Phan Van Khai
Prime Minister of Vietnam
Thu Tuong Hoang Hoa Tham
Hanoi, Vietnam
19th August, 1999
Dear Prime Minister,
I was interested to read the press reports of your visit to Australia earlier this year when you met with the Prime Minister of this country Mr. John Howard.
I understand that Mr. Howard raised the issue of Human Rights with you during your talks. He gave no details to the press as to what those talks entailed. It is my fervent hope that he stressed the need for your Government to grant further amnesties to those who are held in custody for their political views.
I understand that Nguyen Thanh Giang, has been released on bail although he is confined to his place of residence. Would you please give earnest consideration to giving him his freedom without restriction.
It has come to my notice that General Tran Do has sought permission to publish a newspaper, a request which, so far, has been denied.
It has also come to my notice that the Venerable Thich Quang Do has been questioned by officials in Ho Chi Minh City and accused of anti-State activities.
You would be aware that the Venerable Thich Quang Do, a respected Buddhist leader has openly advocated religious freedom and democracy for Vietnam despite the fact that he has spent many years under detention or in prison. It seems that his demand for the release of the Most Venerable Thich Huyen Quang has caused concern for the Government, yet his demands are founded on basic human rights.
As a member of the Australian Human Rights Committee I ask that you give urgent consideration to the requests of General Do and the Venerable Thich Quang Do in their democratic right to free speech.
Yours faithfully,
Mark J. Posa
State Officer.