Michael Michalak, who was nominated by President Bush on May 24 to replace Michael Marine as Ambassador to Vietnam, has testified to two key U.S. senators, Barbara Boxer (D- California) and James Webb (R – Virginia) that he will seek improved human relations performance by the current VN government after his expected confirmation by the Senate. In response to questions by Senator Boxer on the nature of the crackdown on human rights in Vietnam, Mr. Michalak suggested the U.S. State Dept. could implement current human rights dialogue and a “public diplomacy program to train investigative journalists.” The American Embassy in Hanoi has been following the Viet Weekly’s attacks and lies too. They provided me with an actual transcript of the press conference on April 6, 2007, which proves the pro-communist proclivity and the complete absence of education about the U.S. Constitution, rights and responsibilities of the press, by the Viet Weekly. Jean Libby, editor, VietAm Review   more »