National Assembly delegation visits U.S.

A delegation of Vietnam's National Assembly External Relations committee has been touring the U.S. from Nov. 30-Dec. 19, led by its vice chairperson Ton Nu Thi Ninh. In a Dec. 9 press conference, Ms. Ninh defended Vietnam's human rights record, as well as its denial of a visa to Democratic Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez, who has been outspoken in protesting the suppression of dissidents in Vietnam. Ms. Ninh claimed the U.S. lacks objective and true information on Vietnam. She said Ms. Sanchez is "an exceptional case" because her visit "will not serve the promotion of bilateral relations. It will only comply with the requests of some voters who have voiced support for her." (Voice of Vietnam, Dec. 12)