Obama seeks peaceful settlement of South China Sea disputes

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1. Barack Obama urges improved human rights in Vietnam in wake of US arms deal

US President Barack Obama has called on Vietnam to allow greater freedoms for its citizens.

Mr Obama argued that better human rights would improve the communist country's economy, stability and regional power.

On his second full day in the south-east Asian nation, Mr Obama also met with activists and entrepreneurs as part of a push for closer ties with the fast-growing, strategically crucial country. The visit included the lifting of a half-century-old arms sale embargo.

In a speech at the National Convention Centre, Mr Obama sought to balance the need for a stronger relationship with Vietnam with efforts to hold its leadership to account over what activists call an abysmal treatment of government critics.

http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/world-news/barack-obama-urges-improved-human-rights-in-vietnam-in-wake-of-us-arms-deal-34742351.html