Vietnam denies suppressing religion

The government in Vietnam has angrily rejected allegations that it represses religious groups in the country.

The government denial follows the publication by the Far-Eastern Economic Review of documents which appear to be internal Communist party papers on the issue of religion.

They display concern about the spread of religion in Vietnam and accuse foreign elements of fostering religious organisations.

The authorities have refused to confirm or deny whether the documents are genuine but said suggestions that religious groups have been suppressed were slanderous distortions.

President Clinton is due to visit Vietnam later this week -- the first visit by a US president since American troops pulled out in 1975.

It's not clear what he'll say on the issue of religion but US officials say he may attend a church service.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service