2009 is Vietnam’s year of cultural diplomacy. We’re pleased to be working with Vietnamese colleagues, especially in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to ensure that the rest of the world has an accurate, up to date image of Vietnam. A dynamic, vibrant society with great tradition, culture and values and lots of growth potential. A society keen for contact with the outside world and wanting to develop its talent. A country which thrives on globalisation and which is a reliable international partner, especially on free trade. We want to work with the Vietnamese government to help the rest of the world, including investors and tourists, see what Vietnam has to offer. Vietnam has developed so impressively and we want the world to know this. We must dispel myths and false information and ensure the Vietnamese government gets credit for its success.

But some recent events have brought the wrong type of publicity and all the hard work done on promoting Vietnam’s image is likely to be dealt a serious blow. We are close partners of Vietnam, its government and people. It is the Vietnamese authorities to take the decisions they judge best for the country. It is not for international community to interfere in internal affairs. Anyone engaging in violence must be punished. And libel and defamation should be penalised appropriately. But people voicing their opinions in a peaceful fashion is a different matter. From our experience, it’s good for any society to discuss about future development. And the role of lawyers and journalists is very important in a society based upon the principles of rule of law and accountability. It's a good thing to have transparency, and a proper independent judicial process. I believe that for a society to develop there has to be a free flow of ideas and information, opportunities for debate. A self-confident society must be ready to listen to questions and suggestions for improvement. Without this the climate exists for impunity and corruption. Domestic talent may leave or fail to contribute to the development of society.

If Vietnam’s year of cultural diplomacy is to succeed, it must be based on strong foundations, including a credible commitment to the rule of law. Let’s have a solid and convincing brand to sell internationally.

Notes for Editors

See also ambassador's Vietnamese language blog.

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