Vietnam voices deep concern over US indictment against Cuban General Raúl Castro

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang made the remarks while responding to reporters’ questions about Vietnam’s reaction to allegations made by the U.S. Department of Justice against General Castro.

“Vietnam is deeply concerned about the judicial measure taken by the U.S. Department of Justice in issuing a criminal indictment against Raúl Castro, former first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba and former president of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Cuba,” Hang said.

She said Vietnam calls for constructive dialogue based on respect for international law, the United Nations Charter, national independence and sovereignty, and the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of countries.

Hang also reaffirmed Vietnam’s strong solidarity and longstanding friendship with the Cuban people.

She added that Vietnam once again urged the implementation of United Nations General Assembly resolutions calling for the lifting of unilateral embargoes and sanctions against Cuba.

Earlier, on May 20, the U.S. announced a criminal indictment against General Raúl Castro, the younger brother of late Cuban leader Fidel Castro, in connection with the 1996 shooting down of two civilian aircraft belonging to an anti-Cuban government group.

The U.S. embargo and sanctions imposed on Cuba since 1962 have caused numerous difficulties for the country over the past several decades.

Relations between the U.S. and Cuba have become increasingly strained since the U.S. intensified pressure on Cuba’s oil supplies earlier this year.

Vietnam and Cuba established diplomatic relations in December 1960, and ties between the two countries have long been regarded as a symbol of exemplary, steadfast, and sincere international solidarity.

Vietnam has repeatedly voiced support for United Nations General Assembly resolutions calling on the U.S. to end its embargo and sanctions on Cuba.