President Sang, who is also head of the Central Steering Committee for Judicial Reform, made the request while working with the VBF’s Standing Committee in Hanoi on January 12.

The State leader underlined the contributions of Vietnamese lawyers to protecting the State and people’s interests, as well as the country’s achievements.

The State’s sound decision to establish the VBF has helped uphold the role of Vietnamese lawyers, he said.

Mr Sang also pointed out shortcomings such as insufficient coordination between the VBF and provincial and municipal bar associations. In addition, many lawyers violate the law and moral principles.

He urged the federation to uphold the role of lawyers in order to minimize unjust punishments and protect not only the people’s rights, but also the principle of law, the regime, and the country.

In the current context of global integration, it is necessary to sharpen lawyers’ capacity and promote cooperation with other countries’ bar federations.

Since it was established two years ago, VBF has successfully united Vietnamese lawyers and served as a bridge connecting the Party, State, and society with lawyers. The federation has taken the initiative to contribute to the building and communication of laws.

In 2011, Vietnamese lawyers acted as counsels in more than 17,500 criminal cases to defend people’s legitimate rights and contribute to judicial reform, as well as the building of a socialist, law-governed state.

(VOV)