10/09/2003 (Agence Europe) - On 9 September, the Italian Presidency made the following declaration: "the EU takes note of the decision made by the court of appeal of the Supreme Court of Vietnam on 26 August reducing the sentence of Mr Pham Hong Son. While any reduction to what the EU considers an excessive sentence is welcome, the EU remains deeply concerned that the facts for which .Mr Son was convicted appear to be a mere exercise of freedom of expression. The EU expects Vietnam to take determined action t towards improving the human rights situation and adherence to fundamental freedoms in compliance with international instruments to which Vietnam is a party. The EU looks forward to continuing a dialogue with the Vietnamese Government on theses issues.