for co-operation and dialogue in the spirit of co-operation, construction and mutual respect,” Hằng said. “We would like to see an objective, comprehensive and impartial view on Việt Nam’s efforts and achievements in ensuring human rights from the international community.”

Speaking about crucial advancements the country has made in promoting human rights, the spokesperson said that in the coming time, Việt Nam would prioritise the continued reinforcing of the legal system so that people can better exercise basic rights of freedom in line with Constitution 2013 and Việt Nam’s international commitments; and promoting socio-economic development in order to improve conditions and resources for poverty reduction and to improve the spiritual and material life of people.   

Hằng also mentioned priorities include improving access to social welfares and education, enhancing education in human rights to raise people’s awareness and law enforcement capacity in this regard. She also pledged to reduce barriers to women’s empowerment.

“Continued promotion of gender equality is an essential element to build up a strong human resource as well as to improve the quality of life of each individual, family and the whole society,” she said.

On the same day, the foreign ministry published the book entitled “Protecting and Promoting Human Rights in Việt Nam” in Vietnamese, English and French. The publication follows the foreign ministry’s book “Achievements in Protecting and Promoting Human Rights in Việt Nam” published in 2005.

The book will provide updated information on laws, policies, efforts and achievements the country has made in the field of human rights as well as challenges and priorities to enhance human rights in Việt Nam.

The spokesperson announced that Prime Minister Nguyễn Xuân Phúc and his spouse will attend the ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit and the 69th anniversary of the Republic Day in India from January 24-26 at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

She also said that Deputy Prime Minister Vương Đình Huệ will attend the annual World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, from January 22 to 25 and visit Portugal from January 26 to 28. — VNS