Spokesman for the Vietnam Foreign Ministry Le Hai Binh

Binh rejected reports that Vietnam and the Philippines were cooperating to rally supporters in ASEAN to put pressure on China. He elaborated: "I confirm that the information was groundless. We know that the just concluded ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting issued a separate statement on the East Sea issues. It shows solidarity, pro-activeness, high responsibility, and the deep concern of ASEAN countries for regional peace and stability."

Mr. Binh said that Vietnam extended a sincere thanks to nations, individuals, and organizations for raising their voices to protest China’s illegal action and support Vietnam’s legitimate request. He also thanked the domestic and foreign media for precise and objective reporting on the situation to expose China’s incursion.

Relating to clashes in the Binh Duong industrial zone and Vung Ang economic zone in Ha Tinh province, Binh said the people’s actions to show their patriotism and determination to defend national sovereignty were natural and appropriate. But their actions should be within the law and Vietnamese functional agencies had arrested some extremist protestors.“Activities to damage the assets of any foreign businesses, including Chinese businesses, were carried out by extremists. Their actions are strongly condemned by the State and Vietnamese people. The situation in localities has returned to normal. We confirm that we will apply all necessary measures to protect assets, people, and businesses legitimate rights and interests, including foreign businesses in Vietnam.”

Vietnam and the US have completed their 18^th session of bilateral human rights dialogue in Washington D.C. Foreign Ministry spokesman Le Hai Binh said on Thursday that during the two day meeting earlier this week, both exchanged issues of concern including religious freedom, freedom of speech, rights of workers, people with disabilities, state of law and cooperation in multilateral fora on human rights. Spokesman Le Hai Binh was speaking at a press briefing in Hanoi on Thursday: “Vietnam has offered more comprehensive and open information about its efforts, achievements and policies in human right protection. Vietnam is willing to join multilateral mechanisms on human rights, including the UN Human Rights Council, in which both countries are members. The dialogue upholds constructive, goodwill and mutual respectful mechanism to help both countries strengthen mutual understanding and narrow gaps in human right issues while promoting comprehensive partnership between Vietnam and the US.”