Rep. Lofgren Introduces Resolution on Vietnamese Human Rights

Calls for Removal of Permanent Normal Trade Relations

Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose) today introduced a resolution, H.RES. 506, calling for Vietnam’s re-designation as a Country of Particular Concern and for the removal of Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) if Vietnam does not immediately and significantly improve its human rights record. Since Vietnam was removed as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) and was extended permanent normal trade relations in 2006, it has continued a brutal crackdown on peaceful human rights activists. The series of arrests made by the Vietnamese government includes Father Nguyen Van Ly, Nguyen Van Dai, Le Thi Cong Nhan, and other political prisoners and prisoners of conscience.

“The United States must use its full range of diplomatic and economic tools to pressure Vietnam into complying with the international standards it has already agreed to,” stated Rep. Zoe Lofgren. “The Vietnamese government must be held accountable for its brutal repression of its own people. Vietnam’s own constitution states that, ¥the citizen shall enjoy freedom of opinion and speech, freedom of the press, the right to be informed and the right to assemble, form associations and hold demonstrations in accordance with the provisions of the law.’ The U.S.’s desire to foster international trade should not override our national conscience. Vietnam’s abysmal human rights record cannot be ignored.”