Mr Dung made the statement at a press briefing in Hanoi on July 9 in response to news that a group of US Senators had demanded the release of Ly.

Ly’s trial took place publicly and all his rights were guaranteed in court according to the law, Dung said, adding that any release must be considered  under law.

He insisted that the Vietnamese State respects all citizens’ right to freedom and democracy and creates favourable conditions for them to exercise their rights. At the same time, it will firmly deal with all unlawful activities undermining the country’s security, order and stability. 

Mr Dung said Vietnam will provide full information about Ly to the US Senators.