The first instance trial brought against Giáo dục Việt Nam online newspaper by FLC Group, which has accused the newspaper of posting incorrect information. — Photo thanhnien.vn

HÀ NỘI — A court in Hà Nội has ruled in favour of FLC Group in a lawsuit against online Giáo dục Việt Nam (Viet Nam Education) newspaper.

In its verdict on Monday, Cầu Giấy District’s People’s Court asked the newspaper to immediately remove false information which it had posted. The newspaper was ordered to publish a correction and apology on mass media and notify the group.

The newspaper will also have to pay compensation of VNĐ14.9 million (US$643) to the group as well as VNĐ745,000 for court fees. The two parties have the right to appeal within 15 days of the date of sentencing.

Previously, FLC Group sued the online newspaper because it published an article relating to the debt between FLC and Hòa Bình Group, saying the group was in debt to the tune of hundreds of billions of Vietnamese đồng.

In the lawsuit, the FLC said that FLC Group and Hòa Bình Group are co-operating in business and executing normal economic contracts.

Regarding the existing debt, the two groups are negotiating to reach an agreement on the implementation of the contracts. There was no dispute between the two parties, FLC contended.

The posting of information by the newspaper was inaccurate, affecting the co-operation and image of the enterprise.

The newspaper said the article was accurate and objective. However, FLC Group did not agree and filed a lawsuit to the People's Court of Cầu Giấy District. –  VNS