The Honorable Hillary Clinton
Department of State
Secretary of State
2201 C Street, NW Room 7226
Washington, DC 20520
Dear Madam Secretary:
I am writing to express my concern regarding the Government of Vietnam’s detention fo democracy advocates Tran Khai Thanh Thuy, Do Ba Tan, Pham Thanh Nghien, and Le Thi Cong Nhan. There are reports that these Vietnamese activists have faced severe abuse, house arrests, and harsh prison sentences due to religious, political, and personal convictions. My constituents have contacted me about this very issue, explaining these prisoners have been unfairly detained for practicing universal freedoms. I share their concerns regarding the protection of peaceful expression, and I want to make certain that our government is raising human rights issues with the Government of Vietnam at every opportunity.
I respectfully ask that you raise these issues with Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung. We must urge Vietnam to honor its commitment to international human rights standards and respect the freedoms of its people.
Thank you in advance for your consideration of this request.
Sincerely,
John Culberson
Member of Congress