On May 24, President Obama spoke in Hanoi about Unites States-Vietnam relations, examining relations and asking Vietnam to improve its human rights record.
In his speech, Obama stated that greater freedom for citizens can aid in economic prosperity, linking free speech to economic prosperity and establishing free speech as a human right. These remarks come a day after he lifted what was left of a five-decades-old arms sale embargo against Vietnam. Obama told reporters after the meeting, “Your people’s potential, in part, derives from their ability to express themselves and express new ideas, to try to right the wrongs that are taking place in society.” He also used his speech to attempt for closer ties between Hanoi and Washington.
“In one fell swoop, President Obama has jettisoned what remained of U.S. leverage to improve human rights in Vietnam—and basically gotten nothing for it,” stated Phil Robertson, deputy director of Human Rights Watch’s Asia division.
Obama congratulated Vietnam on its progress, noting growing infrastructure and technological changes, while citing shortcomings in the United States, such as income inequality and racial bias. He pointed out that the United States’ willingness to examine itself made the country stronger.
“As you pursue the future you want, I want you to know that the United States of America will be right there with you as your partner and as your friend.”
