PRESS RELEASE

February 15, 2008

Statement by United States Ambassador Michael W. Michalak On the Death of Hoang Minh Chinh

I was saddened to learn of the death of Hoang Minh Chinh and would like to express my deepest condolences to his family.Hoang Minh Chinh was a true patriot and proud Vietnamese.I had the honor of meeting him in December and was able to express my respect for his lifetime of effort on behalf of his beloved country and its people.

Hoang Minh Chinh battled the cancer that eventually took his life with the same dignity and courage with which he fought for the rights of all Vietnamese.A key leader in Vietnam’s struggle for independence, he continued that struggle throughout his life to have the voices of his fellow citizens heard. It is my profound hope that his legacy will live on and bear witness to Hoang Minh Chinh's undying love and commitment to the people of Vietnam.