The State leader praised and thanked members of the delegation who had joined in numerous activities to support Vietnam during the war.

He said that Vietnam always respects human rights as large number of its people have scarified their lives for national independence – a foundation for the protection of human rights.

During the 4,000-year-old history, Vietnam’s 54 nationalities have always united to defend the nation, which is getting more imperative in the current situation when hostile forces are making every effort to sabotage the country, he stressed.

According to President Triet, Vietnam is home to various religions, churches and pagodas which are operating freely under the law.

He expressed his hope that the writers and poets would convey to the US public information on the life in Vietnam and the country’s development they have witnessed during the visit, helping strengthen the mutual understanding between the two peoples.

For their part, the US guests showed their deep sentiments towards Vietnam, saying more and more young American people want to study the Vietnamese culture.

The delegation’s head, poet Kevin, said he was moved when returning as a visitor to Vietnam, where he was a fighter during the war.

Kevin has visited Vietnam for many times after the war and written a number of poems and essays about the dignity and soul of the Vietnamese people. With his contributions, he received the Friendship Order from the Vietnamese State.

Over the past time, the William Joiner Centre has introduced many Vietnamese literary works to the US public, helping gradually portray the current Vietnamese culture and society and create good affections within the American society.