Of the total, 5,313 inmates have performed well during their prison terms and the remaining 39 inmates whose sentences are either delayed or suspended, have met all criteria for parole on this occasion.

The foreign inmates include two Chinese, a Canadian, a Dutch, an American and a Taiwanese.

36-year-old Pham Hong Son, who was arrested on March 26, 2003 on charge of violating the Vietnamese laws, will also be released on parole this time after serving the imprisonment sentence. However, he will be under house arrest in his locality for three years.

Speaking at the press briefing, Senior Lieutenant General Le The Tiem, deputy Minister of Public Security, said those who are eligible for the amnesty strictly followed rules and regulations at detention camps, and achieved good results in their study and work. They did not commit serious offences, particularly against national security, nor take part in any organised crimes.   

Nguyen Van Bich, deputy head of the Presidential Office said the special amnesty is conducted in a lawful, open and democratic manner. After the amnesty, the released inmates will be held by local administrations to stabilise their lives and early reintegrate into the community.
The press conference was attended by domestic and foreign reporters.