Vietnam PM pleased with Lanka's progress

Vietnamese Prime Minister Vietnam Nguyen Tan Dung said he was happy to see Sri Lanka progressing in the post-conflict era.

The Prime Minister who met Justice Minister Rauff Hakeem at his office in Vietnam on Wednesday, said he was particularly happy that the country was gradually transforming from conflict to peace.

Hakeem said certain countries need to refrain from bringing in country specific resolutions at Human Rights Forum. "Sri Lanka faced such a situation in Geneva at the UNHRC," the minister said. He said such resolutions are brought to circumvent the UN General Assembly and the Security Council.

The minister thanked the Prime Minister and said the country is gradually advancing towards peace, development and social integration.

Hakeem said the government defeated terrorism and protected territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Long term plans are underway to create a vibrant one nation, the minister said.

He said high level visits by dignitaries of both countries is a testimony of the growing bond between both countries.

The minister said both countries should also explore possibilities of trade, commerce and investment in the future. Hakeem also called on the Deputy of the People's Supreme Court and the President of the Vietnam Bar Council. The minister also paid his respects to President Ho Chi Ming at the Mausoleum in Hanoi. The Prime minister welcomed the support by Sri Lanka at international forums. He said the Vietnamese government would like to cooperate in the areas of education, culture, science and training.